The What, Why And How’s Of Hair Extensions – Here’s All You Need To Know

There are many different types of hair extensions, some are easy to attach, while some may take longer. So, take a read and understand the one that complements you and your maintenance levels.

I've always been inquisitive about this, what are tape-in extensions...but well, here's the answer (finally). If you ever see a hair expert with a glue gun, just know it's not for art and craft but for magic on the locks. We're referring to tape-in hair extensions. Yes, they are pre-taped and then taped or glued on either side of your real hair. These are attached using a heated tool that ensures the glue sticks. So much so, because of how firm the glue is, the process can take up to an hour - I mean, worth the wait right? While its firm hold can let you dance and spin, without the fear of the hair falling off, it also has its drawbacks. As your natural hair grows, these extensions can also fall lower and lower, looking unkempt. Also, the heat of the glue and the adhesive's texture can damage the protein of your hair and hence, hamper the quality.

You often may have wondered, what are clip-on extensions. And as the name suggests, clip-on extensions do what they say, they clip on - easy peasy. They have either a fabric or silicone base which has clips at intervals - and that conveniently grips each part of your scalp, making them feel firm near your roots. These clips are attached to the base and all you need to do is clip it on to your natural hair, near the roots. Wearing clip-on hair extensions will not take you more than 15 minutes - convenient right? Such extensions are chemical-free, do not involve any heat or pressure and are fuss-free.

The best hair extensions in town, these somewhat permanent hair extensions bring your hair back from the dead; a total lock saviour. Loved by several stylists and of course, women across the globe - this process uses ultrasound to bring back those mane-related complements. These hair extensions can lead to good hair days for 3-4 months at a stretch. These are attached using an ultrasound technology that turns the keratin from a solid to a liquid and back to a solid in just a second. Also, they don't take much time - just 2 hours! However, ladies, be careful, Keratin hair extensions can potentially damage your hair - especially if you leave them in for too long of a stretch of time, and if you never let your hair breathe and grow without the heavy weight of long extensions! So, know when to indulge and when to hold back.

I've always been inquisitive about this, what are tape-in extensions...but well, here's the answer (finally). If you ever see a hair expert with a glue gun, just know it's not for art and craft but for magic on the locks. We're referring to tape-in hair extensions. Yes, they are pre-taped and then taped or glued on either side of your real hair. These are attached using a heated tool that ensures the glue sticks. So much so, because of how firm the glue is, the process can take up to an hour - I mean, worth the wait right? While its firm hold can let you dance and spin, without the fear of the hair falling off, it also has its drawbacks. As your natural hair grows, these extensions can also fall lower and lower, looking unkempt. Also, the heat of the glue and the adhesive's texture can damage the protein of your hair and hence, hamper the quality.

The best hair extensions in town, these somewhat permanent hair extensions bring your hair back from the dead; a total lock saviour. Loved by several stylists and of course, women across the globe - this process uses ultrasound to bring back those mane-related complements. These hair extensions can lead to good hair days for 3-4 months at a stretch. These are attached using an ultrasound technology that turns the keratin from a solid to a liquid and back to a solid in just a second. Also, they don't take much time - just 2 hours! However, ladies, be careful, Keratin hair extensions can potentially damage your hair - especially if you leave them in for too long of a stretch of time, and if you never let your hair breathe and grow without the heavy weight of long extensions! So, know when to indulge and when to hold back.

Whether you're new to the world of extensions or have been a loyal member of the extension club for years, it's always worth familiarising yourself with the best habits to help your locks to last longer. There is nothing worse than matted, tangled extensions! We're here to fill you in on the top four tips that we swear by and a few more pro tips here. Number one, wash your hair with a good quality shampoo and conditioner - we suggest, nothing but Dove's Intense Repair Shampoo and Dove's Intense Damage Repair Hair Mask. Nourish them with these essential goodies to keep them clean and neat. Two, never sleep with wet extensions! Your locks are weakest when wet and sleeping when they are wet will lead to tangled and matted roots or extensions. Three, always brush with care. Using that unnecessary force can lead to breakage. And lastly, go slow with the heat. While you may want those poker straight locks - get it straight, your extensions may not appreciate that extra heat - which may therein, damage their quality and appearance. However, if you're keen to take the styling route - here's an engaging read.

You ask and we, untangle

Tie your hair back very loosely before going to bed. If you're looking for a quick and easy solution, putting your hair in a low ponytail with a silk scrunchie or spiral hair band is perfect. Alternatively, while it may take a little practice, a loose French braid is another excellent way to prevent tangling.

If you're looking for a precise recommendation, we'd always say first thing in the morning, before you go to bed, before washing and after washing.