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.

Hair Extensions Generate Buzz With Colorful Controversy

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist

As you know, I follow anything that's related to hair extensions, whether it be the most recent techniques and training, new products, accessories that make wearing them more fun, or even to what celebrities are doing with hair extensions using color, styles and cuts. Celebrities have helped to shape trends with hair extensions including the use of feathers, color blocks, colored tips, braided extensions and more.

Lauren Conrad's "Rainbow Hair"
is created with Hair Extensions

Britney Spears recently created quite a controversy when she showed up for the huge iHeartRadio event in Las Vegas sporting brightly colored hair extensions. Some criticized her for wearing them, stating she was copying other artists, when in reality she's worn brightly colored hair extensions before. In her 2011 video she wore several colors blended throughout her hair.  Lady Gaga, Katy Perry and Gwen Stefani are just a few of the many celebrities who have all worn brightly colored hair extensions. Lauren Conrad (shown above) created a look that many have rushed to duplicate.

No, vividly colored "fantasy" hair extensions aren't new, but they don't appear to be going away either! They're still appearing on celebrities and they are still very popular among younger women who want a bold or unique presence. They are available in a variety of vivid colors and can be worn as accent pieces, colored tips or as color throughout the whole head.

REFERENCES & RESOURCES:
The Hollywood Reporter - Britney Spears' Technicolor Hair Extensions Make a Comeback (video)

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.

Fall's New Leather Fashions Glam Up Long Locks

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist
We're seeing a big trend this Fall, with the use of leather leading the way. Leather jackets, pants, skirts and boots are everywhere, and it's not just black.  As a matter of fact, Kim Kardashian made news again this week with her fashion mis-step with leather (mixing a bulky yellow jacket with short black shirt that wasn't very flattering on her).

Poor wardrobe coordination aside, this is a great opportunity for women with long hair, especially those with quality hair extensions, to flaunt their stuff. Leather fashions throughout the years, have always seemed to look better when the woman wears her hair long, loose and full. Just notice the leather-clad women in the videos below.


Video Credits: Vanessa Lachey on Fall Leather Trends

So, consider bringing out your daring side and go for long, full hair with your leather fashions. Here's some looks to consider:


Fall Leather Trends

What's really different with the Fall 2013 Leather Trend is that it appears it'll be here to stay for awhile. Sneak peaks at the Spring lines show that they continue to have strong offerings in leather even as the warmer weather makes it's way back!

It certainly looks like a touch of leather here and there can serve to accessorize your hair extensions quite beautifully! Have some fun with the new trends.

REFERENCES / RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Elle - Celebrities in Leather
MillionLooks.com - Black Leather - Hottest Fall 2012 Trend
NBCNewYork.com - Fall Trend: Leather, Leather, Everywhere
Neiman Marcus - The Leather Leg
SecretsofaGoodGirl.com - Fall Trend: Lots of Leather!
StyleBistro.com - Leather Gloves - The Top Trend from New York Fashion Week Fall 2012
USMagazine.com - Kim Kardashian Puts Herself on Worst-Dressed List for Bright Yellow Top

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 Young Is Too Young For Hair Extensions?

by Melissa L. White

Licensed Hair Stylist

Like all hot trends, it seems like all different age groups want to jump into the fray once the trend becomes popular. Hair extensions is one that, primarily because of price, hasn't been drawn into the controversy much. But, what would you do if your 15 year old asked for hair extensions? Your 12 year old? Your 10 year old! It does happen.

Seems like every generation complains that the youth of today are growing up much too fast for their own good, and even at my age I can see it. The girls going through junior high and high school are growing up quite different than just 10-20 years ago. I thought that we were pretty fashion conscious, but it pales to what today's teens are demanding. Hair extensions are one of those "luxuries", along with cosmetic surgery and fancy cars, that we didn't expect in generations before.

So, what IS an age where hair extensions would be appropriate? Unfortunately, I don't think there is a set answer to the question. In my experience, some 14 year olds are more mature and grounded than some 20 year olds, and vice-versa. I think it is a matter of needing to assess, along with the parent, whether the teen is a good candidate.

There are many considerations that would go into this decision. How mature is she, how responsible? Are there any behavioral issues? Does she regularly demonstrate the ability to take care of her clothes, her room, as well as other people's things? How much time does she have in her schedule? How does she manage her time?  Can she articulate why she wants hair extensions? Is there a special reason for wanting the hair extensions? Are there other personal considerations? This isn't Hollywood, and getting hair extensions simply because "everyone is getting them," just doesn't cut it with me.

