If you’ve always wondered how celebrities managed to go from short to long hair in a matter of weeks, chances are they’ve used hair extensions.
Hair extensions have become one of the most popular and sophisticated beauty trends in the world and while there are still some stories about hair extensions damaging and breaking your natural hair, the latest technology and application systems ensure that this is no longer the case.
Hair extension application system pros and cons
Keratin Bonds
To apply the hair extensions, keratin bonds are applied to the tip of each strand. Thereafter heat is used to bond the extension to the natural hair. Because the bonds are small, they are very discrete and you will be able to brush your hair as you normally would.
Keratin bond pros:
- Invisible
- No slippage
- Suitable for all hair types
- Lightweight
- No maintenance required for 4 – 5 months
Keratin bond cons:
- Application takes 2 – 3 hours
- New extensions required after 4 – 5 months
Micro-beads
This application system uses small copper or metal beads to apply the extensions to the natural hair. Since there is some friction when micro-beads are used, it’s only recommended for very strong, healthy hair. Micro-beads will need to be moved up every 6 – 8 weeks, which means you will require more follow-up appointments at your salon than other application systems.
Micro-bead pros:
- Can be applied in 2 hours
- Can be reused for up to a year
Micro-bead cons:
- Only suitable for strong hair
- Requires more maintenance
- Heat from a blow drier can damage the natural hair
Tape
Tape is one of the more modern application systems and is available at EH Hair & Extensions Salon in Sydney. To apply the extensions, a piece of tape is used on either side of the natural hair. The extensions will need to moved every 6 months with this application system. Tape is a great application system for someone trying hair extensions for the first time.
Tape pros:
- Can be reused for up to 6 months
- Inexpensive
- Suitable for all types of hair
- One of the fastest application systems
Tape cons:
- Extensions will need to be moved every 6 months
- Bonds can be visible when hair is tied up
Wefts
Wefts were one of the first application systems. After the natural hair is braided, the weft is sewn into the braids.
Weft pros:
- Looks very natural
- Can be reused for up to a year
- Very secure application system
Weft cons:
- Headaches become likely if hair is braided too tightly
- Can’t be used on thin hair
- Can become matted
- Weft needs to be moved every 6 weeks
Clip-Ins
These hair extensions are glued to a clip before they are applied to the hair. This is the only DIY application system.
Clip-in pros:
- Won’t damage natural hair
- Very cost effective
Clip-in cons:
- Won’t always look natural
- Not very secure
- Not suitable for up-styles