All Things Hair Extensions
Everything you might need to know before getting hair extensions
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What are Hair Extensions? Hair extensions is taking additional hair and adding it to your own hair creating lots of volume and/or length. This can be done using several different methods. I have extensive training and experience and use all the methods below because no one method fits everyone's needs. Hair Extensions come in both Human Hair and Synthetic Hair depending on your preference and lifestyle. I only use Hair Extensions that are made with some of the World's Finest Quality 100% Human Hair. For the most part, I only use synthetic hair for bright pops of fashion color.
1: Tape In : Creates a seamless look and feel using 1-2" wefts of hair. This is the quickest application method. However, the removal and re-installation can take a bit more time. This is a great method for adding peek-a-boo pops of color!
Tape in Hair extensions can be worn on the head for about 4-6 weeks between maintenance appointments. Although you can swim and shower in tape in extensions, it's important not to leave them wet. If you are one that tends to sweat a lot or go to the gym, tape ins may not work as well. The constant moisture will break down the glue and may cause slippage.
2: I-Tip / Beaded Extensions. 1/4 inch strands of hair are attached to your existing hair with small beads that are crimped to hold. This method leaves no residue and allows for a faster maintenance appointment then some other methods. This method alone or used in conjunction with sew in wefts allows me to use several colors for a more natural look.
Beaded extensions have very few limitations on how you can wear your hair or live your active lifestyle. The most important thing, to keep them from ratting or tangling, is to brush your hair thoroughly a minimum of two times per day.
I've found that the beads CAN slip over time and warn my clients that they may lose a few of the extensions between visits.
3: K-Tip / Heat Fusion: Using a heat tool a keratin wrap bonds the 1/4" hair strand to your hair.
Although you will get the same look and freedom with K-Tip as I-Tip, this method allows for very little slippage of the extensions.
This method alone or used in conjunction with sew in wefts allows me to use several colors for a more natural look.
The most important thing, to keep them from ratting or tangling, is to brush your hair thoroughly a minimum of two times per day.
While most extension methods allow you to use the same hair more than once, K-Tip extensions usually will need to be replaced every time you have them maintenance. Depending on the strength of your natural hair and how well the extensions are cared for at home, you can go 8-12 weeks between appointments with K-Tips.
4: Beaded row sewn in wefts: is currently the most popular method for those looking for Length and/or volume and allows for less contact points on the head. You can get great results with less time in the chair. Because, unlike I-Tip or K-Tip methods, you have way less contact with the scalp, there is less chance of ratting or skin irritation. There is also way less chance of breakage. Styling is easy and you can do all your normal active lifestyle things. Just be sure to be brushing your hair thoroughly at least twice per day.
5. Hand Tied Micro Point: These type of extensions are a very specialized technique that I offer. I take 2-3 SINGLE STRANDS of hair and knot them onto ONE strand of your hair to give it thickness. This is very time consuming but has a great result for those that are thinning on the top and do not want to wear a topper or wig. Most clients say that they don't even realize the hair is there other than the added thickness! The knot is so tiny, is barely noticeable.
6. Hair Prosthetics: This non-surgical hair replacement method is a very specialized technique that I offer. A hair piece is custom created for you and then attached to your head via one of several methods. The piece can be warn non-stop up to 4-5 weeks. With glue method installations, it is impossible to detect from your own hair! You can swim, shower etc with nothing showing. Once the piece is custom created for you it can be used over and over with proper care.
7. Hair Toppers: Hair toppers can be used daily and taken out each night, or can be used similar to a hair Prosthetic where it is attached via a beaded sew in method.
Hair toppers can be used in conjunction with other types of extensions to create length. Hair toppers are most commonly used to hide thinning on the crown.
8. Daily Wear Hair Halo: Hair Halos are great for adding Length and/or volume and can be installed and taken out at home in just a few minutes. These are a great option for Daily Wear or Special Occasions where you want the hair, but not the commitment!
9. Daily Wear Clip Ins: Hair Clip ins are great for adding Length and/or volume and can be installed and taken out at home in just a few minutes. These are great option for Daily Wear or Special Occasions where you want hair without the commitment! Unlike Hair Halos, the pieces can be cut to custom widths which gives you much more options for custom placement.
