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.

How to Get Rid of Dark Circles

How to Get Rid of Dark Circles

Dark circles are one of the top beauty woes of women around the world. If you have blueness under your eyes, you are probably tired of hearing people ask if you are tired. You might also be a little bit worried that sometimes you look like you have black eyes. Most people have tried every concealer possible in an effort to get rid of this unfortunate problem. Why does it seem like none of them work? Perhaps it is because you have never heard of these beauty secrets.

Get Creative

To effectively rid your dark circles, you might need to get creative. Instead of using a flesh tone concealer, you might need a product that will neutralize the discoloration. This color is the opposite of the blue on the color wheel. In most cases, something with more orange will actually cancel the blue. If your skin tone is darker, then a reddish orange color will usually correct the problem area. For lighter skin tones, peach tones tend to work well.

Finding a red or orange concealer is not always likely. Instead try looking for a neutralizer product by TEMPTU Pro or use a lipstick in the right hue. You might be surprised at how well these options work to cancel out your blueness and give you the pick me up you are seeking.

Application Tips

 Obviously, you are probably not going to apply a bunch of red lipstick underneath your eyes and leave it there. Instead, use a little bit and blend it with your foundation or regular concealer. You can also mix it with a brightening product for even more results. Do not be afraid to mix a few products together to get the right blend for you. This will help you correct your dark circles so you look your best.

Pick up a neutralizer or lipstick in the right shade for your skin tone today. You might be surprised how well this tip works to cancel out the blueness under your eyes, and you will probably want to share this beauty secret with all of your friends.

Image: Thinkstock

SneakerKing

Women may need support or comfort when selecting new shoes, but the way shoes look is always a consideration too. Fashion and practicality have to form the right combination when one chooses new footwear. Everyone has their own sense of style, but a cute pair of shoes should also have some sensible advantages.

Specific Athletic Shoes

Sneakers usually possess the same basic construction, which makes it seem like one only needs to select her preferred colors and design, but some may be better for running or walking than others. The Women's New Balance 990V3 works for both runners or walkers but has a high density foam that can cushion feet when one walks long distances, and Flex Appeal Sketchers are built for runners in training and are lightweight while providing extra traction.

Yoga seems to be here to stay instead of a passing trend, and those who take classes or practice in private might want to own the correct footwear for this surprisingly challenging activity. Yoga shoes look like ordinary sandals but are usually made from the same materials as a yoga mat, so they provide the same benefits as a mat with added comfort. Sandals like the Women’s Yoga Sling 2 from stores like Sneaker King offer color and a thicker strap, and many yoga sandals are vegetarian and vegan.

Casual Wear

It is tempting to forgo sensible options when choosing shoes that match one's personal style, but it may be most important for casual, everyday shoes to have some practical benefits since these shoes are worn often. Darling Harness boots from UGG Australia offer height and pair well with jeans but are also durable and customizable. The harness adds a unique look but is removable when one wants a chic, simple boot.

Shop for Combinations

Shoes meant for multiple purposes mean that women have more opportunities to wear their cute finds, but dual purpose shoes also help when needing a shoe for rare occasions. The Hikerfish Boot by Sperry is water-resistant for boating and provides traction for hiking, so those who spend some time outdoors only need one shoe for both activities. Other, more traditional boat shoes are a good mix of function and fashion because many Sperry boat shoes have unique detailing and fun patterns while offering versatility and a snug fit lacing system.

Great looking shoes offer the most benefit when they are also supportive, versatile or right for an activity.