Rising South African Hair Thefts Uncover Dreadlocks Being Sold As Dreadlock Hair Extensions

by Melissa L. White

Licensed Hair Stylist

Certified Hair Extension Artist

There's no doubt that hair extensions are sought after here in the United States as more and more women are electing to get them for a variety of reasons including bald or thinning hair, inability to grow hair long, or simply want fuller, longer hair. Hair extensions, in different forms, have been used for many years, and have been worn by women of all ages and many different ethnicities. Now, news out of a trend that is rapidly spreading in South Africa of dreadlock thefts.

The number of reports out of Johannesburg has been steadily growing. Both men and women have been assaulted, with thieves cutting or shearing off long dreadlocks as they bypass cell phones, wallets and other valuables. While women with long dreadlocks are typically targeted, men have been victims of the growing trend as well. The rash of thefts are being dubbed "cut and runs," and if you live in Johannesburg while sporting long dreadlocks, you could easily be targeted.

Johannesburg area hair stylists report that the rising popularity of natural dreadlock extensions is most likely the reason for the sharp increase in these crimes. Reports are that shoulder-length dreadlocks are sold for $22 to $77 each, with longer ones as high as $277. In this part of Africa, dreadlocks are becoming very popular and it has been reported that stylists can receive as many as ten requests per day from people wanting to lengthen their hair with dreadlocks!

Interestingly, the thefts are not being reported to the police, and it is apparently being assumed that the victims are too embarrassed to report theft of their hair, so little is being done to curtail the new phenomenon. It takes a long time to grow long dreadlocks, with many people investing ten years or more to achieve long dreads. When they lose them in this manner, it can be traumatizing.

Bob Marley's long
dreadlocks were easily
recognized

Dreadlocks even
appear at awards

Dreadlocks have reportedly been used in ancient times by the Egyptians and other cultures. As a matter of fact, dreadlocks are one of the oldest hairstyles worn. Jamaican star Bob Marley helped introduce dreadlocks to mainstream America, and perhaps helped to influence the popularity that took hold here. There are, in fact, dozens of famous people who wear or have worn dreadlocks. They include Hawaiian-born actor Jason Momoa. You'd recognize him from Atlantis Stargate, Baywatch, and Jason Family Vacation. Author of Waiting to Exhale and How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Terry McMillan also wears dreadlocks. You'll also recognize Whoopi Goldberg, boxer Lenox Lewis, baseball player Manny Ramirez, and Lil Wayne. And there are many more.

Dreadlocks do not always
appear dirty or unkempt

Here in the United States, dreadlocks are often worn as a statement by urban youth, whether they are black, white, hispanic or other ethnicities, and those that wear them do so by choice. They've been around for many years, and their popularity seemed to have hit its peak about 5-10 years ago.

Although many view dreadlocks as looking "dirty" or "unkempt" the men and women who choose to wear them devote a lot of time and attention to their hair, especially at the start, which is difficult. Most people keep their dreadlocks very clean.

As a hair stylist who specializes in hair extensions, I deal with women who understand the value of nice hair. I know first-hand how important it is to feel good about your hair, and what it's like to have to deal with thinning hair or a medical condition which leaves you unable to grow a long, full head of hair. I feel bad for anyone who is a victim of hair theft and hope that they can stop the thefts soon.

REFERENCE & RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:

digitaljournal.com - South African Hair Thieves Targeting Dreadlocks

dreadheadhq.com - The Ultimate Dreadhead Information Website!

dreadlocks.com - Dreadlock Facts & Rumors

ehow.com - How To Information About Dreadlocks (variety of articles)

ezinearticles.com - Are Dreadlocks Black Culture or a Unique Hairstyle For the Entire World?

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.

A Closer Look At Clip-In Hair Extensions

Melissa L. White

Licensed Hair Stylist

Certified Hair Extension Artist

Certified Brazilian Blowout Stylist

Clip-On hair extensions have an appeal to those who don't want to make a huge investment in quality keratin-bond extensions. Many younger women like the instant look they can get from a set of clip-in's that they can put in for a night out or a special event. But, even the highest quality clip-in's can cause big problems.