10. Hair Keratin Fibers: Keratin fibers are electrostatically charged, and the micro laser-cut bits of keratin that appear like microscopic hairs attach themselves to existing hair, even if it is very thin or sparse, to quickly thicken and fill it in a matter of seconds. Hair Fibers are sprinkled onto the hair similar to a powder, but because they are fibers they create a natural texture. Fibers are a great way to give a thicker look to thinning hair.
This will be my first time wearing Hair Extensions, what do I do?
First , with my help, decide which Extension application you prefer, as not everyone likes or uses the same method. Choosing the proper color is very important. Some people prefer to match the Stock Extensions to your own Hair color and others prefer getting the Extensions, and then coloring your own Hair to match the Extensions. I am also very experienced in custom coloring hair extensions to match your current hair. You also need to decide on the texture that will blend best with your own hair, in addition to the length you would like your Extensions to be. I require that you come in for an extension consultation prior to getting your extensions so that I can help you make these decisions prior to the application. I will order your custom extensions at your consultation and then set up a follow up appointment to install them.
How much will extensions cost me?
Naturally this question is best answered after a thorough consultation, because the cost of the extensions is based on how much hair is needed, and most importantly, the quality of the hair being used.
Most clients can expect the hair investment (cost to purchase extensions) to be anywhere from $500-2000* for quality extensions. This price does NOT include installing the extensions.
Upkeep (moving the extensions) will usually run about $250-$300* per visit.
*Please note that these prices are not a quote and are subject to change with each individual and method
What is Remy Hair?
Remy Hair, which may also be called Remi or Cuticle Hair is hair that is cut from one donor. It is the healthiest hair because it is is hand picked strand by strand to ensure that all cuticles remain aligned and intact. With proper care, Remy hair will stay soft and beautiful wash after wash.
Is it ok to Brush and use a Blow Dryer, Flat Iron and Curling Iron on my Extensions?
You can absolutely treat your new hair just as you would your own. Curl it, straighten it and most of all, enjoy it! I suggest washing your Extensions every 3rd day as the hair does not get the oils or dirt clinging to it as your own hair does. Deep wave and Curly Hair textures should not be brushed as it can get frizzy. It is best to use a wide tooth comb or your fingers to scrunch. (See my tips on curly hair)
How do I wash my Hair Extensions?
Wash and condition the hair in one direction, from top to bottom. Put shampoo/conditioner in your hands and run hair through your palms. Avoid washing hair upside down in the sink or scrunching on top of your head. It is suggested to use shampoos and conditioners that hydrate and add moisture. I always suggest Moroccan Oil Moisture Repair Shampoo and Conditioner.
What Products can I use?
You can use your favorite professional grade styling products, but be sure that the products are alcohol free as alcohol is a drying agent. In between shampoos, a leave in spray conditioner like 21 Benefits is great, especially on the ends.
Olapex is a great treatment for your hair extensions!
Can I color and perm my Hair Extensions?
Because the hair has already been processed with color and in some cases texture, I do not advise having any additional chemical processing. I do offer wavy textures to prevent having to perm the hair which is available in numerous colors. If you want to darken the hair, you can absolutely color the hair using any Amonia Free hair color, and it will come out beautifully. You never want to use Bleach or attempt to lighten the color, that is a no no!!
That being said, having a professional color or perm your extensions may be an option in some cases.
Can I have color done on my natural hair while wearing my Extensions?
I can definitely color your natural hair. Many clients come in for new growth touch ups while leaving the extensions in place. For an all over color, we would removed the extensions during the color service. For blondes, I prefer to do any toning services with the extensions in.
How long will my Hair Extensions last?
This is a very difficult question to answer, and it is a question that is frequently asked. There are so many factors to consider; hair quality, products used, climate, water, how often hair is washed, heating tools, and of course how you individually care for your hair.
I would like to say that, if taken care of properly, your extensions should last about 4-6 mos. Plan on a maintenance appointment to move the extensions up the hair shaft at about 4-6 weeks.
Higher quality extensions can last up to 24 months.
Will the Extensions damage my own hair?
Hair Extensions should not damage your hair if properly cared for and maintained. Upon removal of your Extensions, when you first brush out your own hair, it is not uncommon to have some hair build up in your brush. This is perfectly normal and will occur regardless of which Extension Application. I recommend brushing your hair thoroughly from scalp to ends with an extension safe brush and least twice a day.
Stay Beautiful! The Stylist formerly known as *Mickey*