Hair Extensions 101

We all see hair that we want, and more often than not, it’s not what we have. Gorgeous locks and styles we see in magazines and movies on the heads of A-list stars (and even D-list stars) are often lugged around with us as examples of what we want when we’re going to get our hair colored, cut, or styled. And while some people know, others are completely in the dark about the fact that a majority of these Hollywood manes aren’t really real – extensions, anyone?

“As more stars and celebrities begin to experiment with new hairstyles, hair weaves have become even more ubiquitous. Like hair coloring, a hair weave is a relatively easy and non-invasive way to change your appearance,” said hair stylist Amoy Pitters, owner of Amoy Couture Hair. “Extensions have been long thought of as only for the rich and famous; however this is no longer the case. New technology and consumer education is driving cost down while at the same time, increasing the quality of products that are now available.”

Hair extension trend-setters. From left: Beyonce Knowles, Eva Longoria, Kate Beckinsale.

If you are considering adding extensions to your natural hair, it’s important to explore your options to understand what each technique might do to your hair and how natural it looks. For example, for shorter hair, it’s best to sew in extensions to attain an even flow of layers. For longer locks, Pitters recommends fusion or micro link weaves to add fullness and texture. All of these options depend on the style each is going for and one’s budget. It’s also important to consider necessary precautions to minimize the risks of damaging your natural hair and scalp, Pitters advised. Here are some other tips from Pitters.

Choosing the Right Hair Type
It is important to know that the type of hair you add to your own will seriously affect how realistic and attractive your extensions look. “Extensions and weaves come in both synthetic and natural forms (human hair) and you will want to think carefully about your lifestyle and desired look before choosing a hair type,” advised Pitters, who only uses human hair in her salon, since it’s better for free-flowing styles and less damaging overall. There are many types of human hair to choose from. Your personal preference, hair type, and cost restrictions will determine what type of extensions you and your stylist will choose.

How Long Do Hair Extensions Last?
Most hair extensions have a lifespan of two months, however, Pitters strongly advises against keeping the same set of extensions for longer than three months. “Just like the body’s skin, the scalp needs to be cleansed thoroughly to remain healthy. Extensions prohibit the scalp from getting the ‘scrub’ it needs to grow healthy hair,” said Pitters.

Hair Extension Maintenance
Hair extensions are washed and treated the same way as you do your natural hair. Always wash your scalp as well as your natural hair and the weave hair every 7 to 14 days. However, hair extensions do tend to wear out with normal wash and wear. Weave hair is especially prone to becoming brittle and dry because it is not attached to the scalp and therefore doesn’t receive any of the body’s naturally nourishing oils. “Your natural hair will become dry and brittle if it is not washed, conditioned and moisturized on a regular basis,” said Pitters. She recommends using gentle products to clean your hair and to keep your hair moisturized with a deep conditioner.

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