Great Lengths Goes Country!

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

Country music's Julianne Hough has abandoned her trademark short, chic hairstyle for lush long blond hair extensions. The hair extensions she used were from Great Lengths, a popular choice of celebrities. Her reasons are said to be in preparation for a pre-concert event for Beyonce's "Mrs. Carter" tour in Los Angeles, California.

Julianne Hough

Julianne Hough is certainly not the first celebrity to use hair extensions, and not the first to select Great Lengths quality hair extensions. As owner of a hair salon that specializes exclusively in hair extensions in San Antonio, Texas, I have noted that Great Lengths took quite awhile to grow in popularity here. Women in San Antonio seemed to dabble first with clip-ons, then as they grew tired of the high maintenance and damage caused by use of clip-ons, began exploring what the options are for more permanent hair extensions.

Many start out asking for the less expensive, lower quality hair extensions. Usually after a friend or acquaintance who has used one of the better hair extensions such as Great Lengths or Hair Dreams, they're wanting to upgrade. Once you use the better quality hair extensions, you'll never want to go back to lesser quality extensions. You can feel the difference, and you'll most likely notice the difference in how the hair "wears".

My advise is to seek out an experienced stylist who has certification with brand name hair extensions, and has the experience to back up her training. There is no substitute for experience in this specialty. Hair extensions are an investment and like any big investment you make, you want to make a good one.

We'll take a look at the differences in more detail in an upcoming article. In the meantime, what do you think about Julianne's new hair?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

2014 Color of the Year Named Radiant Orchid

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

News broke today that the fashion world has named Radiant Orchid as Color of the Year for 2014. Fashion-conscious women across the United States are being encouraged to wear this color, not only as a sign of the holiday season, but as a fashion statement. We're not only seeing the color pop up on the celebrity scene, it is already making headway into mainstream fashion and it will be making a huge impact on upcoming fashions for us all very soon.


The good news is it is a truly beautiful gemstone color! The troubling news is that this is sometimes a difficult color for many. While it can sometimes wash out complexions on fair skinned women, mixed in with blonde hair extensions, or used on hair extension tips, it can create a very flattering look. The orchid color can create an exotic look on dark and olive skinned women. Orchid colors actually does look nice on all eye colors, and has long been used as a complimentary eye shadow color. 

As far as clothing fashion, it can be problematic when trying to coordinate with other clothing colors, but will make an outfit "pop" when you get it right. It will undoubtedly be very popular because designers will be putting it out there this season. We're already noting its presence in clothing this winter.

The exact Pantone color selected for this year's award was PANTONE® 18-3224 TPX Radiant Orchid.  

According to Pantone's own site, Radiant Orchid is, "An enchanting harmony of fuchia, purple and pink undertones, inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm."

The perception, and in fact the use of the color purple throughout history has been one of sophistication and royalty. There are several major fashion manufacturers who are using Pantone's newest shade of choice. New beauty collections based on the new color of the year for 2014 are forming now.

And, we're not only seeing the trend in fashion and clothing. It is already beginning to make its mark in interior design and decorating. Unlike last year's color Emerald Green, this year's choice is one that can make a statement in home or office decorating. A pop of Radiant Orchid is sure to elicit attention and drama to any interior.

I like the newest color and think it works great with hair extensions! I know I will have some of my San Antonio clients who want to make a statement and have a strand or two of Radiant Orchid locks added to their regular hair extensions. The Flow Strands offered by Great Lengths will surely rock with Orchid tips!

The continuing trend of using vibrant colors with hair extensions makes this a great offering to kick off 2014. It's bold and it's beautiful. Let me know what you think!

REFERENCES / RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION
Extensions of Yourself - Hair Extensions Generate Buzz with Colorful Controversy
Extensions of Yourself - How to Choose the Right Hair Color
Extensions of Yourself - Flow Strands from Great Lengths Offer Brilliant Transitioning Color

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 
Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Great Lengths Provides Quality Hair Extensions

Great Lengths has been one of the top human hair extension providers for many years. One of the reasons is the methods they use for processing their hair.

Human hair extensions come in many varying degrees of quality. Why does quality matter? Poorer quality hair extensions may save you money at the start, but they tend produce split ends and dry, brittle hair that doesn't hold up well and will require that you remove and replace them more often. And, most importantly, the poor quality can usually always be seen, especially by those who wear, or have worn, quality hair extensions.