Sure, hair extensions can sound like a whole lot of "fun" to a teenager, but let's look at why these things might be important. For one thing, hair extensions do require more attention then usual. Along with changes in the way one washes their hair, styling is different as well. It can be more time consuming, especially in the beginning when you are getting used to the added fullness, weight of the hair, added drying time, changes in styling, use of products, etc. You must routinely brush through your hair as instructed in order to prevent the hair from wrapping around itself and causing mats. It's best to return to your salon for upkeep visits in order to remove hair that is naturally shed from your head but is bound by the extensions. These are some important considerations, and for most young girls, they're probably not ready for the challenges that this may present in their relatively carefree lives!

But, there are also a variety of choices that might make them work well for a teenager. Sometimes there are compelling reasons why hair extensions might actually be a very benefiical thing for a young girl who perhaps is rebounding from an illness which has left her with short, sparse or thinned hair which makes her feel awkward and an outcast with her peers. Teens can be very sensitive to how they're treated by their peers.

I know first hand what it's like. I've tried just about every type of hair extension, wig, clip-on, weave, thread, and fall that's been done, even including hair used on ethnic black women because I made the decision long ago that this was going to be my specialty. I know there is nothing like first hand experience to help guide others to the best solution for their needs and wishes. And this is why, for now, I like to assess a teen's readiness by meeting with both her and her parent so I can give my recommendation. I will not put hair extensions on a teenager without meeting with at least one of her parents, as I feel this is a very important part of assessing whether she's ready for this investment.

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.

San Antonio Hair Extension Salon Supports Breast Cancer Awareness In A Very Pink Way

Melissa White, owner of Extensions of Yourself, a San Antonio hair salon that specializes in hair extensions has shown support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in her own unique way.

Melissa White
Extensions of Yourself

Sporting flowing pink hair extensions to show her support, Melissa explains, "Anyone who has had a friend, family member or co-worker who has gone through breast cancer understands how devastating this type of cancer can be." Even though treatments are so much more effective than twenty years ago, the anxiety and stress that it causes a woman to go through can be extremely difficult.

"I often provide hair extensions to women who have successfully undergone chemotherapy and are now trying to get their lives back," Melissa elaborates. "Many share the difficulties they've had. I know that it can seem overwhelming without a strong support system and a return to feeling good about yourself. I saw my grandmother struggle unsuccessfully with cancer, and know first-hand how it affects the entire family, too. It's one of the reasons that I enjoy helping women who have fought the battle of breast cancer. It is very important to me."

Indeed, a woman typically has to worry about her work, her home, her husband and her children, and forcibly take a look at the "what-if-things-don't-work-out-quite-right". It's something we all dread, and the stresses it can cause can significantly worsen an already difficult situation.

Thankfully, there are now venues for all types of support and help. Here are some places to go for more information, or to find help for someone in need:

American Cancer Society - Breast Cancer Facts
Cancer Treatment Centers of America - Breast Cancer Info
Mayo Clinic - Breast Cancer in Men
MedicineNet.com - Breast Cancer Symptoms, Signs, Stages, Prevention, Detection, Facts, Treatment
NBCAM.org - National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
National Breast Cancer Foundation - Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Pink For October - Raising Awareness For Breast Cancer
Pink Ribbon - International Breast Cancer Awareness & Funding
Susan G. Komen for the Cure - Breast Cancer Awareness, Info & Resources
WebMD - Breast Cancer Facts

Acceptance Of Hair Extensions Grows

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist

I'm always "in the news", catching everything I can on hair styling, hair coloring, and of course, hair extensions. It's important to me to keep as up-to-date as possible for the women I see at my salon. Most of what I read is a rehash of old stories. Every once in awhile you come across something that is a unique perspective or something truly useful. This is my goal in writing my blog specifically for people who have or want to have hair extensions.

I've seen the trends in hair extensions grow far beyond the Hollywood jet set and into more mainstream America as more than just ethnic women (who have been using forms of extensions for decades) and the very elite have found the benefits of hair extensions. On my website, I've discussed my own experiences with hair extensions of every conceivable kind, and it truly has been an evolution not only in the quality of hair used and the assortment of attachment methods available today, but also with who is using them.