Clip-in Hair Extensions



 Let's not kid ourselves. Clip-in extensions tend to use hair that is not as high in quality as hair selected for keratin-bond hair extensions. Price usually dictates this, as the cost of higher quality hair cannot be recouped with clip-in pricing.

Hair used for clip-in extensions is often synthetic, or a combination of synthetic and poor quality human hair. (Just try flat ironing hair that is synthetic on high heat and you'll end up with a mess of gooey strands and a ruined flat iron!) When human hair is used, it is usually never true "remy" hair, and is hair that has usually been processed in order to achieve consistent coloring. Processed hair does not last as long without looking damaged, and will develop split ends, frizz from dryness, brittleness, and dullness.

Once you wear hair extensions, most women never want to give them up. They can give us the hair we've always dreamed of, and having them allows us to wear our hair and style our hair in ways we would never be able to without them. But, most women quickly tire of putting in and taking out their clip-in extensions on a daily basis. Even once you've become proficient at it, this is a process that can take a half hour or more depending upon how many wefts you use, and how big they are. Placement is critical in order to achieve a look that doesn't look like you're wearing them. They can look clumpy or show through depending on the style you wear them in. Up-do's are often very difficult.

And, clip-ins can actually cause more damage to your own hair than keratin-bond hair extensions. Because you tend to put them in the same position day after day you're stressing the hair with a block of hair that is quite heavy. This weight, anchored to your own hair strands, will cause cause breakage.

In my experience, when you do make the decision to try quality human hair extensions, you'll never want to go back to clip-on extensions again. While clip-ons might satisfy for the short-term, they're usually not the answer women stay happy with.

In San Antonio hair extensions continue to be a popular choice for women desiring longer, fuller hair, and the preferred choice appears to be quality hair extensions applied by certified salon stylists. Many of the women I see in my specialty salon remark that they've tried clip-in extensions and want a change that is better quality, more permanent, and that work better with busy lifestyles.

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.

Sisters Who Assaulted Woman Cut Off Her Hair For Revenge

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

A story broke today out of Dayton, Ohio on a crime that was uncomfortable to think about. I know so well that women work hard to grow their hair if they can, and when they can't, are often willing to spend thousands of dollars getting high quality hair extensions in order to enjoy beautiful, long hair. Apparently some see our love of hair as a great way to enact revenge on others.

It was reported in the Dayton Daily News that several women were involved in an assault which occured on a city bus Thursday. Three women, two of whom were sisters, grabbed a woman by the hair, hit her, then proceeded to pull a knife and cut off some of her hair. The victim and attackers were allegedly known to each other, and had experienced problems in the past. When the 18 and 24 year old sisters were apprehended by police, one admitted that it was retaliation for something in the past. Both sisters face charges of aggravated robbery which is a first degree felony.


Women Grab Hair When Fighting


The cutting of the victim's hair seemed strange and excessive to me, and caused me to reflect on my own experiences witnessing what happens when girls fight each other. Unlike the way men fight, it does seem that women tend to grab and pull hair! I've heard stories of high school girls getting into fights where they actually pull out handfuls of hair. This story is a reminder that there is very good reason to find better ways to settle differences.

Hopefully, fist fighting and having hair chopped off is not something that most of us will ever experience in our lifetime, and I certainly hope that I never hear of incidents like this here. In San Antonio, women seem to value wearing long hair whether it is grown naturally or achieved with hair extensions. It's a painful thing to think about.

REFERENCE:
Dayton Daily News - Police: Sisters cut off girl's hair during bus assault

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 Creating And Maintaining Trendy Straight Hair Styles

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

 

For those who don't have naturally straight hair, recent trends of sleek, polished, straight hairstyles leave an them feeling cheated and envious of those who do. You know - the grass always looks greener on the other side - and as much as we know that women with straight hair look jealously at those who have gloriously curly hair that's full of body and bounce, it's hard not to feel slighted.

