For years, you have been saving hairstyles to your Pinterest board. As salons begin to open back up, you might be thinking that it’s finally time to get the hair extensions you’ve been wanting. What are some key things you need to make this a good experience, rather than a hair-raising one?
Which professional stylist will you hire?
If you want long lasting extensions, you want to hire the right stylist, preferably someone who is an expert at installing hair extensions. Be willing to talk with several stylists at different salons to make an informed decision. Putting hair extensions in is a specialized niche so be diligent in shopping for a professional. The best stylist will allow you to come in for a consultation. Book the appointment and go with pictures of what you are wanting. Take notes when you talk with the stylist and be willing to ask questions. Remember, you are interviewing them for a job; installing your hair extensions. If you don’t have a good gut feeling about their capability, don’t book another appointment. Tell them you are shopping for the best hair extension professional.
What is your budget?
When you decide to get hair extensions, consider it an investment. Be upfront about what you can reasonably afford and be prepared to tip your stylist well. You can spend hundreds to thousands of dollars based on what you want. Be aware that the quality of your hair extensions is important. You want to look as natural as possible, like you don’t have hair extensions. If you go with something too inexpensive, you could end up being disappointed and looking like you’re wearing a wig.
What type of hair is used?
The best extensions are ethically sourced, 100% human hair and chemical free. The hair must not be treated with raw chemicals or have silicone added. In the world of hair extensions, the best is 100% Remy standard, which basically means the hair is aligned from the direction of the cuticles and is equally from the top and bottom. You’ll pay a little more, but the feel of the hair and the confidence you’ll receive will be worth it.
What type of hair extension are you wanting?
Don’t just go with whatever your bestie or the latest celebrity has posted on their Instagram and recommended. It may look beautiful on them, but you have different hair and what works for one person may not work for you. It’s important to do your research prior to going to a salon for a consultation. There are five types of hair extensions:
Tape: Usually lasts around 2 months. Your hair will be added in and taped with the extension.
Sew-ins: Lasts 2 to 4 months. Also known as weave, this is braided and sewn into your hair.
Clip-ins: Hold 2 to 4 months. These pre-clipped strips snap onto sections at your hair root.
Bonded/Fusion: Expect to last 4 months. These keratin bonds have dried ‘glue’ at one end.
Micro link: Lasts 4 weeks to 2 months. These micro extensions attach to hair with a flattened microbead without glue. They will need to be tightened at or around the 4 weeks mark.
How will the installation process work?
Ask the stylist how long the installation will take. Some hair extensions can take up to 5 hours, depending on the type and intricate labor involved. Other processes, such as using tape hair extensions may take less time, as the extensions are intended to last about 6-8 weeks. Compare the answers you get.
How will you maintain the extensions once they are installed?
Beautiful hair extensions may take a little extra time to take care of at home. You can have a world class, 5 star rated salon do the work, but the upkeep will be your responsibility. The right stylist will not let you leave the salon as soon as the extensions are in, but instead walk you through the exact products to use on your new extensions and give you step by step instructions on how to care for your tresses, from washing to drying and brushing.
How good is your current natural hair without extensions?
You are going to wear and take care of your hair extensions the way you take care of your natural hair, so great hair health is paramount before the extensions are in place. A great salon will let you know whether your hair is healthy enough for extensions. If your hair is too brittle, or too dry, you’re going to need guidance on how to get your hair in shape before extensions are added.
Conclusion
Now that you have your answers, why not take that plunge and let your hair down? Then you can look in the mirror and feel as if you’ve grown your hair overnight! But the best feeling is when you realize the Pinterest ideas you’ve been saving have literally become reality.
