Hair extensions
When I started looking into the world of hair extensions I discovered it is a minefield. Yes, they can give you the thick, glossy long hair you have always desired or the chance to try a new colour or add a fringe to freshen up your look. But good ones don’t come cheap. Prices start from £300 for thickening and £500 for lengthening. I also realised it was a bit like choosing a colourist; you go to somebody who is known for their skills rather than the brand they use.
Types
Wefts, strand by strand and clip-ins. Human hair is the most natural. Choose Remy hair which has the hair cuticle intact and lies in one direction like your own hair. There are two types of Remy hair: single-drawn – 80 per cent will be the same length and double-drawn which is all the same length and is the most expensive. According to Chris Hinchliffe from the Lucinda Ellery Consultancy double-drawn can create an unnatural finish as the ends have to be cut away which can be wasteful.
Ethically sourced “temple hair” from India is one of the most popular. As it is thicker than European hair, it may not work with fine hair.
Neville Tucker from Neville Hair and Beauty advises against buying extensions yourself. “You should get a certified hairdresser to buy them for you, as they will not only be able to match the colour correctly to your hair, but they will know which ones are more suitable for each individual.”
To ensure a good colour match, Leo Bancroft, resident hairdresser on ITV’s This Morning, suggests holding them next to your hair in natural light.
How?
The two professional methods are: prebonded (uses an acrylic based adhesive) and polyamide (has a waxy feel). Clip-ins are good for experimenting with different looks, but must be taken out at night.
Research
Always check your technician’s credentials as badly applied extensions can damage your own hair, while too many can cause a strain on the scalp. Extensions must be applied using a good amount of natural hair per connection and be a suitable size for your hair type.
Go for at least a couple of consultations. Check what training the technician has had. Ask about maintenance. Also you should ask to see examples of their work.
Care is needed when styling extensions. Avoid using conditioner near the roots or any oil-based products as this may break-down the adhesive.
They must always be carefully removed. You may need to have breaks from using them – the technician should be able to advise you. You may experience some discomfort in the beginning. They are not always the easy option you think they are.
Where to go
Lucinda Ellery Consultancy (www.lucindaellery.com)
Nyumba (www.nyumbasalon.com)
Nyumba (www.nyumbasalon.com)
By Daralyn Danns