I know that try as you might, it can be extremely difficult to maintain the look of super straight long hair despite the hours of elaborate steps you take. In San Antonio straight hair can be extremely difficult because of the heat and humidity. But, the job can be simplified if you follow just a few basic steps I've outlined below. Of course, these are general rules of thumb that will need to be tweeked for your hair type, length and condition of hair.

• Use products that are appropriate for straight hair
• Consider smoothing treatments such as the Brazilian Blowout
• Consider quality hair extensions for needed length
• Buy a quality blow dryer
• Use your flat iron at the right temperature
• Practice, practice, practice
• Learn the "art" of wrapping your hair at night
• Use products that will help hold your straight look
• Keep your hairbrushes clean

Straight hair actually catches light and reflects it more than wavy or curly hair, which can often make straight hair look healthier, shinier and longer! The beauty of wearing straight hair is it's ability to transform your entire look quickly and easily. The challenge then becomes how to keep that look going all day, despite conditions that tend to make our hair "pop" back into frizz and curls.



Beautiful Straight Hair



The best way to ensure that you're using the right hair products is to talk over your routine with your hair stylist. Go beyond just a quality shampoo and conditioner, and consider the products that you'll need before and after your blowdry and flat iron styling. First, you want the right product that will help protect your hair from the drying effects of drying and styling your hair. Then you want to maintain the look you've created, you'll definitely need the right type of products that will help it last all day.

Your stylist can recommend products that are most appropriate for your hair if you explain the look you're shooting for. Remember, products that work well for a full head of beachy waves won't work well for the long straight hair look, so it will require an additional investment in more products. Knowing this in advance, and spending your money on the right products will end up saving you money in the long run. I've known many women who've spent much more than needed because they've had to try so many different products that didn't work well. One of the products I like for just about any type of hair is the Acai Brazilian Dry Oil by Brazilian Blowout. It nourishes and reconditions as it leaves beautiful smooth hair.

The other consideration for the long straight hair style is to take the time to practice. Don't expect to master the look in a single attempt. It's not wise to attempt the look for the first time when getting ready for a big important event. Practice until you feel comfortable with your blowout technique, using a large round hairbrush and drying in small sections until the hair is completely dry in order to get your hair smooth. A tip not to overlook: take the time to keep your hairbrushes clean. This is important when trying to create a smooth, silky-smooth look.

Then, practice more with your flat iron. If you've got thin hair, you might not want to go all the way up to the root, but if your hair is kinky, you may need to. Use the fewest number of passes on each section. It's better to keep your sections small so fewer passes of the flat iron are used. This will help prevent damage to your hair. And, use the heat setting appropriate for your type of hair. You don't want to use the high settings unless your hair is very thick or course. Start low and slowly work your way up in heat until you find the setting that works in just a few passes.

One of the things that is often overlooked is what you do with your hair at the end of the day, after you've washed your face, applied your skin care products and are getting ready to retire for the evening. I'm used to providing my San Antonio hair extension clients with instructions on home care techniques for maintaining their hair extensions, and I've personally tried dozens of methods I've heard about over the years. While braiding and buns may work for hair extensions that may be curled, it won't work well if you're going for the stick straight look.

One method I've heard about is one that my grandmother actually used in her days. Women back in the days of the beehive hair-do used variations of this method. It's simple and it works. Remember hearing of satin hair bonnets? We've all heard that satin pillowcases are the best for maintaining beautiful skin, because the satin doesn't create wrinkles like cotton pillowcases. Back in the 1920's through 1950's, silk and satin bedding was extremely popular for this reason. And, they're great for hair because they don't cause kinks, wrinkles or tangles. So what do you do with your hair?

It's fairly simple once you do it a few times. Simply wrap your hair around your head using a good smoothing brush. Use a few bobby pins to keep the wrap in place as you work your way around your head. Cover your hair in a good satin scarf or a satin head wrap (look in specialty stores for wraps that velcro close). The wraps are easy and comfortable to sleep in and in the morning your hair just needs to be let down and brushed out. Apply a bit of smoothing product if needed and you're set for the day! Many women who use this technique can go days between shampoos which is great for your hair.

