Real Hair Extensions - What You Need to Know That Your Hairdresser Might Not Tell You

By Erica Mate

Natural hair extensions do have considerable advantages over synthetic ones as they blend in so much better. Often it takes a trained eye to differentiate them from your own hair. The extensions can be washed, brushed, straightened, curled, and even coloured should you so wish. They can be worn 24/7 for months on end and still look good.

Your hairstylist ought however, to point out that there is some maintenance required in order to achieve a reasonable life span for natural hair extensions. Without proper care the extensions won't last and you'll be back at the hair salon sooner than you would have liked.

The information you need to know is as follows: Real hair extensions are much more likely to dry out than your own hair as they can't absorb any of the natural oils from the scalp.When shampooing you need therefore to rinse out thoroughly and then apply a thin layer of extra moisturizing formula conditioner. Massage in gently but evenly and leave for 3-4 minutes before rinsing.

Sometimes bacteria can congregate under the extensions so you need to shampoo and condition your hair and the attached extensions every two days or so. Remember that the extensions can tangle easily and could become detached if handled too roughly.

Knots unfortunately can be a problem with hair extensions as they do tangle easily. It is best to remove these whilst your hair is wet after showering. A wide-tooth comb is essential for this as it glides through the hair more easily. Gently loosen any knots or tangles and then comb through. If the knots are stubborn, use more detangling spray and have patience. Too much pulling can cause loosening of the extensions.

Exposure to heat on a daily basis is likely to shorten the life of your hair extensions, so you need to be a little sparing with the straightening iron. This does'nt mean you can't use them at all, just less frequently than you might with your own hair. The same advice would apply to the use of curlers.

Since the extensions are fixed to your own hair which grows, they will tend to become looser over time. Don't wait more than three months to get the extensions tightened or they could become partially detached or cause problems. Every 8-12 weeks is about the average period you can go in between tightening, depending on how fast your hair grows.

Your hairdresser might suggest you replace your extensions after 6 months or so , but, with proper care they can last much longer than that, maybe as much as two years, so don't be persuaded to replace them unnecessarily. If you care for your extensions taking heed of the advice given here you will find they are a lasting asset to your appearance. - 30305

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