Adding hair extensions can be a transformative experience, offering not only additional length but also volume and richness to one’s natural hair.
Whether one desires a temporary change for a special event or a semi-permanent style upgrade, mastering the application of hair extensions opens up a world of styling possibilities.
It involves selecting the right type of extensions that blend well with the natural hair, both in color and texture.
The process begins with preparing one’s natural hair by ensuring it is clean, dry, and detangled to seamlessly accept the extensions.
Different installation methods cater to diverse needs, from clip-ins for casual users to more durable solutions like sew-ins or tape-ins for longer wear.
Proper installation is crucial for achieving a natural look and avoiding damage to the natural hair.
Integrating and styling the extensions to blend with one’s hair requires a gentle touch and the right styling tools to maintain the integrity of both the extensions and the natural hair. We have a guide for how to put in hair extensions. Read it and you will learn how to style your hair using extensions. No matter if you have short hair or long hair, extensions add a touch of style to your look.
Chapter Overview
Key Takeaways
- Hair extensions enhance style with added length and volume
- Selecting and preparing the right type of extensions is critical for a natural look
- Proper installation and maintenance ensure longevity and health of both extensions and natural hair
Choosing the Right Hair Extensions
Selecting the perfect hair extensions can be as crucial as finding the right pair of shoes for an outfit—they should match your natural features while fulfilling your style desires. Let’s find your perfect hair enhancement.
Assessing Hair Type and Texture
Finding hair extensions that harmonize with one’s natural hair is key.
People should look for extensions that match their own hair’s texture, whether that’s curly, straight, or wavy. This will ensure a seamless and natural blend.
For instance, fine hair typically pairs well with lighter extension types such as tape-ins, while coarser hair might hold up better with sew-ins or microlinks.
Identifying the Ideal Length and Volume
Extensions serve to add not only length but also volume, which means assessing how much oomph one wants to achieve.
It’s wise to aim for a length that isn’t drastically different from one’s natural hair unless they’re looking for a bold transformation.
For a balanced look, they should consider extensions that offer volume in line with the extension length—for example, someone with shoulder-length hair probably shouldn’t choose ultra-long extensions without sufficient volume to maintain proportion.
Selecting Between Synthetic and Human Hair
The debate between synthetic hair extensions and real human hair extensions narrows down to personal preference, desired longevity, and budget.
While synthetic hair can be more cost-effective, 100% real human hair extensions are typically more versatile as they can be styled with heat and tend to offer a more natural look.
Those prioritizing quality and durability may prefer human hair, ensuring it blends smoothly with their natural locks and lives up to their hair goals.
Preparing Your Natural Hair
Before getting those fabulous hair extensions in, one needs to ensure their natural hair is in the best possible state. This involves a thorough wash and condition, followed by proper drying and detangling, because clean and smooth hair is the perfect foundation for extensions.
Washing and Conditioning
To get started, one should first wash their hair with a clarifying shampoo.
This is especially important because it removes all the residue and oils that could cause extensions to slip if not thoroughly cleaned out.
However, for those with recently colored hair, it’s crucial to opt for a sulfate-free, mild clarifying shampoo to avoid stripping the color.
After shampooing, applying a hydrating conditioner aids in restoring moisture.
A good conditioner helps with the next step of detangling, which is essential for preventing any snags during the extension application.
- Steps for Washing and Conditioning:
- Wet hair thoroughly with warm water
- Apply clarifying shampoo and gently massage into the scalp
- Rinse shampoo completely out of the hair
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends
- Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes, then rinse
Drying and Detangling
After washing and conditioning, the hair should be gently patted dry with a towel—never rubbed, as this can cause frizz and damage.
One can either let their hair air dry, which is the gentlest option, or if using a blow dryer, keep it at a low heat setting.
Detangling is a breeze when done with the right tools.
A wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush should be used to gently comb through the hair, starting at the ends and gradually working up to the roots to avoid breakage.
- Guide to Drying and Detangling:
- Gently pat hair with a towel to remove excess water
- Decide between air drying or using a blow dryer on a cool setting
- Once hair is dry, begin to detangle with a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush
- Start at the ends and slowly work your way up to avoid pulling or breaking the hair
Installation Techniques
Choosing the right hair extension installation technique is essential for a natural look and comfort. Different methods cater to varied hair types and lifestyles, so it’s crucial to understand how each one works. Let’s talk about how to put in hair extensions.