Quality hair extensions start with good hair and have strict methods for the way they process the hair to get it ready to deliver to the professional hair stylists who purchase it for their clients. Great Lengths had a recent write-up in Salon Today magazine. They interviewed Great Lengths' national program director, Brett Butcher, who explained how Great Lengths utilizes technology to help product their premium hair extensions.

The four steps which they claim are key to delivering one of the best hair extension products are sourcing, the pigmentation process, their own keratin bond, and the certification process for stylists. They do not use bleach or other harmful products in their pigmentation process, as some lower quality hair suppliers do.

In my San Antonio hair extension salon, I use only the top hair extensions from the top companies that provide the hair and certification for it's stylists. Great Lengths is one of these, and is a favorite for some of my clients. Many factors go in to my decision on which hair product is most appropriate for a client, among them is hair color desired, hair type needed, length of hair, texture, as well as budget. Great Lengths, Hair Dreams and other top hair products serve my needs well.

#Great Lengths

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 10 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Braids Continue Top Trend This Winter

Braids have been hot since summer, and it appears they're not going away anytime fast. This is a good time to experiment with creating braids, even if it's been years since you've done them. Today's braids certainly aren't for just kids anymore.

As I've written in previous articles, hair fashion trends can come and go quickly, but some are more lasting than others. This year, the lasting trend appears to be braids. And, they're getting fancier and more creative all the time.  Brush up on your braiding techniques and jump on board! This fashion trend is here, and it's HOT.

My San Antonio hair extension clients particularly like braids because of the diverse hair styles that can be worn with hair extensions. Whether it's a finished look, or a loose and sexy look, the possibilities are endless. Some sophisticated braids are woven into braiding 12 strands or more wide and are quite complex. But, even the simplest of braids done well can create a stunning look.

This week, StyleList came out with pics and instructions of three braid styles you may want to try. Check them out and let me know what you think!

RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Style List - 3 New ways to braid your hair like a boss

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past9 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and accord the hair of their dreams...thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Khloe Kardashian Setting New Hair Accessory Trend For Holidays

The Kardashian's are back in the news, and this time it's all about the hair. Khloe was recently spotted in Dubai wearing a festive Swarovski crystal hair comb, and it's catching the attention of the fashion watchers. It's cost, however, is enough to stop admirers dead in their tracks at a whopping cost of $1125!



crystal hair clip

There are a lot of options out there that don't cost nearly as much, and for women who wear human hair extensions, the use of clips, headbands and other accessories can be a lot of fun....if you know what to look for and even more important, what to avoid. Some clips can be very damaging to hair extensions, as they can pull on bonds and even cause breakage.

Stretchy cloth headbands, scarves and scrunchies top the list for hair accessories that are friendly to hair extensions. Now that we're into Winter, hats are always a popular and fashionable choice even in San Antonio. Hair accessories that don't work so well would include any type of hair comb, metal clips and non-covered hair elastics which can all cause severe breakage and weaken hair extension bonds. If you do opt for metal clips, make sure that the edges are smooth and rounded. Try not to place them where near the bonds. As a general rule of thumb, if you feel your hair pulling, reposition your hair accessory. Pulling or pinching means that your hair is being stressed.

An experienced hair extension artist can help advise you on appropriate types of hair accessories, and can help find styles that you can wear to change the look of your hair extensions. Women who have worn shorter hair for years often need help with putting their hair up once they have hair extensions put in. It may feel awkward at first, and even things others take for granted like blow dryers and flat irons can seem difficult at first. Your stylist is a great resource for tips on hair care and styling for your new hair extensions.

RESOURCES:
Jennifer Behr - Hair Accessories
sheknows.com - 6 Hot hair accessories for summer
latesthairstyles.com - Winter Hair Accessories

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.



Holiday Hairstyles For Women With Hair Extensions

We're into holiday season, and women with hair extensions can really do a lot with the extra length and volume that extensions give. It's no wonder they're so popular.

In my next article, we took a look at hair accessories that can turn your hair extensions ultra glam, as well as keep long tresses tame. Today, in the spirit of upcoming holidays and the inevitable parties and social gatherings, I bring you several stunning looks you may like to try.

Some of the interesting hairstyles hot for the 2013 holiday season can be seen in these photos from pinterest.com:

This beautiful bun is a combination that really works for an elegant look.

  

Don't forget about hair color as an extremely useful styling option. There are so many fascinating uses of color emerging to fit just about any style wish you can think of. Just look at this gorgeous blend that resembles a fox's tail.

And, don't forget, braids continue their hot trend, becoming quite complex and beautiful in the process. While braiding takes time to master, the results can be well worth the effort. Updo's aren't the only trendy holiday style. Don't be afraid to take your hair extensions to new lengths by wearing your hair long.