  

Being able to wear a hairstyle that shows off shiny, silky straight hair can definitely add to your arsenal of favorite looks that will be extremely popular this spring. Almost any type of hair can achieve the look with a couple of good tools, quality products, and practice.

 

RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:

EOY - Brazilian Blowout Wows With Full Compliment of Great Hair Care Products

EOY - Keeping Hairbrushes Clean Is Important And Can Be Easier Than You Think

EOY - Popularity of Brazilian Blowout Soars

EOY - Sleek, Smooth and Polished Hair Predicted as HOT Fashion 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. 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.

Woman With 21 Foot Long Hair Appears On TV Claiming Addiction To Her Own Hair

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

Television sure has it's strange moments, and the show "My Strange Addiction", which appears Wednesday nights on TLC, has more than most. Last night's show promo caught my eye, as it described a woman who has grown her hair an amazing 21 feet long! Her addiction is in growing her own hair.


Asha's 21 Foot Long Hair
Has Been Growing For 25 Years


The show goes on to introduce viewers to Asha, a woman who hasn't cut her hair in 25 years. She claims to use 24 bottles of shampoo each month in order to keep her hair clean, and wraps it atop her head like a giant bee-hive. She claims she is the Black Rapunzel, and she's apparently so attached to her hair that she's even named her hair, calling it "Mr. Cobra".

The show does point out that since Asha's hair weighs in at a hefty 25 pounds, doctors have warned her that nerve damage may develop from carrying around all that weight, saying that her head, neck and shoulders are stressed. But, as most of the show's unusual characters, Asha isn't ready to give up her "strange addiction".

Women I see at my San Antonio hair extension salon do take their hair seriously. I think most women want long beautiful hair. I've known some who have extraordinarily long hair, but none who've wanted their hair as long as this!

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.

Brazilian Blowout WOWS With Full Compliment of Great Hair Care Products

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

It's not very often that you find a manufacturer of a best selling product that follows through with a wide range of products that fully support that product. Brazilian Blowout has proven itself to be an exception, gaining recognition for the line of specialized hair care products that compliment and accentuate the Brazilian Blowout hair treatment.

Acai Brazilian Dry Oil
by Brazilian Blowout

The Brazilian Blowout received a great deal of recognition for it's Volume aftercare products designed for those who want fullness and volume with their Brazilian Blowout, and don't want to be limited to stick-straight hair. The product line it developed has steadily gained popularity among big stars in Hollywood, and is being used by more and more women across the country since it's recent release.

Now, the Acai Brazilian Dry Oil is making a splash with it's hair-smoothing dry oil. It made headlines on Daily Candy, and women trying the product are impressed with the products ability to leave hair silky, shiny  and smooth following blow drying. It is non-greasy yet has all the nutrients to keep your hair healthy between your Brailian Blowout treatments. That's because it is actually a reconstructive formula that strengthens and enriches your hair. It's great for damaged hair needing nourishment and TLC, something I see a lot in my San Antonio specialty salon.

"I use a small dot of the dry oil before I blow dry my hair and it leaves my hair so silky and smooth it's like I just got a freshen-up of my blowout. I don't get fly-aways when I wear my hair up, and no tangles when I wear it down," exclaimed Anna, a client I recently recommended the Acai dry oil to following a vacation in the sun that left her hair feeling dry.

Although it's important to use the right product for your particular hair type, it can be confusing to know which to choose. I recommend talking to a certified Brazilian Blowout stylist who is familiar with the range of products now being offered by the company that made "Brazilian Blowout" a household name and a sought after hair care service in San Antonio and across the country.

RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
EOY - Cold Weather and Extremes in Temperature Can Affect Hair Health
EOY - Popularity of Brazilian Blowout Soars As More Celebrities Show Off Amazing Hair
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.

