Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are a way to test different hairstyles and textures before making a final decision on the type of hair desired. Although hair extensions have been worn throughout history, there have been many recent technological advances to improve the quality of hair extensions. With so many different methods to integrate hair extensions, they are affordable for just about everyone.

Function

The purpose of hair extensions is to add length and body to hair. Extending the hair can be done for a wide variety of reasons such as damaged hair, or simply for a special occasion. Hair extensions can add length to hair, allowing you to change the style and even the texture of your hair. If hair is thin, extensions will thicken hair and add motion to ordinarily lifeless hair. Hair extensions are often used to make wigs in addition to lengthening hair.

Features

Hair extensions come in a wide variety textures and colors to match your hair, or create a different style altogether. All manufacturers of hair extensions use a scale to denote the color of the extensions. Zero indicates the darkest black available and the colors lighten as the numbers go up. There are about six different textures of hair extensions available. Yaki hair extensions are incredibly straight, similar to the textures of Asian hair. The deep wave looks more like a spiral or ringlet, than an actual wave. Wet and wavy extensions have a natural wave that is exaggerated when hair is wet. European extensions are meant to mimic the natural straightness of European hair. Finally, there is the jheri curl extension, which looks similar to an afro rather than a jheri curl.

Types

Integrating extensions into hair can be done through several distinct methods. The most common method is sewing wefts of hair into cornrows. Your natural hair is braided, and the wefts connecting the hair are sewn into the cornrows. For hair extensions "on the go", there are clip-on hair extensions. Clip-on extensions attach to the weft by a snap clip. Using bonding glue to add hair extensions is quicker than sewing, but requires more precision to avoid scalp damage. The newest and costliest method of hair extension integration is the strand-by-strand method that uses adhesive glue sticks. The sticks are attached at the root end of extensions for a more natural look. The adhesive glue stick method comes with a special heat iron.

Warning

Integrating hair extensions can be a great way to wear a style temporarily, if done correctly. Professional application is recommended to avoid damage to hair or scalp. The bonding glue method for example, if not done correctly, can cause allergic reactions to the glue. Furthermore, applying adhesive glue directly to the scalp can lead to burning and peeling of scalp. When the time comes to remove hair extensions, seek professional help to prevent breaking ends, and losing hair. When done improperly, hair extensions can create long-lasting damage to your hair and scalp.

Benefits

Although there are many dangers associated with improperly integrated hair extensions, there are also many benefits. Professionally integrated hair extensions can help natural hair grow, depending on the method. Methods of hair extension integration that leaves much of your natural hair covered, like the sewing method, allow your hair to grow without the daily damage of heat and styling products. In addition, hair extensions allow you to experiment with different styles without making the commitment permanent.

Resources

• Extensive list of hair extension integration methods

[jennen]

on 2/24/2009 I am my hair and my hair is me... thank you for this article and you have done a good job of explaining Hair extensions... you get five stars