There are many factors to think about once an individual has decided to get hair extensions. Some important things to consider are:
The time commitment involved with extensions.
Hair extensions do require maintenance treatment or "tightening" at least every 3-5 months. Natural hair growth varies with each person, but averages about 1/2 inch per month. It is important to get extensions reapplied as the hair grows to prevent breakage. If growth exceeds an inch or two the natural hair near the scalp also may turn into dread locks or may tear off as the natural hair sheds.
Many extensions need to be completely replaced when the hair is tightened. If high quality hair is used, it is possible that the hair may be reused for many months. It may be more cost effective to use quality hair to initiate a set of extensions due to the fact that it can be reused.
Hair extensions also require special daily care. A professional extension specialist should have written instructions on how to care for extensions to give to each client. To extend the life of the hair it is important to follow these instructions at all times.
Cost
Hair extensions have a huge variation in price ranges. Synthetic hair can be purchased for as little as $10 while other elite brands may cost thousands of dollars. It is very important to use quality hair that will not tangle or shed over time. Any individual who has had "bad" extension hair will verify how frustrating it can be to rip through their matted hair several times per day. Most individuals who decide to use cheap hair can only tolerate it for a few weeks before they upgrade to a better quality.
Although it is important to choose hair that is of good quality, it is not necessary to spend thousands of dollars on products. There are many extension companies that claim that their hair is superior and charge an exuberant amount of money for their products.
If a client is savvy and educated, it is very realistic to get great quality extensions for a few hundred dollars. Part of the variation in cost may be in the amount of hair that is needed and the method of placement that will be used. If a client is being charged more than $500 for hair, there should be questions raised about the integrity of the distributor or stylist.
Method
There are as many as 35 methods available for hair extensions. These range from traditional sew-in extensions to newer methods such as the skin weft or flash point. It is important to choose the right method for the client's hair texture and desired result. Some methods are much better suited for fine, thin hair while others are better with thicker and coarse hair types.
There are many salons that offer extensions; but most only offer one method of placement. It is important that the client chooses a stylist that is competent in various methods of extensions. The client should be able to customize their extensions to best suit their lifestyle and preferences.