At Home Compliance Is Crucial For Long-Lasting Extensions

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

 

I can't stress this enough. Taking care of your extensions at home is the most important thing you can do to ensure healthy looking, tangle free hair extensions. But, it is an area often neglected, forgotten or simply overlooked.


Tangled Hair Doesn't Need To
Happen With Hair Extensions


When a client calls me distraught that she has a bad case of tangles that just won't come out, of course I want to see her right away. My first question is always the same. "Have you been following the printed instruction sheet you received when your extensions were put in?" Although most answer, "Yes," without hesitation, my 10 years of experience often tell me otherwise.

 

When you see dozens of women each month, you know what to expect. There are time frames where different things happen with your own natural hair, and time frames for your hair extensions as well.

 

First, I emphasize the fact that the average person sheds 50-100 hairs each day. Some clients get alarmed when, in doing their routine maintenance, they see strands of hair bound into the individual extension bundle. These hairs are not attached to the scalp, and often a bulb is visible at the scalp end of the hair shaft. Most women assume that the hair has been pulled out of their scalp, and that this is being caused by the hair extensions. What is actually happening is that the hair has been shed. But, because it is included in the selected group of hairs that the extensions have been attached to, it cannot fall to the ground or get caught up in your hair brush, and remains attached to the keratin bond.

 

This is why I encourage all of my clients to come in for regular maintenance visits, which I call "tidy-up" visits. These are not very lengthy and involve me going through and removing these trapped hairs so that you maintain a clean, polished look to your extensions and minimize the risk for "wrap-around tangles" developing. I also like to check the condition of the bonds as well as the growth and condition of your hair.

 

This visit is an excellent opportunity to assess whether you'd like additional strands added, have existing strands moved, or altered as desired. You may also decide that you need a freshening of your roots or color, or a trim in addition to your "tidy-up".

 

What You Can Do At-Home to Extend the Life of Your Hair Extensions

 

This is my goal. I try to give you all of the information you need to be able to wear your hair extensions as long as possible, have them look great, and with proper care, even be able to reuse the extensions when you come in for a move-up visit where we reattach the strands as your own natural hair grows out. Here are some helpful tips:

 

• Wash your hair no more than three times per week
• Fully dry your hair extensions with your hair dryer on low to medium heat settings only.
• Never use the "hot" setting on your hair dryer.
• Brush your hair from the roots all the way to the end daily.
• Brush your hair using a paddle brush with protective tips.
• Use professional products recommended by your hair extension specialist.
• Wrap your hair or braid it when you sleep to prevent tangles.
• Call your stylist if you think you have a problem with split ends or tangles.
• And, above all else, come in regularly for your tidy-ups!

With a bit of at-home and in-salon care, your extensions can last a long time while looking absolutely beautiful.

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.

 

Give A Valentine's Day Gift of Beautiful, Smooth Hair AND Save 10%!

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

I've received calls at my salon from husbands or boyfriends of my hair extension clients at this time of year because Valentine's Day is right around the corner. They usually start out with, "My girlfriend loves her hair extensions and I want to give her something nice, but I have no idea what," or something similar. So, what can you give to someone who seemingly "has it all" and already has hair extensions?



Give the gift of beautiful hair
with the Brazilian Blowout
at San Antonio's specialty salon Extensions of Yourself

 My favorite response is Brazilian Blowout! Women with or without extensions just love this procedure, as it leaves them with smooth, silky, manageable hair. Most women find that their hair dries in a fraction of the time, and without the fluff, frizz and unruliness which is typical when hair dries naturally or, worse (since many women haven't mastered the art of blow drying), hair blown dry at home.

Simply put, the Brazilian Blowout is the most innovative and effective professional hair smoothing treatments. It improves the condition of your hair by creating a protective protein layer around the hair shaft which can smooth the cuticle of your hair and eliminate frizz. The end result is smooth, healthy looking hair with beautiful shine!

