Introduction to Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are a hairstyling technique recently introduced from Europe. As the name suggests, it involves attaching additional hair to one's natural hair, instantly transforming short hair into long hair. The hair used for extensions can be either synthetic or natural. Since natural hair is more realistic, smooth, and easier to dye, perm, wash, and maintain, it is now more commonly used. The principle of hair extensions is simple: it involves "grafting" processed human hair onto one's natural hair. The process requires dividing the hair into small sections and meticulously combining them strand by strand, making it a detailed and time-consuming task. It caters to the desires of young people who wish to turn their short hair long or thick, or achieve highlights (Depart Dyeing) without coloring their long hair. However, if your hair is too short (standard buzz cut), you will still miss out on this trend.

Hair extensions must be performed by professional hairstylists. The hair quality is divided into two types: natural hair and synthetic fiber. You can choose based on your preference. Natural hair can be permed, dyed, and treated with nourishing care, and it is easy to comb. Synthetic fiber, though vibrant in color, is difficult to comb. To ensure the extensions blend seamlessly with the natural hair roots, the adhesive wax used comes in four colors—black, purple, red, and yellow—based on individual hair color.

If you want to transform your short hair into long or thin hair into thick, and opt for natural hair, the price ranges from approximately 1,500 to 4,000 yuan depending on the length. If you simply want to add a few strands of colored hair for a change of mood, the price is around 300 yuan. If you choose synthetic fiber, the price will be slightly lower.

If you grow tired of the long or colored extensions, the hairstylist will use a specially formulated solution to remove them. If you frequently use alkaline shampoo when washing your hair, the extensions may naturally fall off.

There are three basic methods: adhesive bonding, clip-in, and braiding. Each method has its advantages, with braiding being a newer and more natural technique. Generally, extensions applied using any of these methods can last three to six months.

Methods of Hair Extensions

The two most popular methods in salons today are adhesive bonding and clip-in extensions.

Adhesive bonding involves dividing the extension hair into small strands, each containing about 10 to 20 hairs. A keratin-rich adhesive is applied to the root of each strand, and a similar amount of natural hair is taken at the appropriate position. The extension is quickly attached to the root of the natural hair, about one centimeter away. The adhesive hardens rapidly, completing the attachment of one strand. If removal is needed later, visit the salon to have the stylist heat and melt the adhesive, or use a special solution applied to the connection points to remove the strands one by one.

Clip-in extensions also involve dividing the hair into small strands. Special clips are used to secure the extension hair to the roots of the natural hair, with the top hair naturally falling to cover the clips. The advantage of this method is that the clips and extensions can be removed more easily when no longer needed.

Steps for Hair Extensions

The process takes approximately 1 to 3 hours.

1. Before the extensions.

2. First, divide the hair into a V-shape. Then, starting from one side, take small sections of hair and begin the adhesive process based on the pre-designed hairstyle. Before attachment, trim the extension hair evenly, or graft it strand by strand.

3. After all the hair is attached, lightly trim it according to the hairstyle.

4. It is recommended to wait 24 hours after the extensions are applied before perming, dyeing, or performing nourishing treatments on the hair.

Care for Hair Extensions: With proper attachment and care, the extensions can last 1 to 6 months or longer. However, you must adhere to the following:

1. Use a wide-toothed comb with rounded tips for daily combing. Avoid combing too forcefully, as it may cause hair damage and loss.

2. Use acidic shampoo and conditioner.

3. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

4. When blow-drying, keep the hairdryer away from the roots of the extensions.

5. When washing your hair, avoid vigorously scrubbing the roots of the extensions.