Hair Extensions - The Basics

Hair Extensions have become increasingly popular over the past few years as a result of celebrities using them. It's a quick way to achieve the long hair look. Here we will be addressing some common questions and concerns about hair extensions.

First, we'll start with what, exactly are hair extensions?

Hair extensions are hairpieces that are attached either to your scalp or your natural hair. Hair extensions come in a variety of types, which include: human hair, animal hair and synthetic fibers.

Human hair is the most expensive and also looks the most natural. It is easier to get a good match with your own natural hair using human hair extensions. Additionally, human hair can stand up to the stress of coloring, washing and styling.

How does it come and how is it applied?

When purchasing human hair extensions, be aware that they come in various formats, but the most popular are strands and wefts. Here's a brief explanation:

• Strands: The strands format involves adding small sections of human hair to your natural hair.

• Wefts: The wefts format is where large clumps of human hair attached to the top of your hair.

• Other: There are also other ways to attach these hair extensions including weaving, braided, clamped, glued or fused. If you don't want the hair extensions all the time a good option is clip-on hair extensions.

  Clip-on hair extensions are very popular with young adults, there easy to use, you can take them in and out as much as you want and there affordable. They not only offer you extra length but also extra volume if your hair is fine. The hair is attached to very small clips; these clips are then clipped into your own hair between sections. The hair can be straightened, curled, styled in any way you want just like your normal hair so why wait for your hair to grow when you can choose when you want long hair.

Is hair format the only differentiation I should be aware of?

In addition to format, there are also different hair type classifications which include: Asian, European and hair from the Artic. Hair from the Artic is considered the best, as it hasn't been chemically treated. Hair extensions that come from the Artic is usually known as raw or virgin hair.

No matter which type of hair extension you choose, you need to care for them as if it were your normal hair. If you use clip-on extensions you should take them off at night. This will ensure that they will last longer. Human hair extensions on the other hand, will need to be washed like you would your normal hair as these extensions don't receive oil from your scalp you will need to wash, condition and moisturize the hair 2-3 times a week.

If you are thinking about getting hair extensions, seek professional help and advice. A professional will be able to help you decide the colour, type as well as the best attachment method for your extensions. Make your stylist aware of your budget because there the price ranges for hair extensions vary. Be sure to remain within your budget. It isn't worth going into unnecessary debt to purchase hair.

Additional Reading:

• Hair Extension Application Techniques
• Hair Extensions the Safe Way
• Hair Extensions 101 - Everything You Need To Know About Professional Hair Extensions

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jene Pedder is the Webmaster of Inanch Hair Design specializing in Hair Extensions.

Article Source: http://www.1888articles.com/author-jene-pedder-1268.html

Last Modified: Saturday, 01-Mar-2008 10:03:37 EST

Tidbits & Stuff was born on Thursday, March 9, 2006
© 2006, 2007, 2008 Felicia A. Williams

Contact Us | Writing Guidelines| Privacy Policy