In addition to not looking as good, synthetic hair can actually cause a serious allergic reaction in some people. With extensions, you get what you pay for. You don’t have to spend a fortune, but you’ll get a more natural result if you save up for higher-quality wefts. Human hair extensions will also last longer than synthetic hair extensions.
If you’re not sure what type of glue to use, you can ask a sales associate at the same place you buy your extensions. If your hair has different color tones, choose two colors to be sandwiched together to create a more natural or even highlighted look. If you have hair that is differently colored at the root end from the hair ends, then opt for ombre hair extensions that can reflect this range of color change.
If you’re adding the extensions just for extra volume, cut them to the same length as your hair. If you want to add length, your extensions should be cut longer than your natural hair.
If you want your extensions to look really believable, take them to your hair stylist and have them cut and colored professionally. Do not attempt to dye synthetic hair extensions, as they can be ruined.
Your hair should be completely dry before you apply extensions, so either blow dry it or allow it to air dry. Other than shampoo and conditioner, do not use other hair care products before attaching extensions.
The extensions are made to be treated like real hair, so although you should be gentle, it’s okay to comb them the same way you would your natural hair. It may help to lay the extensions flat while you’re detangling them. If you have curly hair, it may be easier to detangle your hair before you dry it.
If you part your hair in the middle, the section should be at the center of your scalp. If you prefer a side part, the section should be off-center.
Make the part as clean as possible, because you don’t want stray hairs getting into your glue.
You’ll need to undo the rest of your hair after you apply the first track, so it’s best to hold the hair up using a banana clip or a similar technique that’s easy to remove.
Cut the weft with scissors, then hold the extension piece up to double-check the width. You want to leave the extensions at least 1⁄2 in (1. 3 cm) from your hairline because the piece of hair that’s left will hide the extensions if you pull your hair back.
There should be enough glue to coat the weft but not drip off.
Touch the glue to make sure it’s neither runny nor dry. It should be about 60-70% dry when you’re finished drying it. Some hair stylists will also apply a strong hold hairspray at this stage and then blow dry your hair. If you’re using synthetic hair, make sure your blowdryer is on the cool setting.
Remember to leave the hair at least 1⁄2 in (1. 3 cm) away from your hairline. You always need to have enough hair in the front to cover the extensions. Do not apply glue on your scalp. [11] X Research source If you apply the extension directly to your scalp, it can stunt the growth of your hair and lead to hair damage. If you find that your extension wasn’t cut long enough, just snip a little piece and apply it using the same method.
If you opted for synthetic extensions, you may want to use the cool setting on your hair dryer. It’s a good idea to use a heat-protecting product before applying heat to your hair and extensions. Treat your extensions like real hair.
Use the same technique to apply the second extension as you did the first.
You’ll still follow the same application technique, but your extensions will be a little longer since they’re reaching further around. This wide U-shape will mimic the natural fall of your hair and should make the finished result look more natural. Place your last extension around the rectangular shape you made at the beginning of the process.
When you’re combing out your hair, be sure not to push the comb into your extensions. Gently comb just along the surface of the hair to smooth it out.
You can heat style extensions made from real hair, although you should limit how much you do so, or your extensions may start to look damaged and messy. Just like with your regular hair, you can spray your extensions with a heat protectant to help prevent damage due to styling. [17] X Research source
To detangle your real hair, gently lift the extension and comb out the shorter pieces of your own hair.
You should usually take out your extensions after about 3 weeks, but if you’re experiencing scalp pain or excess shedding, take them out sooner.
