Modern Family Star Shocks Many By Revealing She Wore Hair Extensions!

by Melissa L. White

Sara Hyland, who plays Haley on Modern Family, surprised many by revealing that she has actually been wearing hair extensions! Followers of the star did not suspect until she had her hair extensions removed and posted Instagram pics sporting a trendy lob.

The fact that so many did not even realize that she wore hair extensions just reinforces the fact that, if applied well, hair extensions can be undetectable to others.

We've all seen examples of hair extensions that have been poorly installed, or where the quality of hair is bad. Different types of installation methods have been tried over the years in an effort to simplify the process, but the fact is that professional hair extensions by leaders in the field such as Great Lengths and HairDreams just can't be beat for quality, longevity, and super looks.

However, the star is reported to admit that she does not plan to wear short hair for long, captioning in the photo below, "Last week I got my extensions out!! It's lob time!...For a week."

Once you've had quality hair extensions installed, it's difficult to imagine not having them. Apparently, Sarah Hyland feels the same, and she certainly is not alone.

Do Your Research Before Getting Hair Extensions - Beware of Misleading Information

by Melissa L. White

There is a wealth of information on the Internet concerning hair extensions, but not all of it is true. Sometimes the information is exaggerated, other times it is more than just a little misleading - it can be completely false.

Note the bald patches
after removing extensions

This may come as a shock to some, but there are people out there who use inferior hair products and try to pass them off as quality! Many who do this offer hair extensions at "too good to be true" prices, or make bold statements that those who charge more are just ripping off consumers. I've even heard outrageous claims that Great Lengths hair extension bonds are not keratin and are glue! It's hard to believe that people can still fall for bold claims like this when for years we've been warned that if something looks too good to be true, it probably is.

But, it happens time and time again. You read a story about someone who finds a great price on hair extensions, then gets them installed, only to find out that it was a huge mistake. Not because they had hair extensions, but because they had extensions that were not top quality, using methods that can be problematic, and more importantly, installed by uncertified, unqualified or inexperienced stylists.

Just this week an interesting story of a British actress named Jodie made the news. Her case was newsworthy because the hair extensions she had put in caused extreme damage to her hair. The photo above shows the actress after she had to remove the hair extensions herself.

The stylist who installed her long blond hair extensions had used wax bonds (not a recommended method) and hadn't explained that you couldn't use any type of heat on them. This caused a big problem when Jodie attempted to blowdry and straighten her new hair. She explains, "It was great waking up feeling like Cinderella with long, blond hair. But when I went to straighten my hair, the wax bonds started to melt. My hair started matting and sticking together."

Jodie was left with short, thinned hair and bald patches

There is a reason that high quality hair extensions are more expensive than the hair extensions that you can purchase yourself at a beauty supply store. Quality hair extensions are sold only to licensed hair stylists who have been trained by their company. They are not available at beauty supply stores anywhere. Companies such as Great Lengths and Hairdreams sell the world's highest quality hair extensions. They are more expensive than other brands, but they use the highest quality of hair, and the bonds used are designed to be gentle on your hair (unlike glue, wax, tape, weaves or even clip-ins).

I could get technical with all of the specific differences that determines the "quality" of hair, but we'll cover that in another article. The point that I'd like for everyone considering hair extensions to get is that this is an investment in you. Don't take short-cuts or do it solely based on price or you may end up with a look that is far worse than the one you are unsatisfied with now.

You need tips in finding the best hair extensions, and don't want to fall for misleading claims. So what do you look for? Beware of claims like these:

• Name-brand such as Great Lengths, Hairdreams or So-Cap are not the best
• Name-brands use bonds that are not Keratin-based (a protein found in hair)
• Glue is the best method
• Prices are good because they get hair from a local beauty supply store
• They send you to purchase your own hair
• You can get a head full of quality hair extensions for under $500
• Claim training and/or certification without naming the companies certified by
• Has your hair in stock already (hair should be custom ordered for each person)
• Clip-in extensions are the only "safe" method
• Synthetic hair can look just as good as 100% human hair
• There is no maintenance needed for their hair extensions
• Tape is a good method of applying hair extensions
• You can wear your extensions for a year or more
• Micro-rings can't damage your hair
• You need to change your extensions every 1-3 months

These are just some of the outrageous claims I've seen from stylists who venture into the world of hair extensions without having done their homework! Stylists who spend a lot of money for training from the top companies don't hesitate to mention those companies by name. If you have received certification from Hairdreams or Great Lengths, you flaunt it because they are the two best in the world. Your equipment is the latest technology and your training is unequaled.