An interesting and pretty variation of the bun, called the "rose bun", was posted in a video on StyleList. Follow the step by step instructions for a different look.

Wishing you all the best for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Remember, it's not ALL about the food!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions. Melissa is a Certified Brazilian Blowout stylist who has used Brazilian Blowout on her clients for several years.

Hairdreams Hair Extensions used in movie The Hunger Games

Hairdreams announced today that Christopher Dove used Hairdreams hair to create more than 200 wigs and hair pieces for the movie.

Hollywood celebrities are certainly not new to the quality found in Hairdreams hair extensions, but this project is huge in scope and diversity. The screenshot of the release on fanpop.com shows just a small sampling of the styles created for The Hunger Games.

Christopher Dove is co-owner of The Doves Studio in Santa Monica, California. He and his wife Sonya are widely recognized as one of the hair industry's most sought-after stylists. They had been selected to provide hair services for the movie, and selected Hairdreams as their choice of hair for use in the wigs and hair pieces specially designed for the movie.

Hairdreams provides some of the highest quality 100% human hair for hair extensions available worldwide. I use Hairdreams at my specialty salon, Extensions of Yourself, for my San Antonio hair extension clients who prefer the very best.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions. Melissa is a Certified Brazilian Blowout stylist who has used Brazilian Blowout on her clients for several years.

Hair Extensions for Men in San Antonio?

Yes, the number of men who are coming into specialty hair extension salons is starting to grow, especially in areas of the U.S. where longer hair fashions for men are more popular. But will this trend ever reach San Antonio?




Male hair
extensions

This may sound funny to some, but for many men who are in fashion, acting, and other occupations where looking trendy sells, it is growing FAST. New York city stylists are reporting more and more men loving the convenience of hair extensions, and they're opting for the best...quality human hair extensions that are bonded to their own hair. No clip-ins will do here!

Today's headlines are even talking about a weekend football game where a player had his dreadlocks pulled out by another player. Many sources are alleging that the dreadlocks were actually hair extensions! And, yes, there is talk that Hollywood celebs like Brad Pitt and other men have worn them. Now, what about here in San Antonio, Texas?

In my San Antonio specialty salon, Extensions of Yourself, I have received calls from men inquiring about hair extensions, but usually their hopes were that the hair extensions would solve their problem of male pattern baldness, not necessarily for making a fashion statement! While creating human hair extensions for men is basically the same process as when I create lengthening or thickening hair strands for women, applying hair extensions for men with short hair does pose a level of difficulty that not all stylists know how to deal with. Because I see a large number of women who have short and/or thinning hair, sometimes due to medical conditions and the treatments they receive for their illnesses, I deal with these more difficult installations a lot. That said, I think that it will take some time for this New York trend to move its way into San Antonio, but you never know. Women certainly love their hair extensions once they try them, and there's no reason to believe that men won't as well!

RESOURCES:

New York Daily News - Hair extensions help men go to new lengths in getting good looks

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions. Melissa is a Certified Brazilian Blowout stylist who has used Brazilian Blowout on her clients for several years.

Menopausal Women Can Find Relief In Hair Extensions

Let's face it, growing old is not easy. While some complain about the added weight, the new-found wrinkle, or the loss of firmness in our bodies, those with thinning hair seem to be particularly bothered, especially if they once had beautiful thick hair in their youth.

Photo Credit: dailymail.co.uk

In my San Antonio specialty salon, I deal exclusively with hair extensions and the women who seek them out for a variety of reasons.

These can include cosmetic reasons (of course), which include those who simply want them because they're popular and they want to have longer, thicker hair quick and easy. There are also those women who experience hair loss because of medication and/or medical treatments. One group less talked about, however, are women who suffer from age-related hair loss due to hormones (or lack of).

Hormones and the awful "M" word . . . menopause. Menopause can cause a wide variety of extremely annoying symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, thinning of the skin and many more. It can also lead to dramatic changes in your hair. In addition to growing hair in places you didn't have it before, it can also leave you without hair where you cherish it the most...on your head!

I recently came across a funny article written by a woman in the U.K. who was dealing with this very problem. My mother is at "that age", and I thought it might cheer her up knowing that the symptoms she has are really "not that bad" compared to what some women go through. The article is truly funny and it did make her laugh while reading it. But, for those going through hair loss or thinning hair the matter is not so funny.

