Hair extensions are the talk of the town and to give you an insight into their roots, quite literally - we’re here with all that beauty intel.
A high pony, a thick braid, a perfectly “headbanded” Blair Waldorf mane and much more -- with luscious locks you can do it all. However, considering not all of us are blessed with those rich genetics, which is why going the artificial beauty route crops up; we’re talking about the world of extensions. Playing a pivotal part in this generation’s grooming requirements; we see those gorg nail extensions infiltrating our IG feeds or those thick manes, stylised to perfection on every glossy magazine page. However, while a scalp full of natural-looking extensions may be tempting to introduce to your dressing drawers, they too have their pros and cons. So, to comb through the world of hair extensions and to give your insight into all tangled questions especially, what are hair extensions, we’re here to talk about all things hair extensions. Cling on to know it ALL!
Hair Extensions Basics
Tempting to touch and sensational to look at, we’re here to shed light on - what hair extensions are. And let’s get it straight, they have a dark side too (not only one’s that match the shade of your tresses) - we’re talking about their setbacks. Such as, the extension you get your hands on may not match the texture of your natural locks, they tangle your hair (common red flag) or after some washes they lose their initial charm (I mean, the synthetic waves of curls eventually do open up!) Keeping these alarms in mind, we suggest buying only top quality extensions so you look up top - after all, why settle?
What are extensions made of?
Yes, just because everyone is using it doesn’t mean you don’t need to know what rests on your scalp! Information on what you consume and purchase should never take a backseat - and that’s exactly why we’re here, to allow you to drive your own decisions. So, before you get curious about the mane carouse; hair extensions - here are the starters. Hair extensions can either be made of real human hair or with synthetic blended fibres. These fibres are fine, plastic fibres that are manufactured to emulate real hair. However, human hair extensions look natural and have a certain shine that synthetic hair cannot recreate. Also, human hair extensions are easy to blend in with your real hair. So, depending on the amount you’re willing to invest in your extensions (human hair is obviously more expensive) and how caring you are ready to be, take your pick.
Types of hair extensions
For every type, there is a type
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.
Clip-on hair extensions
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.
Tape-in hair extensions
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.
Keratin hair extensions
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.
How to care for hair extensions?
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.
FAQs
You ask and we, untangle
Q1 How should I fasten my hair to avoid damaging my extensions?
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.
Q2 How often should I brush my hair when I have hair extensions on?
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.
Written by Anushka Shah on Sep 25, 2022