Hair Extensions – The Basics

Human Hair Wig

How do celebrities change their look overnight? How do they always have thick, luscious locks? What is their secret?

The good news is that you too can have gorgeous hair – with human hair extensions. Perth is home to some of the finest hair extension salons in Australia.
Few of us realise just how much our favourite celebrities rely on hair extensions to look the way they do. Here are some basics about this method of enhancing one's look:

•Extensions are used to both add length and volume to the hair (some celebrities with thick, shoulder-length hair are actually wearing extensions!)
•Just three inches (seven to eight centimetres) of natural hair length is needed to get hair extensions


•There are numerous methods of applying hair extensions: braiding, glue, tape, weave, clips, or beads. Some are "permanent" (glue, beads, weave) while others can be removed or reapplied on a daily basis (clip).


•Colour or highlights can be quickly and temporarily added to the hair using extensions


•If applied properly, hair extensions are not painful.
Hair extensions range widely in expense, depending on the method of application, how much hair you get, and the type of hair used. They can also, depending on the type of extension chosen, take a considerable time to apply. Synthetic hair extensions are much cheaper than human hair extensions. (Perth salon Perth Hair Extensions, for example, uses only human hair of the highest quality and applies using tape. This is arguably the optimal method for preserving the health of your natural hair and scalp, while having some longevity in your product).
•What should you ask before you get a hair extension?


•Is the hair 100% human or synthetic?


•How will it be applied?


•How heavy will it be?


•How long will it last?


•Will it be damaging to my natural hair?


•Will it look natural?


•How do I care for the extensions?
There are some things to avoid when getting hair extensions. Most importantly, it is recommended that one avoid getting extensions that are heavier than the natural hair. This can cause damage and breakage. Natural hair must provide a healthy and strong "canvas" for extension application.

How do you care for hair extensions?

•Treat then as you would real hair – but gently


•Use an extension-specific brush (available from your salon) so extensions are not damaged


•Wash with a gentle shampoo and cool water


•Condition lightly


•Sleep with hair tied in a loose ponytail or braid to avoid knotting or matting
With some care and attention, the right hair extensions for you can be a great beauty investment. Chat to your local salon about whether they specialise and have experience in applying extensions, and choose a professional whose work speaks for itself.