Menopausal women DO have choices if they are bothered by their hormonal hair loss and want a lasting remedy. Quality human hair extensions can be used to create volume and/or length. Hair color is matched to your own hair, whether or not you color your hair or have chosen to let the gray shine. Be sure to ask for a licensed hair stylist who has both the specialized certification in hair extensions, as well as the experience needed to deal with the special demands that thinning hair has.

RESOURCES:
Mandy Appleyard's menopause Diary: My hair's Lovely and Thick. Pity it's on my face!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions. Melissa is a Certified Brazilian Blowout stylist who has used Brazilian Blowout on her clients for several years.

HOT Hair Colors For Fall 2013

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

Great news awaits for women who like hair color. The Fall 2013 fashion scene predicts a wide range of flattering hair colors for blondes, brunettes and redheads!

See the link below to see some of the celebrities who are sporting this season's most fashionable and trendy hair colors. For women who like wearing hair extensions, the news is even better because extensions come in so many hair colors, textures, lengths and application methods.

While not every hair stylist knows how to install quality hair extensions, experienced hair extension artists should also be experts in color and color-matching. If you see a look you like, bring a photo to your next appointment!

ARTICLE REFERENCE:
POPSUGAR Beauty - Hair Color Ideas

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions. Melissa is a Certified Brazilian Blowout stylist who has used Brazilian Blowout on her clients for several years.

Woman With Record-breaking Dreadlocks Refuses Medical Treatment To Keep Her Hair

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

We typically don't make a mindful decision to let things get out of hand or develop what could be seen as obsessive-compulsive behavior that could in fact harm us.

Asha and her dreadlocks

I recently came across a story of a woman who holds the world record for having the world's longest dreadlocks on the television show The Doctors.

Apparently Asha Mandela has been diagnosed with colon cancer, and was advised by her doctors to cut her 19 foot long / 39 pound  dreadlocks so that she could follow through with recommended medical treatments. The woman has chosen instead to avoid the treatment and keep her beloved locks in place, much to the distress of her advisers, friends and family.

You may remember I first wrote about Asha last February when she appeared on television talking about her addiction to her own hair. At that time, she claimed 21 foot long hair. Asha has been growing her hair for over 25 years, and it is very much a part of her. As she explains, "I didn't plan on growing my hair this long. Once I accepted it it's like it took on a life of it's own."

Having specialized in hair extensions for over ten years, I understand a woman's desire to have nice hair. It's part of what makes us feel feminine and attractive. But, at the same time, I've yet to encounter any client who has been so obsessed with their hair that they are willing to put their own personal safety - or their life - on the line. What do you think? 

Overboard Obsession or Understandable Decision?

ARTICLE REFERENCE / FOR MORE INFORMATION:
aol.com - Dreadlocked Woman Chooses Hair Over Health
EOY - Woman With 21 Foot Long Hair...Addiction To Her Own Hair

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Melissa is also a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Fall 2013 Brings Exciting Change

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

With the Fall season comes cooler weather and a chance to really enjoy having long, beautiful hair! It is also a time for a possible change in products, as with cooler temperatures come different styling problems, static issues and the need for air drying our hair so we don't feel the chilling effects of the cold.

I'm particularly excited about Brazilian Blowout's newest product designed to effectively eliminate and control split ends. The new product will be available starting next week in my San Antonio salon, and I'll be booking appointments on a first-come first-serve basis. I already have more calls coming in with women wanting a bit of extra length in their hair extensions now that the summer heat is beginning to fade. I expect that this San Antonio hair extensions trend will continue to grow as the extreme heat we've experienced in Texas this year finally subsides.

I'll be bringing news of the latest Fall trends in the upcoming weeks so I hope you stay tuned!

New Professional Treatment For Split Ends Now Available in San Antonio

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist
Certified Brazilian Blowout Stylist

The makers of the world-famous hair treatment "Brazilian Blowout" have done it again with a terrific new product that is all the rage! Brazilian Blowout's new treatment for split ends is a remarkable new treatment just being released to salons nationwide after rave reviews in select salons which have tried it. What makes this treatment different is that you see results that last.

As a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist and because I've had great results using Brazilian Blowout for years, I jumped at the chance to try their new product and now have it available in my San Antonio salon. Once you try this new product you're going to love it! It can make your dry, brittle-looking hair shimmer and shine. You'll notice that your hair styles much easier, looks smooth and polished, and feels light, bright and beautiful! In other words, unbelievably healthy hair.





Before Treatment
Photo Credit: American Salon



After Treatment
Photo Credit: American Salon





You already know if you have a problem with split ends because you probably can't help but to pick at them. It's an addicting check to see how bad they've become, and until now, a problem with no real effective remedies other than to cut them off.

