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6 Factors to Consider Before Getting Hair Extensions

Getting hair extensions is one of the quickest ways to overhaul your look. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the right decision for you. In fact, you might even find that you loathe hair extensions.

This is why, before going through with it, you need to make a few considerations. Without further ado, here are 6 factors to consider before getting hair extensions.

1. HAIR EXTENSIONS COME IN MANY DIFFERENT TYPES

The first thing to consider is that professional hair extensions come in many different types. Not only do they possess different looks but different attachment methods, different maintenance requirements, and more. In other words, before making any decisions, you need to assess your options and determine what’s best for you.

Some hair extensions are melted into the existing hair. Others are clipped in. There are also taped-on hair extensions. There is even an option to have your hair extensions sewn in.

Call up your local hairdresser to discuss which options are most viable for you and your situation. You might learn something that sways your opinion in one way or another. At the very least, you’ll become more informed about what you’re getting yourself into, and will be able to make educated choices as they pertain to the health and well-being of your hair.

2. HAIR EXTENSIONS NEED TO BE MAINTAINED

Another important thing to consider about hair extensions is that they need to be maintained. Generally speaking, they need much more upkeep than actual hair. If they don’t receive this level of upkeep, they can deteriorate prematurely, not to mention lose their aesthetics.

Now, what does typical hair extension maintenance entail? Regular washing, brushing, and blow-drying, all the while using specific and specialized products. You’ll likely also need to see your hairdresser more frequently as a means of having your extensions professionally maintained.

In other words, hair extensions require quite a large commitment from their wearers, both in terms of time and money. If you’re at all resistant to this commitment, you probably shouldn’t get hair extensions.

3. THE COST OF HAIR EXTENSIONS FLUCTUATES

You might have the idea that all hair extensions cost around the same price. However, in truth, hair extension costs can fluctuate substantially.

On the very low end, you can find hair extensions for just $20. These, however, are usually lacking in quality.

On the high end, hair extensions can cost as much as thousands of dollars. Generally speaking, the greater the cost, the better the quality of the extension.

That said, you can find a set of good extensions for a few hundred bucks, usually between $200 and $500. These won’t possess the durability of higher-end models but will still possess an attractive and convincing aesthetic.

For more information on the pricing of hair extensions, give a call to a hairdresser. They’ll guide you through the specifics.

4. YOU CAN’T SLEEP WITH WET HAIR EXTENSIONS

As was noted above, hair extensions are much more high-maintenance than actual hair. One of the ways this presents itself is in the way that the extensions react during sleep. Put simply, if you go to bed with wet hair extensions, you’re going to have a serious problem in the morning.

Why? Because, when hair extensions are wet, and when they’re being pressed and moved against the bed, they’re going to become tangled with your authentic hair, resulting in extreme matting.

Yes, you can brush these mats out (to an extent, at least). However, in doing so, you’ll loosen the attachments of the hair extensions, thereby reducing their lifespan substantially.

So if you’re going to get hair extensions, you’re going to need to make sure that you have the patience to let them dry out before going to sleep. Sleeping with wet hair extensions even once can damage them irreparably.

5. HAIR EXTENSIONS ARE HIGHLY SUSCEPTIBLE TO CERTAIN SUBSTANCES

Another thing you should consider about hair extensions is that they’re highly susceptible to certain substances. If they make contact with these substances, they can change color and even consistency.

One substance to look out for is Avebenzone and Octocrylene-containing sunscreens. These sunscreens will turn extensions orange or pink upon contact.

Other substances to be aware of include ethyl alcohol, propanol, ethanol, propyl, sodium Lauryl sulfate, and sodium Laureth sulfate, to name just a few. Many of these are found in hair care solutions. Therefore, when buying new conditioners and shampoos, make sure to read their labels.

Remember: these substances can destroy hair extensions, costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the process. If you don’t think you can avoid them, don’t get hair extensions.

6. THE QUALITY OF YOUR HAIRDRESSER MATTERS

Not all hairdressers are created equal. Whether it’s haircuts, hair dying, or the addition of extensions, the quality of your hairdresser will affect the results you receive.

As such, if you’re going to get new hair extensions, you need to make sure to find a reputable hairdresser. Search Google for hairdressers in your area and use online reviews to determine which ones are the most renowned.

Also, be sure to see examples of their work prior to having your extensions added. This will give you a good idea as to whether or not they can do the job correctly.

INTERESTED IN GETTING HAIR EXTENSIONS IN ST. LOUIS?

What do you say? Are hair extensions right for you? Interested in getting hair extensions in St. Louis?

If so, we here at the Boulevard Hair Co. are the ones to see. We offer a variety of hair extension options and have provided all types of hair extensions to a number of happy clients.