Yes, quality hair extensions do cost more than those you purchase from a beauty supply store. And, the professionals installing them usually charge more than a stylist who doesn't use quality extensions. You need to ask yourself whether you feel comfortable taking the risk with hair and stylists who are questionable.

Do you feel saving a few dollars is worth the possibility of ending up with an experience like Jodie? Read all the details on Jodie's bad hair extensions and let me know what you think!

RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
The Daily Mall - Actress left with matted hair after "dodgy" hair extensions
Extensions of Yourself - Facts About Hair Extensions
Extensions of Yourself - The Hair
Extensions of Yourself - What's 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 hair extensions. Melissa has over 14 years of extensive training and experience 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.

British Men Are Wearing Hair Extensions In Record Numbers - Will The Trend Come Across The Pond?

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

Will this new trend make it "across the pond"? Time will tell, but in the meantime, it's a trend that certainly appears to be growing in the U.K. In fact, Great Lengths, which is a British hair extension company, has introduced a new line of hair extensions just for men!

Photo credit: justjared.com

Yes, hair extension companies are getting ready to take advantage of male interest in hair extensions. Great Lengths publicity releases claim that they expect that men will soon account for 10% of their total sales. While this doesn't sound like huge numbers, it is a large jump that can only continue to grow. The photos that are on their site show a bit of length and probably more important, more volume.

A recent article on mtv.com poked fun at the attempts by men to produce coiffs reminiscent of beehives worn by women in the 1960's, and blames it all on Harry Styles and his recent appearance on Good Morning America.

Dubbing their male hair extensions "Men-hancements", Great Lengths certainly appears to take the new trend seriously, even though the mtv.com article didn't. They've released publicity surrounding the U.K. craze, and have even devoted a page on their website to male hair extensions.

And, there is some evidence that this new trend has indeed made its way to America. A recent article in mainstream media outlet the New York Daily News weighed in on the phenomenon which has hit New York by storm.

As I discussed in a November 2013 article, hair extensions for men is in fact growing, not only in Great Britain, but here in the United States. Like most trends, it is getting it's roots (pun intended)  among celebrities in Hollywood. More and more men are turning to hair extensions to quickly adapt to roles in movies, plays, or appearances. And, it's likely to continue just as it did for female celebrities.

I've no doubt that the trend will continue to grow across the country as more and more men come forward and take the leap into human hair extensions. As hairstyles adapt to the trend, it could take off quickly and even be seen here on the streets of San Antonio! What do you think?

REFERENCES:
EOY -  Hair Extensions For Men In San Antonio?
mtv.com - British Men Harry Styles Extensions
Great Lengths - Men-hancements Madness
NY 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 14 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 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.

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.

Flow Strands from Great Lengths Offer Brilliant Transitioning Color

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

Great Lengths has been one of the leading hair extension suppliers for many years, and for good reason. They have remained successful by staying in step with what their customers want and providing a top quality product. With their recent introduction of "Flow Strands", they prove once again that they're up to the challenge.


Great Lengths
Flow Strands


Great Lengths' Flow Strands are the talk of towns across America because they're in tune with trends that are extremely popular. Brightly colored with shades such as orange, magenta or turquoise flowing from base colors of blonde or brunette, these unique hair extensions offer a pop of color.

With many women who wear hair extensions opting for looks that are different from everyone else, Flow Strands are being offered as limited editions from Great Lengths. It was announced that they will be available only through May 31st, 2013.

Will Flow Strands be popular in San Antonio? That remains to be seen, as San Antonio is a bit more conservative than some of America's larger cities when it comes to hair color. But even those not as brazen enough to try a full head of eye-popping color may conjure up the courage to try a splash of color that is different than what most others get with synthetic clip-in hair extensions dipped like Easter eggs. These are bold colors that transition beautifully.

As a Great Lengths certified technician, I can use Flow Strands to create a single area of color, or a headful of playful color that really makes a statement.

Flow Strands should not be confused with ombre' highlights. Although the two transition hair colors, the use of brilliant, bold color is what makes Flow Strands stand out. The Flow Strands are available for a limited time from certified Great Lengths stylists in 16 inch lengths which can be cut to your desired length.

If you're looking for something different, ask for Flow Strands while they last!

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.

Great Lengths Reports Hair Extensions At All-Time High In Popularity

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

Great Lengths, one of the world's top three suppliers of high quality human hair extensions, is reporting a 70 percent growth in the last five years! That's huge by any standard, and it speaks volumes as to how popular quality hair extensions really have become.

According to a report by the Professional Beauty Association, there has been a  28.5 percent increase in the number of U.S. salons who offer hair extension services. This at a time when the economy has been in the pits is a pretty good indication that this trend is exceeding popularity predictions. While the hair used in hair extensions has not changed, other factors seem to boost their desirability.