As I wrote in my April 2012 article on split ends, "The damage to your hair will come when you tear away at the split ends. Pulling them apart actually makes the problem much worse. Instead of having small splits, you may end up with long lengths of hair that has been thinned by pulling the split apart. This thinned out hair shaft is more apt to tangle. It may also break off entirely, leaving you with shorter hair that is more prone to even more splits. Remember, any type of 'break' is not 'clean' or blunt, like a cut with scissors. Some people acquire hair so damaged that a single hair shaft may have multiple splits on it."

The new Professional Split End Repairing Treatment is an effective solution and is now available in San Antonio at Extensions of Yourself specialty salon in Stone Oak. Set the trend - repair your split ends and enjoy beautiful, healthy looking hair!

RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
EOY - Picking Your Split Ends Can Damage Your Hair
EOY - Popularity of Brazilian Blowout Soars
EOY - Sleek, Smooth and Polished Hair Predicted as HOT fashion trend for Spring 2013

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions. Melissa is a Certified Brazilian Blowout stylist who has used Brazilian Blowout on her clients for several years.

Preventing Dry, Brittle, Dull Hair

by Melissa White

Licensed Hair Stylist

Certified Hair Extension Artist

You wouldn't ever think of sticking your hand on a hot stove, or your head in a hot oven. You simply wouldn't want to damage your skin by doing either of these. But, its amazing that we just don't think of the damage we do to our hair every time we blow dry or use curling irons or flat irons on our hair.

You wouldn't stick your hand on this!

Your hair is basically made up of proteins and moisture. Every time you apply any type of heat to your hair, it removes that moisture and the luster and shine. Some women use heat appliances on a daily basis and are at extreme risk of damaging their hair. But, many don't know that even infrequent use of blow dryers, flat irons and heated curlers can cause dull, dry, brittle and frizzy hair.

While proper use of hair styling equipment can minimize damage, there are also great products designed to help protect your hair when you use them. They generally work when a light coating is applied over clean hair. The products seal your hair cuticle, helping to form a barrier between your hair and the direct heat. Some people refer to these protectants as the sunscreen equivalent to your hair.

There are many heat protectant products available, and like most haircare products, you need to consider the type of hair you have, your preferred hairstyle, as well as the type of styling equipment you use to achieve that style. Some products give hold, others don't. Some require application on dry hair, others are applied to wet hair. Some are even specially formulated for color treated hair.

I believe it is best to check with your stylist for recommended products, after all, he/she knows your hair best. While all products are designed to work, you want to invest in only those that will work for you.

Single Strand Of Hair Can Reveal Stress and May Become Predictor of Heart Disease

by Andrea L. Algar
Contributing Author

We've known for a long time that hair retains chemical traces of what we eat and drink. DNA scientists are able to use hair to identify the unique identifiers that each of us have in our hair. A recent study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism have now linked high levels of cortisol in seniors to a higher risk of heart disease, demonstrating that stress indeed may make us more prone to cardiovascular problems, and they're now able to determine stress levels by looking at hair!

Microscopic view of a hair strand
Photo Credit: nisenet.org

Cortisol, a stress hormone which can be found in hair, was analysed after hair samples were taken from the heads of 283 research participants aged 65 to 85. Researchers were able to examine their cortisol levels over the prior three months, and found that those "with high cortisol levels were more likely to have a history of coronary heart disease, stroke, peripheral artery disease and diabetes," according to the report by Everyday Health.

Dr. Laura Manenschija of Erasmus Medical Center in the Netherlands, said in a news release from the Endocrine Society, "Because scalp hair can capture information about how cortisol levels have changed over time, hair analysis gives us a better tool for evaluating that risk." Now that a link has been demonstrated, more research will undoubtedly be done to see if a reliable predictor can be established, and use that for both prevention and treatment for seniors (and perhaps others) at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Melissa White, owner of Extensions of Yourself, a San Antonio salon which specializes in human hair extensions, isn't surprised by the news. She explains, "It is very important for me to assess the condition of my client's hair during my initial consultation. I often see women whose hair reveals poor diet, stress or other issues that can lead to hair that is severely damaged. It's especially evident when the client has been 'doing everything right' and they still have problems with their hair. That damage can affect the hair extensions they want put in so I want to bring their own hair back to health if I can.

"I know from personal experience that stress can lead to hair thinning and even hair loss. My own hair loss began when my dad was critically ill. I now know that the stress I endured not only affected my hair, but probably put me at risk for depression, eating disorders and maybe even heart disease, which is frightening. Thankfully, that stress is behind me and only my hair suffered, but I know I need to watch my stress."