And, it happens that the Brazilian Blowout works great with hair extensions. It gives your hair the polished, silky look you want. Many of my clients notice that it helps their hair extensions blend beautifully with their own natural hair. The added benefit is that it can help lay a layer of protection for hair extensions.  I find that my clients who add Brazilian Blowout to their tidy-up visits enjoy their extensions longer than those that have not had the treatment.

Getting the Brazilian Blowout does not mean that you're stuck with stick straight hair! While you can certainly get one of the smoothest, straightest looks you've ever had, you can style with a curling iron, hot rollers, curlers, or other methods to produce waves, curls and body that is frizz-free and manageable. .

Discover why the Brazilian Blowout makes the perfect Valentine's Day gift! It will be appreciated by someone you care about. Mention this article and receive 10% off the Brazilian Blowout treatment with purchase by 02-21-13!

REFERENCES:
Extensions of Yourself - Popularity of Brazilian Blowout Soars 
Extensions of Yourself - Sleek, Smooth and Polished Hair Predicted as HOT Fashion 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.

Keeping Hairbrushes Clean Is Important And Can Be Easier Than You Think

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

Cleaning your hairbrush is usually looked upon as drudgery you'd rather avoid. It's messy, and many feel it's rather "icky". Dirt, bacteria, dandruff, hair oils, styling products and even allergens stubbornly cling to your brush and can create a mess and a health hazard. But cleaning hairbrushes (and most of us women have several), is usually an unpleasant idea and is put off. The truth is that most people don't even give it much thought.

 

Keeping Hairbrushes Clean
Is Extremely Important


A good, quality hairbrush can be expensive, but can last for years if properly maintained and cleaned. But, the way we clean the hairbrush is important. Done right, it can extend the life of a great hairbrush, keep you healthy, minimize allergens, and give you more manageability with your hair. Think of it, this is a tool we use at least once or twice each and every day. Keeping your hairbrush clean is essential.

Most of us have figured out a method of cleaning a hairbrush out of necessity - you know - your brush is just too full of hair and things have gotten so that you dread using it! Some people just pull the hair out by hand, a task much more difficult on round brushes than wide flat paddle brushes. Others have developed techniques of using tools such as a comb or handle end of a rat tail brush to pry the hair up and away from the base. They even have special tooks called a brush rake that makes the job a bit easier. Whatever method you may have developed, it usually always involves having to grab ahold of the hair to remove it from the brush.

Then, you have the unpleasant task of cleaning the brush. Again, methods vary and can be as simple as a quick rinse under the tap (not recommended), to an elaborate "bath" in a solution of soapy disinfectant. But what is the best method of cleaning your brush without ending up with a gooey, sticky mess?

Over the years, many methods have been used including shampoo, bath soap, vinegar soaks, baking soda scrubs, ammonia solutions, bleach and water soaks, and even people who have put their brushes into the dishwasher (which I wouldn't recommend as the extremely hot temps in dishwashers can actually melt handles and/or synthetic bristles)! Because you want some degree of disinfection, I recommend using a half and half solution of bleach and water, as this will kill off the bacteria which is sure to accumulate with use.

How you clean your brush will also be determined by the type of brush you're cleaning. If your brush has a wooden handle or has a fabric cushion head, don't soak it. Soaking it will damage wood, and can potentially cause mold on cushioned surfaces. Instead dip the brush in your cleaning solution and scrub against another brush, repeating the process several times to clean it, and allow at least 24 hours for the brush to dry, with the bristles facing down so that the cushion drains and dries completely. You can soak your brush for up to an hour if it does not have a cushion head or wood handle, then let it dry completely.

As a hair stylist who specializes in hair extensions, I handle brushes much more often than the average person, and I have a wide variety of brush sizes, shapes, bristle types, handles, etc., as I have to accommodate many different hair types and styling purposes. I know how important a quality brush is, and what a difference using a clean brush can make when styling hair. A clean brush renders a more polished, manageable, beautiful head of hair. When brushing through hair that has hair extensions, a good brush designed to be used on hair extensions is critical. The cleanliness of the brush can help prevent hair from catching and pulling on the extension bonds, weakening both the hair and the bond.

