The Secrets to Hair Extension Success

Did you ever wonder how so many of the long-locked, thick-tressed models that grace the pages of your favorite magazines came to have such awesome looking hair? It’s an open secret that many of them did it the old-fashioned way – they “cheated” with extensions. And with a bit of insider know-how, you can too. Here are some of the most important must-know tricks for making hairpieces work for you.

1. Investing a Little More up Front Pays off in the End

Good extensions don’t have to break the bank, but they shouldn’t be super cheap, either. You can buy inexpensive clip-ins that will get the job done, but they’re not likely to last long, and they may tangle easily or lose their luster. You’re probably better off spending a bit more for higher-quality products that provide more longevity and less maintenance – especially if you think you’ll be using them often.

2. Take the Time to Seal the Wefts

All extensions shed fibers, but if you do some preventive maintenance before you use them, you can minimize fiber loss and maximize your extensions’ lifespan. The “wefts” are the threads between which the hairs are woven, and the more grip they have, the less shed you’ll experience. All beauty supply stores carry weft sealers, and they’re as easy to use as nail polish. This simple step can save you a lot of time and money down the road.

3. Remember That Curled Hair is Shorter…
You may think that an 18-inch hairpiece is ridiculously long, but if you plan to curl it, you may be surprised how much length you’ll lose. Keep the curl factor in mind when choosing the length of the extensions you’re investing in.

4. …And Synthetic Hair Doesn’t Curl

Long, big, bouncy curls are a big part of the attraction of extensions, so don’t sabotage your hairstyling plans by purchasing synthetic fibers. You will be disappointed in the result. If you want straight extensions and synthetic is your only option, be sure to wash with Woolite and fabric softener to maintain the fibers’ texture.

5. Layers Can Make Your Look More Natural

If your main concern is to make your tresses appear thicker, you may want to add extensions in a variety of lengths. Your own hair isn’t all exactly the same length, and if you want them to blend well, your extensions shouldn’t be either. Varied lengths can also give you a layered style when you want it, while allowing you to keep your own hair at one length for when you don’t.

Enhancing your look doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. A little creativity and a few simple tricks are all it takes to turn extensions into your best secret weapon for styling success.favorite magazines came to have such awesome looking hair? It’s an open secret that many of them did it the old-fashioned way – they “cheated” with extensions. And with a bit of insider know-how, you can too. Here are some of the most important must-know tricks for making hairpieces work for you.