White went on to say that her goal in assessing stressed hair in her clients is to get them on a healthy track so that they have the best possible experience with their hair extensions. Her goal is to get their own hair healthy so that the hair extensions look better and last longer. She states, "Using quality hair care products, eliminating excessive heat styling, using hair friendly hair accessories, and looking at ways to reduce damage to your hair will pay off with better looking hair that won't be damaged by hair extensions. Reducing how often you shampoo, using cooler water for your shampoo and air-drying a bit before styling are all things that are quite easy to do and will noticeably improve your hair." Drinking plenty of water to flush contaminates from your body (and hair), as well as vitamins that can promote healthy hair are things she thinks is helpful as well.

REFERENCE:
Everyday Health - Seriously Stressed? Hair Analysis Tells All, Study Finds (VIDEO)

Can Hair Extensions Become An Addiction?

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

I read an article today that I loved. Let's face it, I read anything and everything I can about hair extensions because it is my specialty. It's my passion and I want to be up to date on everything about their use. The article that inspired me today was written by a young black woman, Erikka Yancy, a documentary filmmaker who told the story of how she had discovered weaves, a form of hair extensions commonly used by black or African-American women.



Hair Weaves
Photo Credit: frankiedextensionsandmore.com

 My article isn't about race, or about hair weaves in particular, but rather how good hair extensions can make us feel, and how they can improve the quality of our daily lives. But, reading these articles made me question whether it can it also be a double-edge sword...an addiction? Ms. Yancy, writes her story of how she may have crossed the line into "addiction" to her hair extensions.

After reading her story, and other stories where women spoke of hair addictions, I was left with the feeling that what they were speaking of wasn't a true "addiction" in the true sense of the word, but rather that they were addicted to the positive feelings that having hair extensions gave them. This I could understand because I hear it all the time from women who get a tremendous sense of confidence as well as feelings of self-worth and happiness once they try hair extensions.

I would think that a true hair extension "addict" would not feel comfortable without wearing their hair extensions, and would go to any length necessary to get new hair when needed or desired. They would feel self conscious, very uncomfortable, and perhaps even see themselves as "ugly" when they are not wearing them. They would avoid going out of their homes when not wearing their hair, and may even have severe anxiety or even panic attacks. They quite possibly would avoid paying bills, rent or even steal in order to obtain their hair! If this happened to someone, I imagine I'd say that their hair obsession had become a problem, but I haven't met anyone with this outlook towards their hair extensions.

Hair extensions have become a trend that has made it's way into the lives of everyday people. They're no longer just for the rich-and-famous or the Hollywood elite. For those who choose to wear hair extensions, although the reasons for wearing them can be as diverse as the women wearing them, I believe the women get great satisfaction and enjoyment from wearing them. And why not! In the same way that cosmetic surgery is a common trend for both men and women from all different walks of life; the desire for hair extensions is continuing to grow. I'm happy to say that the clients I meet have a healthy attitude about hair extensions and handle them responsibly!

RESOURCES:
HuffPost's Black Voices - Erikka Yancy: Confessions Of A Hair Weave Addict
healthkicker.com - My Strange Addiction To Hair Extensions

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Melissa is also a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

How Hairspray Has Evolved

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

I'm too young to remember the hairspray hysteria of the 50's and 60's, but I remember stories my mom told me about how her mother and all the other mom's of that era dosed on the hairspray in order to achieve the beehive hairstyles so popular back then. It actually sounds comical until you do a little research into the phenomenon.



Modern Beehive

 The beehive hairdo has actually made a comeback, with several celebrities including Jennifer Lopez and Beyonce giving a fresh new look to the 1950's craze. Jacqueline Kennedy's fashion sense certainly sparked a generation of women who became addicted to the use of a marvelous spray which could flawlessly keep your hairdo in place for an entire day (and made the beehive possible at all). Hairspray allowed stylists (then known as hairdressers) to create incredible height and body with styles that were as big as they were elaborate.

So, exactly how did hairspray get it's start?

Hairspray was first used by Helene Curtis in 1950 for its new product they called Spray Net. Aerosol sprays were actually invented during World War II when they were used to kill insects. After the war ended, the beauty industry discovered the benefit of pressurized spray for its products.

