If you are unsure about which hair extension method is right for you,

your decision should be based on your needs and your hair.   Nowadays, getting hair extensions is easier but not all methods suit everyone.  The pressure to mirror certain beauty standards is as real today as in the past!

In order to know which hair extension method is right for you, there are various factors to

consider, such as:

Hair type

e.g. curly, wavy or straight in its natural state.  Purchasing extensions that look similar to your hair is essential to make it look more natural.

Hair texture: 

is the hair thick, thin or has the texture changed because of health challenges etc.  The hair has to be healthy enough to hold or anchor any extensions applied.  When choosing the extensions for especially thin hair, the weight is the most important guide.  No one wants the hair falling out because it is heavy.

Is there hair loss:  

If there is hair loss, and if so, where is it occurring? This is very important to know when choosing which hair extension method is right for you.  For example, if the loss is at the front or along the hairline at the temples, care has to be taken to be able to hide the bald spots.  The hair in this area is going to be doing double duty to anchor the extension while keeping its integrity.

Costs

Failure to list all the costs associated with getting hair extensions can cause you to exceed your budget.   Usually some only think about getting the hair and applying it but your budget should include:  

• cost of the hair extensions
• installation cost
• maintenance costs if it has to be maintained at the salon
• possibly new products
• Accessibility – will you have to take time off work or travel far to get to the salon
• how easily can you transition if you decide not to continue with them to something else.  
• Lifestyle e.g. if you swim a lot or live at the gym, will it cause more maintenance costs.

When deciding which hair extensions method is right for you, please do your research.  Change is an emotional event and preparation is key.

By Paula Barker, Silkie Locks Hair Design

Books:  “Talking Hair”, “Filling My Head” & “Dreadlocks – A Hairstylist’s Manifest”.