Clip-In Extensions Method
Clip in hair extensions offer a quick and temporary solution for those looking to add length and volume without the long-term commitment. Here’s how they work:
- Section your hair: Start by creating a horizontal part at the back of your head and securing the rest of your hair out of the way
- Clip them in: Attach the clip-in wefts securely along the parted section, ensuring they lie flat against the scalp for a seamless look
Sew-In and Weave Method
Sew-in hair extensions, sometimes referred to as a weave, are a more durable option, typically requiring a professional stylist due to the intricacy of the application.
- Consultation: It’s advised to have a detailed consultation with a stylist who will assess your hair and determine the best thread and application method
- Installation:
- Braid the hair: Horizontal braids (or tracks) are created across the head
- Sew the weft: Using a special needle and thread, the hair wefts are sewn onto the braids
Tape-In Extensions Method
Tape-in extensions provide a semi-permanent method that involves adhesive tapes. Here’s what one needs to know:
- Part the hair: Similar to clip-ins, one needs to make a horizontal part
- Apply the tape: The tape-in wefts are then attached around small sections of the natural hair for a flat and invisible appearance
It’s crucial to have these methods applied by a trained professional for the best results and to minimize any potential damage to the natural hair.
Styling and Blending Extensions
When it comes to installing hair extensions, they need to not only match in color but also blend seamlessly with natural hair in terms of texture and style to achieve that flawless, voluminous look. You can get either synthetic hair extensions or human hair extensions. Both require regular styling.
Cutting and Trimming
To ensure clip-in extensions blend naturally, one may need to trim them.
When integrating clip-in extensions into a bob or other short hairstyles, using shears to create layers can help them appear more natural.
They can cut the extensions to different lengths to mimic the natural layers of hair. Always start by trimming a small amount, as they can always cut more if necessary.
Curling and Straightening
Using a curling iron or flat iron, extensions can be styled to match the natural hair’s texture.
For voluminous hair, they can curl both the extensions and natural hair simultaneously to help them intertwine naturally.
If they prefer straight hair, using a flat iron ensures both the extensions and the natural hair are aligned and straighten together for a sleek look.
It’s key to use a heat protectant to minimize damage to both the natural hair and the extensions.
Creating Updos and Braids
For an updo or a braid, first, they should ensure that their extensions are firmly attached with clips near the occipital area underneath the top layer of hair.
This placement allows the hair to cover the clips for a more natural look when styling.
Whether they’re going for a sophisticated bun or a casual braid, blending extensions is all about smoothing out any visible transitions between the extensions and natural hair.
They can use a loop brush or comb to help blend and style the hair without causing strain on the bonds.
Maintaining Your Hair Extensions
To keep synthetic hair extensions looking their best, a consistent care routine is crucial. By regularly washing, properly brushing, and correctly storing your extensions, they can remain as luscious as the day you first met them.
Regular Washing and Care
For both human hair extensions and synthetic varieties, gentle and regular washing is key.
They should handle them delicately, patting them dry instead of wringing them out.
One can use mild shampoo, and for human hair extensions, a hydrating conditioner can help maintain their natural sheen.
Cold water is preferred to seal in moisture and avoid tangling.
When using products like mousse or hairspray, it’s wise to opt for those that are extension-friendly to avoid build-up.
- Human Hair: Gentle shampoo, lukewarm water, follow with conditioner
- Synthetic Hair: Special synthetic-friendly shampoo, cool water
Proper Brushing Techniques
For the longevity of hair extensions, the right brushing technique is imperative.
One should use brushes designed specifically for extensions, like a loop brush, to avoid pulling at the roots.
Always start detangling from the ends and work your way up gently.
If you’re using heat tools, a heat protectant is essential to prevent damage.
- Brush Choice: Loop brush, detangling brush, or wig brush
- Technique: Start from the ends, move up, use heat protectant for styling
Storage and Handling
When they’re not bringing their A-game to one’s hairstyle, keeping extensions properly stored will prevent tangling and damage.
One should lay them flat, ideally in a storage box or silk bag.
If they must hang their extensions, ensure it’s in a way that avoids any unnecessary stress on the strands.
- Short-Term: Lay flat on a silk or satin surface
- Long-Term: Store in a box or silk/satin bag to maintain texture and prevent tangles