By the mid 1950's, hairspray had caught on like wildfire and competition to Helene Curtis products flourished. Floors in every home and hair salon soon had the tell-tale sticky residue covering them. The use of pressurized sprays also caught on with antiperspirants and other personal care products as well until the 1970's when chloroflurorocarbon aerosols were found to be harmful to the ozone. As these products were phased out, hairspray manufacturers found alternative "aerosol-free" methods to deliver products, and most of the products used today are environmentally much safer.

One thing that has changed over the decades since hairspray was invented is the wide variety of sprays from ones that leave your hair very manageable and "touchable" to heavy-hold sprays that lock your hair tightly in place until it is washed out. Even men have gotten into the act and are enjoying the use of hairsprays and other hair care products that women have been using for decades. Hairstyles along the way have certainly influenced the popularity of certain sprays, and this leaves us with an incredible array of choices. From long and natural to spiked mohawks, hairspray has a purpose in our daily haircare routines.

Hairspray can even be extremely helpful to those who wear hair extensions. Today's products are far less sticky and are no where near as harmful as the early sprays. What is a challenge, however, is determining which product is best for your hair and the hair style that you are trying to create. While you might have been able to get away with a single can of your preferred spray back in the 60's, your beauty arsenal probably has at least several different hair sprays now.  I recommend reviewing your products with your stylist to help determine what product(s) are best for your hair and the hairstyles you prefer to wear.

REFERENCES:
Google Books - book excerpt: Hair Styling/Fixative Products in Hair and Hair
ehow.com - The History of Hairspray Products
madehow.com - Hairsproy
stylelist.com - The Story Behind Hairspray

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Melissa is also a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Tips For Drying and Styling Very Curly Hair

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

The grass is always greener on the other side, and hair is probably what created the saying. Those with straight hair want curly, and those with curly would die for stick straight hair. It's the way it's always been, and will probably always be, even with advent of fantastic products that actually do make the job of transitioning hair into something we could learn to love.

What is hard is finding the tips and tricks of the trade that 1) work, and 2) are something you can actually do yourself at home. Being a hair stylist is quite handy because we can usually adapt methods to creatively do things ourselves. Let's face it, it's always easier when you have a separate set of hands to do the work for you.

Today, I found a short video I think you'll like because it's extremely practical, with easy to do suggestions that anyone with extremely curly hair can use to create a nice look.

Although those who wear human hair extensions have special considerations, the methods will work nicely for many because the gentle drying is good for the extensions. If you do wear hair extensions, be sure to ask your extension stylist to help you with drying and styling tips for your particular hair type, the style you like to wear, weather conditions in the area of the country you live, etc.

Check it out here:  VIDEO: Tips For Curly Hair

Have fun experimenting to create a look you'll love!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Melissa is also a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Old Wives Tale or Fact - Can Gelatine Really Help Your Hair?

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

I can remember by mother telling me that gelatine is good for your hair. She said that her mother and grandmother swore by using Knox Gelatine, but wasn't quite sure why.

True, gelatine is a protein, and hair loves protein. I've done some looking around and found that not only is it said that using gelatine promotes a strong healthy head of hair, but it can also save you money.

By blending a packet of unflavored, or "original" gelatine into your bottle of shampoo, your shampoo will thicken and you won't need to use as much for each shampoo. Your hair will love the extra protein and the mixture doesn't change the effectiveness of your shampoo or leave any unpleasant stickiness or residue.

The recipe:

• 1 cup water
• 1 packet Knox Gelatine, unflavored
• 14-16 oz shampoo

You'll probably want to squeeze out all of your shampoo into a large mixing bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, then use a funnel to put back into your shampoo bottle or other container.

Gelatine is also great for your fingernails, and a once-weekly soak in a bowl of hot water/packet gelatine is a great start to a very beneficial manicure.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Melissa is also a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

What's In Store For Hair Fashion In Summer 2013?

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

We often look to European fashion runways to predict what trends will emerge here in the United States. True-to-form, Marie Claire, has put out some fashion trends it sees as shaping hair beauty for the upcoming Summer 2013 season.



Photo Credit: marieclaire.com





Intrigued?

A new way to highlight the part in your hair - duct tape!


While some styles are a throw-back to 80's and 90's styles or even before, there are variations that make them quite unique. These looks are being described as "low-key" and rather effortless compared to some of the more recent looks we've all spent hours trying to recreate.

Here's some of the amazing predictions.
(for full story, see link below):
Scroll through and let me know what you think.




"Scrunchies" are back - They wrote the book on effortless!

