What do celebs like J. Lo, Kim Kardashian, and Chrissy
Teigan all have in common? Besides sharing a killer fashion sense, these ladies
are in on another Hollywood secret that lets them constantly take their looks
to the next level — hair extensions.
Whether its adding extra volume, length, or even trendy
bangs, hair extensions are a great way to rock different styles, without having
to commit to a certain look for too long. The good news: you don't have to be
Beyoncé to have hair like a boss. In fact, all you need is a little research to
start. Luckily, I love researching and did some digging for you, so read on for
10 things you should know before getting your first set of hair extensions.
Real or synthetic?
Extensions are usually made in two
different ways — with real human hair or with synthetic material that's made to
emulate real hair. Each has its benefits and drawbacks. Human hair extensions
have a natural look and feel. They also have a certain shine and movement
that's difficult to recreate in synthetic hair. Plus, because its real hair,
natural hair extensions are easy to cut, style and blend with your own hair.
The downside? Human hair extensions aren't exactly cheap.
Synthetic hair extensions, on the other hand, can be a more
affordable option, usually costing between $50 and $100. With advances in
technology, synthetic hair has come a long way in recent years, with newer
options made with fibers that feel more like real hair. One great thing about
synthetic extensions is that most can be worn out of the box. Plus, they hold
up in bad weather because they don't frizz like natural hair does. However,
because of the strong fibers, synthetic extensions are less versatile than
human hair, taking more effort to change curl patterns. They also don't last as
long as human hair, typically requiring replacement every 3-6 months.
So many options
Choosing between real or synthetic hair isn't the only
decision you have to make when it comes to your hair extensions. You'll also
have to decide which one of the four types of extensions you'll be adding to
your mane. "There are keratin-applied extensions, weaves, taped, and
glue-taped," Bianca Arussi, co-owner of J'Adore Salon in Beverly Hills,
told OK! magazine. According to the interview, Arussi highly recommends the
keratin process, which adheres the extensions to your scalp using a
keratin-based dry "glue" at one-end, and a hot/cold drying treatment.
Consider your lifestyle
Think about your everyday routine when considering hair
extensions. Do you spend a lot of time out in the sun? In the water? Do you
often add a lot of heat to your locks with blowdryers and flat irons? This
could help in deciding which extensions are right for you. "If you do a
lot of hot yoga, the tape is not a good option—the keratin is better,"
explains Monica Thornton, co-founder of RPZL in New York City, the world's
first hair-extension and blowout bar, in Forbes. "If you want to change
your color often, opt for the tape because the keratin is in there a long
time."
Select the right
color
As much as those shiny blonde locks may be calling your name,
you should choose extensions that match your natural hair color. This will not
only look more natural right off the bat, but the extensions will also blend
better should you choose to dye your hair or add highlights later on.
Permanent isn't always best
While permanent extensions can look great, they aren't
always the best option as they can end up damaging your existing hair.
"The most important thing is to avoid extensions and pieces that are
heavier than your own hair," Philip Pelusi of New York City's Tela Salon
told She Knows. "If extensions are too heavy, they will damage and break
off hair — so hair needs to be long and healthy enough to withstand the
pressure." Pelusi also suggests asking your stylist about getting a
variety of weights, because a single one may not work for everyone.
Go to an expert
If you do decide on permanent hair extensions, don't trust
just any hair stylist. Do your research and be prepared to make an investment.
This will ensure your end result not only looks great, but also won't damage
your hair in the long term.
Be prepared to spend a few hours at
the salon
Much like having your hair colored, getting hair extensions
is a process. Be prepared to spend 3-4 hours at the salon on the day of your
appointment.
Get your hair cut
It may sound counterintuitive, especially because most
people get extensions to make their hair appear longer, but Arussi notes a
post-extensions cut is the key to making your hair look as natural and
beautiful as possible.
Take care of your extensions
Whether you're rocking real or fake hair, you need to
maintain your locks if you want them to stay looking gorgeous. "The
natural oils of your hair will not reach the tips of your extensions,"
Monica Thornton, co-founder of RPZL told InStyle. "Proper care includes a
daily brushing routine, hydration, and the use of natural products that avoid
drying chemicals."
When in doubt, go with clip-ons
Hair extensions can be a big commitment in both time and
money. Before investing in permanent extensions, play around with clip-ons.
Available at most beauty supply stores, clip-on extensions can be a good segway
into permanent extensions as you get to see what you look like with longer,
fuller locks, experience how they feel, and learn how to maintain them. What's
even better, clip-ons are a fraction of the cost of regular extensions.