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Hair Extensions: How to choose the right ones for you.

This is a great informative guest-post from Philip-James Salon in Chicago. They were kind enough to write us up a post and provide this great infographic image to break down hair extensions!

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Types of Hair Extensions and How to Choose the Right One for You

 

If you have shorter hair, you shouldn’t have to miss out on the fun and versatility that longer hair affords. And you don’t have to wait months (or years) for your hair to grow out, either – you can opt for natural-looking hair extensions instead. Before you go to your local hair salon and ask for extensions, though, you need to know that there are several different kinds to choose from, and the one that’s best for you will depend on your hair type, budget, and personal preference.

Luckily, Philip James Salon has put together an easy-to-follow infographic that breaks down the different types of hair extensions. You can refer to their table to learn all about:

Fusion

This is a classic technique that’s been used for more than 25 years. A hair stylist will roll small groupings of hair into your own hair using a keratin protein bond, and the bond is hidden by leaving natural hair out along the top of the head and hairline. This is one of the more expensive techniques, but the good news is that it lasts about 4 months with little to no maintenance required.

Microlink or Micro Cylinder

With this technique, hair is added strand by strand using microlinks. The nice thing about this approach is that it doesn’t require any glue or chemicals, and it lasts around 4 months. The microlinks (also known as beads or locks) can be moved closer to the scalp after 2 months, and the hair extensions can be reused, making this a cheaper option than fusion.

Braidless Sew-In

This is a relatively new technique where your own hair serves as a base and your hair extensions are attached with thread. It’s a great way to add length or volume, and it’s particularly good for lengthening thicker, shorter hair. As with microlinks, braidless sew-in extensions last about 4 months, can be moved closer to the scalp after 2, and can be reused.

Skin Weft

Also called tape in extensions, a skin weft involves attaching extensions by sandwiching small sections of hair between two pieces of weft. This is not a technique that you should use for full head application; rather, it works best for adding fullness and slight length to your natural hair. It lasts 6-8 weeks, depending on how often you shampoo. When you do wash your hair, you should use oil-free products.

Clip-On Extensions

This is the most inexpensive and low maintenance type of extension, but it’s also not long-lasting. Your stylist will use your hair length and color to find the right clip-on extensions for you and can show you how to attach and trim them so that they blend with your natural hair. You can choose extensions that match your natural color, or you can opt for splashes of bright color to liven up your look for special occasions. Clip-on extensions are recommended for occasional use, but full sets are not meant for everyday wear.

If you want to learn more about different types of extensions, including what kinds of hair they’re best for and how to maintain them, check out Philip James Salon’s handy infographic.

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