So what is contributing to the success of the hair extension phenomenon? First, more and more celebrities are seen wearing hair extensions and are openly talking about them. In the past, movie stars didn't talk much about their beauty secrets, but in today's society everyone gets on the band wagon with sharing just about anything and everything. Sometimes it is in preparation for a launch of their very own product line, other times it is a way of staying in the news.

And, celebrities aren't the only ones talking. Women from just about every walk of life now wear hair extensions and are willing to talk about it with friends, family, co-workers and even acquaintances. It can be such a life-changing event that most women are excited, renewed and feeling so good about themselves that they want to share it with everyone.

What also contributes is the advances that have been made within the hair extension industry itself. The leading manufacturers of hair include Great Lengths, Hairdreams and So-Cap. "Glue" bonds have been replaced with high quality keratin tips that are far less damaging to the hair because keratin is a naturally found in hair itself. Also methods for installation of hair extensions has improved tremendously as more specialists have emerged with superior application techniques.

Outdated methods of glue-tips, sewn in extensions, beaded bands or clips still exist, and are often found in hair extensions of lesser quality. Even the quality of keratin tips can vary tremendously from one hair company to another. Doing research and finding trained stylists who are experienced in hair extensions will generally lead you to those who use more up-to-date methods and provide quality hair from one of the major hair companies such as Great Lengths, Hairdreams, So-Cap and select others.

Training should come from the company itself. In other words, the stylist should be certified by the companies they use, i.e., Great Lengths or Hairdreams (as I am), and not by the salon they work for. All hair extension professionals that are certified have been trained in similar classes. Where stylists differ is in the quality of hair they choose (or that their salon chooses) to use, and the techniques and skill level they have in applying the hair extensions. This is what can make a world of difference in your hair's outcome. Some stylists have a natural "feel" for placement and bonding, while others simply have textbook knowledge. Some see a lot of clients, others may do extensions only once a week, once a month, or perhaps even less.

The bonds used by companies also can vary greatly, and each has specific suggestions for installation, care and removal of hair extensions. As the first salon in San Antonio to specialize exclusively in hair extensions, I quickly realized that too many stylists try a "one size fits all" solution for all of their clients, and some choose short-cuts using cheaper hair or even synthetic hair. I use several of the top companies because my client's needs are all different and I choose what is best for each individual person I see.

The news remains - it looks like hair extensions are here to stay. Not only in San Antonio, but areas around the country are seeing increases in the numbers of women seeking hair extensions as a matter of looking better, feeling better, and many times taking care of medical conditions which would otherwise leave them depressed and hopeless. I'm glad that hair extensions have come out of the woodwork and are no longer seen as taboo.

RELATED ARTICLES:

Extensions of Yourself: The Cost of Hair Extensions

Jan 17, 2012

A top-of-the-line hair extension system like Great Lengths, HairDreams and So-Cap, will cost more because of the premium nature of the hair used in these extensions. This hair is not as readily available as lower end hair, ...

Extensions of Yourself: Use of Hair Extensions in Today's Economy

Jan 12, 2012

HairDreams and So-Cap are a close second to Great Lengths and their 10 year head start in the hair extension market. With the huge response to hair extensions, people are innovating new and creative techniques and that ...

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.

 

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.

Dallas Trip Provides Extensions Of Yourself With The Latest Advances and Techniques in Hair Extensions

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

Training is always an ongoing thing. Although I am certified with the major hair extension suppliers, I always enjoy the continuing education that comes with the certification. Just recently, I had the pleasure of attending an in-depth training in Dallas, where the cold fusion application techniques and cutting design were discussed, practiced and evaluated.


Dallas Skyline



Cold fusion technique involves the use of ultrasonic energy instead of direct heat to bond the hair. While this may not be the method I use on all my clients, it certainly does add to the variety of options that I have when I evaluate each of my client's needs.

As those who have seen me already know, I prefer to tailor each person's hair extensions to their own uniqueness. I evaluate the length of their own hair, the condition of their hair, and the style and length of the hair extensions desired in helping to determine not only the type of hair itself, but the method I will use to install the hair extensions.

Because I've had over ten years of experience with hair extensions, and having at least tried almost every known method of installation and type of hair available, it helps me select the type most appropriate for each individual I see. My salon, Extensions of Yourself, specializes in custom hair extensions and the application, color and cut necessary to provide the best in quality hair extensions. Attenting continuing education seminars, workshops and conferences keeps my skills sharp and helps motivate me to bring the best available to those who seek out my services.

