Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Kate Beckinsale, Kim Kardashian, Jessica Simpson, Miley Cyrus, Victoria Beckham and countless others regularly surprise the world with new and different hairstyles -- changing color, style and even the length of their hair -- over the course of just a couple days. How do they do it?
This magic is made possible with the help of hair extensions and a very talented stylist.
Ala Jaber, our hair extensions specialist shares with us her secrets to giving you that fabulous mane:
Facts about hair extensions
- Extensions don't only add length but you can choose to add volume instead (or in addition to length), which is perfect for fine, limp or thinning hair.
- Turn that bob into a mane! If your existing hair is at little as 3 inches long, you can get extensions, although the extent of your transformation may be limited if your hair is very short.
- Extensions can be braided in, glued in, woven in, or -- if you only need a follicular boost for a special event -- clipped in.
- You can also add highlights or color -- with shades ranging from mild to wild -- to your hair with the use of extensions.
- The process isn't painful, so it shouldn't hurt a bit.
Is caring for your extensions going to give you a headache?
Do extensions require a great deal of upkeep and time commitment? "Extensions are not hard to maintain," says Ala Jaber, extensions specialist at Elie Esper Salon. "People just need to keep an eye on them -- almost like you would with color or anything else." Allow for an hour at the salon every six weeks.
CARING FOR YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS
Here are some specific tips to help you care for your extensions:
- Human hair extensions can be treated as real hair, but more gently.
- Use a special brush (often a loop brush) made just for extensions, so youd don't damage the new hair or the bond.
- A gentle shampoo is recommended, and use cool water to help minimize tangles.
- A light conditioner will help reduce tangling and keep your new hair supple.
- Sleep with your hair in a ponytail or braid to avoid bed-head and knots.
- You may find more information in our "Care" page
