How to choose your hair extensions

Add volume and length to your hair with hair extensions! Far from being outdated, hair extensions are all the rage with women today as they are able to change their hairstyle as much as they please.

Women are increasingly turning to hair extensions made from natural hair that provide a flawless, elegant and beautiful finish but still allow them to get ready in the morning quickly. Before making any decisions about extensions, you may be wondering about how to make your choice among the different types, how you can put them in, and how you can look after them. 

If you think you are ready to take the plunge and try hair extensions, then discover the beautiful range offered by Expert Hair Extensions, the French number 1 on the extensions market. For those feeling a little lost by the different types of extensions that are available, then read on for further information and help in making the best choice.

What are the different techniques used when putting in hair extensions?

Being able to understand the different types of hair extensions and how to choose them will allow you to decide confidently. 

Let’s look at the pre-bonded technique and the micro ring technique. Micro ring extensions are more suitable if your hair is a little damaged or fragile, whereas pre-bonded extensions are best suited for fine hair.

Included in the micro-ring category are extensions with adhesive strips. They last for several months and are easy to put in yourself. 

Loop extensions are also included in the micro-ring selection. These strips of hair come with small rings that are then attached as close to the head as possible.

Clip-in extensions, on the other hand, are applied further away from the scalp and are very easy to use. These clip-ins are designed for occasional use.

When putting in micro-ring extensions, the same method should be followed. Part your hair in a horizontal line going from one ear to the other. Whether they are adhesive strips or clips, the extension strips should be attached around two centimetres from your head. 

The pre-bonded extension technique requires a little more skill and so you may wish to go to the hairdresser to have your extensions fitted correctly. These pre-bonded extensions are attached using keratin and will need to be heated with a heat gun. This method creates a strong bond between the extensions and your own hair.

To make the best choice among these different application methods ask, yourself what result you want to obtain. Will you be wearing them all the time or will their use be occasional? Do you need to get ready quickly in the morning? Do you want to put your extensions in alone, or would you prefer a professional do it? 

Remember that the pre-bonded technique generally lasts longer and is therefore an ideal solution if you want your new hairstyle to last for several months. The micro-ring technique doesn’t last quite so long, but is more convenient to put in and take out and could be a good choice if you are new to extensions.

Now that you know how to choose your hair extensions, you’ll need to know how to look after them properly. This is a really important aspect to take into consideration, especially if you want to keep your extensions for a long time. Treat your extensions as you would your real hair. Shampoo at least once a week lathering the product in your hands, massage it into your extensions and then rinse them thoroughly with clear water.

Ideally, you should let your extensions dry naturally, but you can use a hair dryer quickly if needed. Always position the dryer at least 6 inches away from your head and have it on a cool setting that is less damaging to your micro-ring extensions. If you have pre-bonded extensions, you can opt for a warmer setting.

It is possible to straighten your extensions, but be careful not to overdo it. Untangle your hair well and then, if it is wet, dry it properly with your head down. Then take your straightening iron and proceed to straighten, strand by strand. Always start from the root to the tip, stopping before reaching the tips to avoid damaging them.

To take extra care of your hair extensions, you might like to apply a keratin shampoo or a repair serum for the ends.

What length should you choose for your hair extensions?

Hair extensions come in many different lengths, from 10 inches, 16 inches, and 20 inches to 24 inches to suit all hairstyles, so how do you choose the right length for you?

First, consider your current haircut and the length you wish to obtain with the extensions. If you are looking for lots of volume, we would suggest going for shorter extensions.

The A-line bob is very fashionable and ideal if you already have short hair. Extensions can give you the extra length down to the level of your chin or slightly above your shoulders.

If you want low-maintenance, longish extensions then opt for the 16-inch extensions that will come down to your chest.

If, on the other hand, you have always wanted really long silky hair, but have struggled to grow it long enough, then don’t hesitate to go for the 20-inch or 24-inch extensions. These will come down to around your waistline, with stunning results. 

Once you know what length to go for, now you’ll need to choose the colour. For a natural look, try to select a colour that is as close as possible to your current hair. You can refer to a colour chart to find out how to choose your hair extensions according to their shade.