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.

How Quality Hair Extensions Are Made

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist
Certified Hair Extension Artist

Ever wonder just how quality hair extensions are made?  Why are quality hair extensions so much better than (and more expensive than) the cheap synthetic or poor quality human hair extensions that you can purchase in your local beauty supply store without license?

Take a look behind the scenes with a tour of a Great Lengths facility in Europe:



Click here for Mobile Version of video
As you can see, there are a lot of steps to ensure that the quality of the hair is beyond that of most other hair extensions available. It's no wonder that Great Lengths is one of the premiere hair extension companies, and one of the top choices with Hollywood. Top celebrities are known to use Great Lengths and Hair Dreams  hair extensions. There is truth in the old saying "you get what you pay for," and using synthetic locks or cheap human hair extensions are easily detected and just don't look good. In comparison, the hair extensions used by top celebrities look natural and gorgeous!

As a specialist salon, I use only the best quality Remy hair from the top hair extension companies including Great Lengths and Hair Dreams. I'm available to help you decide which extensions can best help you achieve the hair of your dreams!

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.

The Cost of Hair Extensions

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist

Hair Extension prices depend on a number of factors. The type and quality of hair extension, the amount of hair used, the length of hair or the look desired. A top-of-the-line hair extension system like Great Lengths, HairDreams and So-Cap, will cost more because of the premium nature of the hair used in these extensions. This hair is not as readily available as lower end hair, hence the much higher costs for the hair extensions. General rule of thumb, to add body to hair figure you need $500 and up, to add length, figure $1000 and up.

The average person spends over $1000. Be careful just judging on price. Hair Extensions are an investment in yourself. If it costs $200 for a full head of hair extensions, stay away. They will probably destroy your hair. Use only 100% Natural Remy Human Hair Extensions. Avoid synthetic extensions, and make sure the person is a licensed hair dresser who has had experience applying them.

The best thing to do is schedule a consultation with an extension specialist in your area, or a location you are willing to travel to. I personally enjoy meeting my clients in consultations, as they enable me to give an exact price based upon the look you want, the length you want, your lifestyle, and the amount of hair needed to accomplish your desires. These are all important. I spend time answer any and all questions you may have, and preparing you for what to expect when you get your new hair. Make sure the person you see is a licensed hair stylist who has had experience applying hair extensions, and who is willing to give you a realistic idea of what it is like to wear them. While my consultations and hair analysis visits are always free, some stylists choose to charge a fee.   Here's more information on what it's like to wear hair extensions, where the hair comes from, and the different types of hair extensions available.

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.

Use of Hair Extensions in Today's Economy

by Melissa White

Licensed Hair Stylist

Hair extensions have exploded in popularity over the last several years, and are not just for celebrities anymore. People from all over the country are getting hair extensions, trying to improve their hair fullness and length. At the start of the hair extension craze, everyone wanted to look like their favorite celebrity. Mariah, Beyonce, Tyra, Oprah, Shakira, and a host of others, never left the house without their extensions in. Now it is everyday people, making room for the hair’s budget, even in tough economic times.

As the demand for hair extensions grows, more and more companies are offering different type of hair extensions. At the start of the hair extension boom, silicone was the bonding agent of choice to connect or “fuse” the hair extension to your own hair. Fusion attaches small amounts of hair, strategically placed, throughout your own hair to create length, fullness, or both. Shortly after the boom began, Great Lengths developed a pre-bonded hair extension, that eliminated the need for glues, and the new hair extension revolution took place.

The current bonding agent of choice is usually a keratin polymer. Keratin is a natural component of real human hair. This polymer can be fused in many ways, such as heat, ultrasonic waves, air pressure, or laser. There may be pros and cons for each method depending upon your hair type and the type of hair extension used. An experienced extension artist can advise you.

Today, there are dozens of companies looking for a share. HairDreams and So-Cap are a close second to Great Lengths and their 10 year head start in the hair extension market. With the huge response to hair extensions, people are innovating new and creative techniques and that is good for everyone.

I’m often asked by other businesses whether the downward changes in the economy do anything to change demand. At my San Antonio hair extension salon I've noticed that with today’s emphasis on trends, it has become apparent that people will always find room in their budget to look good. A woman might buy one less dress or fewer pair of shoes instead of giving up their hair extensions.

One thing is for sure, the hair business is changing. The days of getting a haircut or color at the salon are changing. More and more exotic services are showing up and taking hold, and growth for the beauty industry as a whole looks like it will continue. Celebrities are not the only ones trying to look good, and with the Internet, people are made aware of new trends faster than ever before.

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.