Bedhead/beachwave combo

Just how to describe this! - Not quite in keeping with "effortless"

Brightly colored extensions with huge loose updo

Messy fishtail braid attempts to look effortless

New twist on a twist



The turban - a throwback to the 70's

Time will tell if these European fashions make their way to America. Look for trends to start emerging in women's magazines over the next month or two. In the meantime, if you see something you like, don't be afraid to be out on the cutting edge!

REFERENCE:

marieclaire.co.uk - Summer Hair 2013: All You Need To Know

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Melissa is also a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Picking Your Split Ends Can Damage Your Hair

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

Many of us can't help but pick at the split ends of our hair, or at least pick through our hair to check for them! And, once you start watching for split ends, it can be hard to keep your hands from picking at them. But, like many other habits we find ourselves locked into, this behavior can lead to dreaded consequences.



Checking for split ends
Photo Credit: leimo.co.uk

The damage to your hair will come when you tear away at the split ends. Pulling them apart actually makes the problem much worse. Instead of having small splits, you may end up with long lengths of hair that has been thinned by pulling the split apart. This thinned out hair shaft is more apt to tangle. It may also break off entirely, leaving you with shorter hair that is more prone to even more splits. Remember, any type of "break" is not "clean" or blunt, like a cut with scissors. Some people acquire hair so damaged that a single hair shaft may have multiple splits on it.

If your hair is healthy, you shouldn't be too troubled by them. But, if you use heat appliances such as blow dryers and curling irons on high heat settings, you may see many more. If your hair is dry or brittle due to bleaching, coloring and/or hair treatments like perms, you may also be more prone to split ends. Even exposure to the sun can be very damaging to hair.

What can you do to prevent split ends? If you spend a lot of time outside, you might look for a quality shampoo containing sunblock. Use of good, quality hair products is essential so that your hair doesn't become excessively dry. Your hair stylist can recommend the correct products for your hair type and condition of your hair. It's worth the money to invest in good products. Brushing your hair with a quality brush is also a way to help avoid split ends. And, use heat appliances on the lowest settings possible to achieve your desired styling.

But what do you do if you see you're developing splits? Hair specialists advise to cut split ends rather than to pick at them and pull them apart. Seeing your stylist for small trims will usually keep split ends at bay, and would be more helpful to you than less frequent visits that take more off. Your stylist can help determine the ideal frequency for trims to prevent split ends after a couple of visits with you to determine how frequently they're popping up and how big the splits are.

One trick that is extremely effective is to take a small section of hair and twist it around and around to the ends. You'll see that your split ends will boldly stick out, allowing you to trim just what's necessary to remove the split. Removing the split with a very sharp pair of scissors will allow the hair to continue to grow without risk that the split will get longer and longer, leaving your hair at risk for breakage and more splits.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Melissa is also a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Amazing Hair Facts You Never Heard Before

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

Just when you thought you'd heard everything about hair! Discovery magazine published a list of 20 hair facts that are actually unique and interesting. So much so that I wanted to share them with my readers.



Fun Hair Facts



Here's a list of the facts, and if you want all the details, there's a link to the article below: 

1) Hair and Fur are both made from keratin

2) All mammals have hair at some point in their lives
3) Insects can have hair too
4) Some insects use leg hair to "hear" motion
5) Human hair can "taste"
6) Nose hair continue to pulse after death
7) Average person has 100,000 head hairs; 4.9 million elsewhere
8) Early humans are thought to have "shed" in cycles like dogs
9) Melanin was created to deal with the sun after we lost our fur
10) Scientists have found some Neanderthals were redheads!
11) Neanderthals also had blondes and brunette genes
12) 2006 research reported blonde children were more withdrawn and shy
13) Hair "knows" when you're awake or sleeping
14) Follicles plucked at different times of day reveal when genes most active
15) Hair can reveal where you've been
16) Unique chemical signatures in water you drink show up in your hair
17) Oily hair absorbs ozone seven times more than clean hair
18) Oily hair can create more respiratory irritants such as formaldehyde
19) It can be life-threatening to eat your hair
20) Astrobiologists may want to induce baldness for astronauts

REFERENCE:
Discover - 20 Things You Didn't KnowAbout ... Hair

ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

Melissa White is an experienced, licensed hair extension artist and stylist whose passion is to bring out the natural beauty in everyone by enhancing their own individual features with the use of exquisite hair extensions. Melissa has over 10 years of extensive training with the industries top hair extension companies in the newest techniques. Melissa is also a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist. Originally from Boston, Melissa has been in San Antonio for the past 8 years. She believes that everyone should be able to access and afford the hair of their dreams . . . thus the creation of Extensions of Yourself, San Antonio's first salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions.