Extensions of Yourself Receives Award As Top Specialty Salon

by Andrea Algar

Extensions of Yourself has once again been awarded 2015 Best Business of San Antonio for Hair Extension Salons.

Melissa White, owner of the Stone Oak salon which specializes exclusively in quality hair extensions, has received the award yearly since 2011.

The award is given to companies that demonstrate best practices and who provide value to consumers.

Extensions of Yourself provides quality hair extensions from Great Lengths, Hair Dreams and Gold Fever Hair Extensions which are customized to each person's individual needs.

Melissa White has been providing hair extension services in Stone Oak since 2008. Her services include specialization in women with thinning hair due to heredity, childbirth, hormones, medical conditions or the medications they use, and achieves results that helps restore self confidence to her clients. In fact, San Antonio women of all ages can enjoy the many benefits of quality hair extensions.

Valentine's Day Hair Styling Tips from Extensions of Yourself - San Antonio's Hair Extension Salon

by Melissa White

I can't think of a better holiday to wish all of my clients the very best for Valentine's Day! I hope your day is special, and that your hair extensions have helped allow you to feel beautiful.

Even though holidays like this can be joyful, they can also be filled with stress. Every woman wants to look their absolute best on a day that was designed to draw attention to her. It's a day you really don't want to be caught having a bad hair day.

So, I've pulled together some tips that might inspire you. If you're looking for a special occasion hairstyle for a different way to wear your hair for a dinner out, or just a nice quiet evening at home with your Valentine, visit some past posts:

1) Building Volume in Your Hair

2) Fashionable and HOT Braids

3) New Hair Accessory Trend

4) Beautiful Looks for Special Occasions

Have fun with your hair extensions and don't be afraid to get creative! This is your day.

It's Winter but my Hair Looks "Fried" - What's Wrong?

by Andrea L. Algar

Even though it is winter outside, how is it we end up with uncontrollable, dried out hair? We typically think of heat damage only when it's hot outside and our skin feels the heat. Heat is almost essential to our hair styling routines these days. But just how do we protect our hair from the heat and prevent a "hair-frying" experience?

First, look at the devices we use on our hair: blow dryers, curling irons, flat irons, steam rollers and more. I've even heard of women using clothing irons to straighten stubbornly curly hair! When you consider that these styling tools are often used on a daily basis, and they're often not used correctly, there's little wonder why many women end up with damaged hair.

To put it simply, heat sucks the moisture right out of your hair and leaves it more vulnerable to heat damage.Signs of heat damage to your hair are:

• frizzed or frizzled hair
• dry hair
• brittle hair that breaks easily
• dull hair
• 
  

Now consider that all of these styling tools generate heat. Sometimes incredibly high heat. Curling irons and flat irons are often set at 400 degrees or more. You wouldn't ever imagine sticking your head into an oven set at 400 degrees, and even at temperatures just above 100 degrees your skin starts to feel dehydrated, shriveled and burned. So why do we do this to our hair?

Fifty years ago, the majority of women went to the "hair parlor" to have their hair washed, dried, color treated, permed and styled by professionals. Few did these things themselves. Even though modern products that are designed to protect had not yet been in use, because so many of the hair care procedures were done by professionals, women didn't seem to get the type of damage so common today. It was also prior to the age of modern hair care equipment that uses heat. In those days most of the heat was generated from the hooded dyers or heat generated from the harsh chemicals they used on the hair.

What many people don't realize is that you don't need to be using these styling tools every day to get damaged hair. It only takes one occurrence to permanently damage your hair. The only real remedy is to grow it back out.

But, just as technology has created a new wave of tools that can cause damage, it has created a variety of different products designed specifically to protect your hair. One of the great new products to emerge are heat protectants.

What are heat protectants?

Think of heat protectant products as a sunscreen for your hair. But, instead of protecting your hair from the sun, the primary purpose is to protect your hair from the devastating effects of heat. Applied as a light coating over the entire hair shaft, heat protectants work by sealing off the cuticle and forming a barrier against the heat. Because hair is a protein that needs nourishment, it's susceptible to heat and it is important to use the right protecting products.

Melissa White, owner of San Antonio hair extension salon Extensions of Yourself, explains, "It's scary how few people know about the products that can help reduce damage to their hair. For women who have invested in 100% human hair extensions, you'd think the desire to maintain and protect them would be at the top of their list of things to do. But, sometimes its hard for clients to see the benefit of investing a little bit extra in quality products that will help their hair extensions last longer and look their best."

There are a number of heat protectants available through quality salons. And, they're designed for different hair types and different amounts of hold, etc. Some combine heat protectants with styling products for hold or texture, or even for color treated hair. Some are blended to work best with curling irons, while others are specifically designed for blow dryers because styling tools differ in their optimum temperatures. If you use both, opt for a product that offers the maximum protection and select one that is designed for irons.

I recommend seeking the advise of your own personal hair stylist. He/she knows your hair type, how you style your hair, as well as the level of damage you have. They are best suited to select a product that will help protect your hair from the ravaging effects of man-made heat!

RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Extensions of Yourself - Cold Weather and Extremes in Temperature Can Affect Hair Health

Harry Potter Star Dons "Man-xtensions" As Hair Extensions For Men Hits Hollywood

by Melissa L. White
Certified Hair Extension Artist

Photo credit: eonline.com

Yes, male stars are wearing extensions! Danielle Radcliffe proudly showed off his mane of thick locks recently in a screening for his new film "Kill Your Darlings". The 24 year old star of Harry Potter fame has certainly changed up his looks when getting into his new character for a film based on the old Frankenstein stories.

This is no surprise to the Londoners who attended the event. As I've previously written, the U.K. trend of male hair extensions is rising so fast that hair extension manufacturers are scrambling to get hold of a promising new source of business.

And, as I wrote last week, the trend does seem to be making its way into America, as evident in New York City, and in Hollywood. This will be something we'll be seeing more of no doubt. The new trend of male hair extensions can actually look as natural on men as they do on women, although the styles are not as long on men.

What do you think of Radcliffe's new hair extensions?


REFERENCE:
eonline.com - Daniel Radcliffe Reveals New Hair Extensions For Upcoming Frankenstein Role
EOY - Hair Extensions For Men In San Antonio?
EOY -

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 12 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 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.

Some Say Creating Voluminous Hair Is Effortless, But IS it?

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

On Monday, popular blog StyleList put out a post entitled, "Getting glam voluminous hair like Blake Lively is effortless."  Since creating and maintaining volume has always been one of the more difficult things for my clients, I couldn't resist saying something about this.

Photo credit: Pinterest.com

For those of us with thin hair, thinning hair, or sometimes just heavy long hair, creating volume can sometimes seem impossible. Yes, there are root boosters, root lifters, volumizers and a host of products with dozens of names, all claiming to help us do the impossible. So just what is effortless about this jumble of choices and uncertainty?

Some people are blessed with thick, voluminous hair that doesn't require a lot of work to create full-bodied hairstyles that look fabulous (grrrr!). Others grow tired of spending hours creating a great look that will inevitably fall flat within hours. Others turn to longer lasting solutions to thin hair by investing in hair extensions, which is an excellent solution for many at my San Antonio salon. Even so, many still want to be able to create volume at their roots. Whether you have hair extensions or not, a good product is usually necessary in order to achieve lift and body at the roots.

As a licensed hair stylist, my experience has shown that no single product will work 100% for everyone. Everyone's hair is unique, and needs product that will interact with their own hair. While one particular root booster will work for one, it will fall flat for others who may need something with a bit more substance and holding power. And, let's face it, products that claim to perform the same task often behave quite different. They may apply differently, dry differently, or even change after styling or applying hair spray. Some are messy, sticky, smelly, or are just plain difficult to apply yourself.

It can also become quite expensive to continually try different brands and all of their different products. So, how do you weed through the hundreds, if not thousands of products?

First, find out what is required for the particular hair style that you are trying to create or that you prefer to wear. One hair style may require stiff control, while another may need to remain soft and brushable. When you visit your stylist and they suggest a new style, ask in advance what will be required to maintain the style once you get home and are doing it on your own. A good stylist will always make sure you are able to re-create the look.

Sometimes, reading up on different products and what they are used for can only confuse you and leave you with a cabinet full of unused or unliked product. Learning the difference between gels, lotions, serums, sprays, conditioners, leave-in conditioners, root boosters, volumizers, hair sprays, and other products can be overwhelming. You're better off asking your stylist for his/her recommendations.

If you've heard of a particular product that seems worth trying, ask what their experience is with the product. If it is a product that is not carried by their salon, do they have clients who have tried it? Do they have anything similar? Use the experience that your hair stylist has. Ask for help in selecting products that would be appropriate for you, and that will help you with whatever particular problem you are having with styling your hair. Your hair stylist probably sees hundreds of clients, and many different types of hair. He/she is an excellent source of information and has probably had access to dozens of different brands and types of products.

Effortless, probably not. But possible, yes. Rest assured there are products out there for just about everyone. Knowing what type of hairstyle you're trying to create will help guide you to the best product to achieve it. Getting the help of your stylist will help guide you through the maze of products that all claim they'll give you fabulous hair.

What's your story? Effortless or a struggle?

REFERENCE:
StyleList.com - Getting glam voluminous hair like Blake Lively is effortless

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.

Would You Rent Clip-On Hair Extensions?

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

One of my trade magazines had an article that caught my eye about a salon which just announced a new service of renting out clip-in hair extensions. It made me think back to my childhood and hearing from my mom how I shouldn't share a hairbrush with friends because it isn't sanitary. Sure, catching lice or some other unwanted "ichy thing" from a fellow schoolmate WAS something to avoid.

I think that, for most women, lessons learned early on do carry on to adulthood. Most women I know wouldn't share a hairbrush, much less human hair extensions that have been worn by someone else. Doesn't really matter whether they've been washed in-between, it just seems "gross".

Women who purchase real human hair extensions have already accepted a level of comfort with wearing hair that was cut from someone else. The name manufacturers of human hair extensions all follow strict procedures to properly clean and sanitize the hair before it is sold in bundles as human hair extensions.

But would a persons "comfort" extend to rented hair extensions that have been affixed and removed from the scalp of many other women?

One Beverly Hills salon, Nelson J, is boldly exploring this new concept. The new program allows salon clients to check out clip-in hair pieces for $75 a week. (Still a hefty price for high maintenance clip-in hair extensions in my opinion.)

In-Style did an on-line poll that looked at this question. As of noon on Sunday, results clearly showed the majority of people would not.

What do you think? Let me know.

REFERENCE:
InStyle.com - Rented Hair Extensions Poll

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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)

What Is Synthetic Hair And Is It Good For Hair Extensions?

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

 

This is one of the top questions I hear from women who are not very experienced with hair extensions, or perhaps are considering them for the first time. Usually it comes in the form of, "Why can't I just go down to my local beauty store and buy a pack of hair extensions?" or, "What's wrong with the hair extensions I can get from Sally's for twenty bucks?"

 



Mannequin with
Synthetic Hairpiece

 Synthetic hair is made of a wide array of different synthetic fibers. Synthetic hair does not last as long as human hair because it quickly gets damaged by friction and heat. Heating appliances such as curling irons and straightening combs, crimpers or drying brushes generally should never be used on most types of synthetic hair.

The quality of hair varies greatly. Depending on quality, it may never look like human hair, as it can be stiff and move differently than human hair. (Think department store mannequins!)

Synthetic hair is much less expensive than human hair, but it does need to be replaced more frequently, making the overall cost sometimes very expensive. Synthetic hair is most commonly sold in wigs, falls, weaves, clip in hair extensions, and sometimes for lesser quality bonded hair extensions.

The pros and cons of synthetic hair versus 100% natural human hair is sometimes hotly contested. However, most women who are experienced with wearing hair extensions do prefer human hair and feel it is well worth the additional cost. Here's some specifics:

Synthetic vs Human Hair	100% Natural Human Hair Extensions	Synthetic Hair Hair Extensions
How long can the hair in extensions last?	Quality human hair extensions can last up to six months or more. If well cared for, high quality extensions can sometimes last even longer with proper maintenance, visits to your stylist and “move-ups” as your natural hair grows out.	Usually an average of 1 month for base quality synthetic hair. High quality synthetics, special shampoos and avoiding heat can sometimes extend them to 3 months before they begin to look “ratty”.
Can I use curling iron or hot rollers?	Yes. 100% Human Hair Extensions are heat-friendly and can be styled using heating tools, just like your own hair!	No. Most Synthetic hair will melt when exposed to any type of styling heat. There are some that advertise they can withstand heat, but usually only low, minimal heat at best.
How easy are they to maintain?	Yes. 100% Human Hair Extensions require very simple daily care. Although they’re fun to style, it is not necessary to be a slave to them. Proper care eliminates most all problems.	Yes and No. Synthetic hair is often used for clip-in extensions, which most women tire of quickly due to the daily time they require. They also require special shampoo and tend to accumulate buildup.
Are they easy to style?	Yes. Human Hair Extensions are natural hair, so anything you do to your own hair can be done to them. You can easily wear a wide variety of styles and have great fun doing it!	Synthetic hair extensions are pre-styled which can really limit your styling options. Since heat cannot be used, curling is limited and, braiding can leave permanent kinks in the hair.
Can I color the hair?	Yes. Human Hair Extensions can be color treated, but as with any natural hair, coloring can damage the hair. Remember, a good stylist will pick a shade that blends or compliments your hair, so coloring is usually not necessary unless you’re looking to change your entire look.	Synthetic Extensions CANNOT be colored or treated in any way, as it WILL damage the hair.
Do the extensions look and feel natural?	Yes. 100% Human Hair Extensions look the most natural. A good stylist will know how to blend them with your own hair so that they look like your own natural hair.	No. Synthetic Extensions, and many of the methods used to attach them, tend to create bulk. Your own hair can look like a “shelf” because they do not blend well with your own hair.
How much do they cost?	Prices vary around the country. Although human hair extensions are more expensive up-front, they last longer and require less work.	Synthetic hair extensions are relatively inexpensive but do not hold up long. Over time, they can become more costly because you must replace them more frequently.
I've never worn any type of hairpiece. Which is better?	Hair extensions work extremely well for everyday wear as well as special occasions. They are extremely versatile because of their natural look and styling options.	Synthetic hair extensions are a good option if you’re only wearing them for special occasions or very occasional use. The require time to put in and remove with every use.
Will anyone else notice the difference?	There is a reason you see celebrities wearing human hair extensions! Many people wouldn’t know they had them unless they were told.	Most people can pick out hair extensions when they’re synthetic…they tend to look “fake”.

So, now that we've looked at the pros and cons of synthetic hair for use in hair extensions I know you're curious to know what exactly IS synthetic hair made of?

Here are the basic materials in synthetic hair:

• Polyester     
• Toyokalon         
• Kanekalon         
• Monofilament 
• Silk
• Silicone    

I'd encourage anyone considering hair extensions to consult with an expert. See a hair extension stylist who has at least several years of experience in a variety of different extension types so that you're not getting steered into the single brand that their salon happens to carry. Your stylist should be able to make recommendations based on your hair type, length of hair, hair color, and type of bond which will give you the best possible look.

Your stylist should also take into account your wishes. What type of lifestyle do you have? How much time are you wanting to put into maintaining your hair extensions? What length hair do you want? How thick? Do you have coloring needs? What style hair do you wear most frequently and what styles are you wanting to wear because you are getting hair extensions? And much more.

A lot goes into a good hair extension consultation to ensure that you'll be happy with your investment of time and money. A professional stylist wants you to look your best. A dedicated and conscientious stylist also wants you to love your 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.

Employee Forced Out Over Lack Of Hair

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

I think everyone would agree that hair is something extremely important to most women. For years it has been seen as a fashion statement, a reflection of one's personality, and even of one's femininity and sexuality. Styles come and go, but the importance placed upon a well-coiffed "do" is unquestionably in the top 3 of fashion and style: hair, clothes, shoes.



Sandra Lupo



Today, a story surfaced about Sandra Lupo, a former Hooters employee who claims that she was forced out of her job after she had shaved her head in July 2012 in order to have a lump on her brain surgically removed.

She claims that she attempted to comply with management and wear a wig following her return to work, but found that it irritated her wound. She allegedly quit after management continually cut her hours, causing her to quit. She has filed suit against Hooters.

REFERENCE VIDEO:

Huffington Post - Sandra Lupo Story - VIDEO

Unfortunately, Sandra Lupo found out what many women who have faced hair loss have already learned the hard way. Wearing wigs is often not comfortable and there are not many remedies when you've shaved your head. It takes time to grow out hair to the point where you have options.

Specializing in hair extensions, I see many women who have balding or thinning hair, hair loss from medical conditions, treatments or surgeries and/or difficult to grow hair. I often apply hair extensions on unusually short hair, and have developed techniques over the last decade which work extremely well. But, you still do need some hair growth. It is unfortunate that this employee was not given the opportunity to recover from her health scare without feeling forced out of her job.

I don't know what will come out of this lawsuit, but it does emphasize just how important hair can be to one's emotional well being and one's career. What do you think? Have a story you'd like to share?

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.

Michelle Williams Displays Bold New Pixie Hairstyle - What Do You Think?

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

Another celebrity is in the news today with her new haircut causing a stir over whether her new variation on the pixie cut that she's known for is cutting edge or in need of a cut! Michelle Williams is the talk of tinsel-town watchers who are eager to grade celebs on their fashion statements.  Here's a pic of her new look at the Target launch party last night:




Michelle Williams
Photo Credit: Huffington Post


For those of you who follow Michelle Williams, you'll probably know that she had recently made the statement that she was looking forward to growing out her short pixie style cut. It would seem that making the bold move of this asymmetrical cut would commit her to the short hair she's become known for.

Perhaps she'll take a look at hair extensions to remedy the difficult grow-out period next time she's in the mood to consider longer hair! This cut certainly makes a grow-out much more difficult.

What do you think of Michelle Williams' new look....love it or not?  Comment below!

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.

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.

Emma Watson Sports Hair Extensions For GQ Cover Photo

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

Spring 2013 fashion photos are full of celebrities wearing hair extensions. Just released is a brand new look for Emma Watson as she readied for a cover photo shoot for GQ magazine.

Emma Watson - Photo Credit: GQ

The extremely popular 22 year old Harry Potter actress has transformed herself with an entirely new look that will no-doubt have fashion-followers talking for weeks to come. While many of the Hollywood A Listers have recently updated their hair extensions with pastel colors, ombre' highlights or bright wild colors, others remain conservative with their looks, preferring to simply add fullness and length to change up their look.

As celebrities have discovered, hair extensions are a quick and effective way to change your look instantly. Applied correctly, they can also be a savior for women with balding or thinning hair, hair that is too short from medical treatments or which simply won't grow, or those who have fine hair that won't support some of today's hot hair styles.

Here in San Antonio, Texas, hair extensions are becoming more popular than ever as women who have tried clip-in extensions and hair pieces have grown tired of the time-consuming attachment process and the stress they place on the hair. The benefits of hair extensions are many, and an experienced stylist can tailor the extensions to suit your specific needs and wishes.

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.