Here's a great tip to that can simplify the process of cleaning your brushes and will keep you from having to actually touch the old buildup of shed hairs, and it involves something you probably already have ready to throw out:

• Start with a new or clean hairbrush
• Grab an old pair of pantyhose or knee-highs
• Stretch a piece of the pantyhose tightly over your brush
• Trim around the brush, leaving a 1/4" to 1/2" border

Use your brush as normal, and when hair and/or styling products accumulate and it's ready to clean, simply pull up on the piece of pantyhose and all of the hair and styling products will lift effortlessly. You're left with a brush that's already pretty clean, and a quick cleaning/disinfecting and drying of the brush will ensure that it's clean and ready for a new piece of pantyhose.  Quick, easy, and very effective!

Another tip I'll leave you with as you contemplate your next brush cleaning:  Take the time to inspect your brush. Look for bristles with frayed ends which can damage your hair. Check for missing "balls" on your paddle brushes, as metal bristles with no protectors on the ends can really tear up extension bonds quickly. Make sure your cushioned head is intact holds your bristles tightly. Missing clumps of bristles (or any of the above) is a good indicator it's time to get a new brush.

REFERENCES / RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
homesessive.com - Four Household Uses For Pantyhose
huffingtonpost.com - Spring Cleaning: How To Clean Your Hairbrush
thebeautydepartment.com - How To Properly Clean Your Hairbrush

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.

Hair Extensions Are Extremely Popular For Women All Over The Country - And Now Horses!

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

Quality hair extensions have become immensely popular for women of all race, age and hair color, and it's a trend that seems remain hot even through the sluggish economy we've been stuck in. It has become mainstream all across the country in the past several years as more women discover the ease of wear, flexibility and versatility they give.



Photo Credit: Illinois Station KFVS 12


Surprisingly, we're not the only ones who are seeing a great use for hair extensions. News comes from the show barns of America who have turned to equine hair extensions to spruce up high priced show horses in an attempt to give them the tails of their dreams (and hopefully a few blue ribbons)! Both horse tails and horse manes have been cut in the rash of thefts.

A recent story out of the Southern Illinois Equestrian Center reports on a rash of events that will surprise most people. Apparently, a thief or thieves have been entering the facility's paddocks and have clipped the tail hair off all but two of the horses! Some horse hair has been found to be advertised for sale on-line,  reportedly being sold on the black market to show horse owners hoping to create longer, thicker tails. It is also thought to be sold on the black market for use to create horse hair jewelry.

I know what you're all thinking....could they be using horse hair in extensions meant for humans? We have no evidence that the horse hair is being used for sale as human hair extensions. I've been around horses since I was young, and I doubt that it would pass anyone's test, as horse hair is extremely thick and coarse. The best brands of human hair extensions, such as Great Lengths and Hair Dreams, use only top quality Remy hair, and you should be able to feel the quality. It is superior in texture, feel, wear, longevity, and manageability over synthetic hair extensions or cheap hair extensions that often use poor quality hair or damaged hair, and don't pay attention to the direction of the cuticle or prior hair processes such as color, perms, straighteners, etc.

Whatever the reason that horse hair has become such a hot commodity, it's becoming an alarming trend which started out West and is making it's way Eastward. It has been traced from Wyoming, Colorado, Ohio, Missouri and now Illinois, and some barns are being devastated by it, with horse owners upset. In Natrona County Wyoming alone, the thieves have robbed over 63 horses of their hair!

Human hair extensions have been in use a lot longer than horse hair extensions, but the story does demonstrate how the popularity of human hair extensions has caught the interest of others!

REFERENCES:
K2Radio.com - Suspect Vehicles Reported In The Vicinity Of Reported Horse Tail Thefts
TheHorseChannel.com - Horses' Tails Stolen in Separate Incidents in September and October
WFVS-12 - Thieves cut tails, steal horse 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.