Updating Your Appearance

Do You Believe These False Things About Hair Extensions?

by Melinda Hawkins

Most people have an idea of what hair extensions are. Basically, they are fake hair that you can add to your own head of hair in order to make it look longer and fuller. Beyond those basics, however, what you think you know about hair extensions might not be quite accurate. Here are a few false things that people sometimes believe about hair extensions.

False statement: Hair extensions have to be put in by a stylist. 

There are some types of extensions that should be put in professionally. Keratin-bonded extensions are one such type. They are little clumps of extension hair that your stylist binds to your natural hair with a protein-based glue. If you don't want to sit in a stylist's chair to get extensions, though, you do have other options. There are clip-in extensions that you can put into your hair every day. There are also halo extensions, which hang around your head from a headband-like instrument. It is often wise to buy these extensions from a stylist to make sure they match your hair. However, your stylist does not need to put them in each time you wear them.

False statement: The only good extensions are those made from human hair.

Some extensions are made from human hair that has been donated or purchased from others. But these natural hair extensions are in the minority. There are synthetic extensions that are very high-quality, durable, and real-looking. In many cases, these are longer-lasting and overall better than extensions made from real hair. Unless you have a specific reason for wanting real human hair extensions, you're usually better off with synthetics.

False statement: Extensions are bad for your real hair.

Extensions can be bad for your real hair, but only if you don't use and care for them correctly. Here are some tips to protect your natural hair when wearing extensions:

  • Have your stylist show you where to best place your clip-in and halo extensions to avoid putting too much strain on your hair.
  • Do not sleep with your extensions in.
  • Do not brush your hair with the extensions on. Brush your hair and extensions separately, and then put the extensions in.

If there are other things you've heard about hair extensions, and you're not sure whether they are true, ask your stylist. Hairstylists are experts on extensions and can give you accurate, helpful information regarding your own personal hair and needs.

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