Just as women were once petrified to admit to plastic surgery (and look at how common this is today), they once were also afraid of what others would think if they admitted to using hair extensions. It seems as if the social stigma has faded, and more and more women across the country are seeing that they are able to enjoy long beautiful hair that can be styled and worn in thousands of different ways.

Today, I read a story that generated out of Pennsylvania. The focus of the article was on hair extensions, proving to me that the acceptability of hair extensions is certainly strong when salons in America's mid-Atlantic region are seeing 40% growth in women requesting quality hair extensions!

One stylist interviewed in the article stated that, "This is very individual, not a one-size-fits-all, so it depends on the person's (natural) hair and what the client is looking for." She continues, "There's a certain level of commitment the client must make for the cost, the initial appointment and the maintenance. But those who do it are very pleased and look fabulous. It can make a dramatic difference in how a woman looks and feels about herself and that's worth a million dollars."

I can't agree with her more on her last statement. I've seen so many clients come to me who were just generally "feeling down" about their hair and their looks, were going through personal hardships which left them depleted of energy and "the zest for life", or who were rebounding from physical illness and needed a good boost. The transformations that can occur with women who get quality hair extensions is sometimes amazing, not only in physical appearance, but in the woman herself. The confidence, spirit and happiness that comes with feeling better about yourself is a wonderful thing to see happen before your eyes. It's the part of what I do which is so rewarding.

REFERENCES:
Extensions of Yourself - Melissa's Own Story
Reading Eagle - Women look for longer locks in 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. 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.

Discount Fever In The Salon

A look at the Dangers of Discounting, Couponing & "Social Buying Sites"

In this age, where "discount-focused" marketing tools, also referred to as coupon sites or social buying sites, I wondered how this has affected the hair salon and beauty industry. You're probably familiar with GroupOn and Living Social, as they're the most popular in the San Antonio area. But, there are dozens more that have sprung up quickly, all offering exposure to businesses and great discount opportunities for consumers. But is it all it's cracked up to be?

Many of us are gradually becoming hardwired to look at paying less than full price. The new status symbol has shifted from, "what great quality/service I received" to "look how much I saved." Many who would typically be quite satisfied with paying full price for the service or the product (or perhaps even on sale at a 10% discount) from an establishment we've been frequenting, are now attempting to bargain or talk down prices. This can have a serious down side at a hair salon. 

Why? When a salon offers a discounted service like this, they're banking on the fact that you'll be a returning client. It's really the only way that they can possibly break even on the pricing structures that the coupon sites use. Typically, the sites ask that you discount your service/product by at least 50%-60%. They then split the amounts purchased by consumers, making the salon's actual earnings only 25% of their regular fees! You don't need to be a CPA to realize that the winning party here is the coupon site, not the salon. The salon hasn't paid their employees, the utilities, the rent, advertising, or any of the other overhead and operating expenses.

There are two ways a salon can get around this. The first might be to artificially inflate the true "regular price", so that when they reduce the fee by half, it's not as big a hit. I've actually had this suggested to me when I met with one of the local "knock-off" companies to GroupOn. Or, a salon might also be encouraged to make limitations to the offer, usually hidden in the fine print within the ad details. For instance, if the 50% off foils offer was made, they could limit the number of foils to just 6. We all know that six foils wouldn't even be worth your time at the salon, as the average head of hair takes many more for a good highlighting.

I've seen these strategies used and I don't like it. I wouldn't want to be on the consumer end of a business feeling like they had to take a shortcut in order to avoid taking a loss. I provide professional services and I have worked hard for many years to perfect my skills. I would not consider a shortcut or do less than my absolute best because I'm not getting paid for my time and effort. And that's a risk with these coupon programs.

For these reasons and more, I've chosen not to participate in the social buying fever that has been pretty active in the San Antonio area. I would much prefer to offer my clients quality services at fair prices every day of the week. By doing this, I hope to develop a loyal following of clients whom I love working with on their hair extensions and hair care needs.

REFERENCES:
About.com - Web Trends
CIO.com - Coupons 2.0: Ten Social Buying Sites That Add Up To Savings
Quora.com - Groupon: Is there a large enough market for more group coupon sites?

RESOURCES:
Groupon.com - The Daily Groupon
Livingsocial.com - The Best of San Antonio

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 
Melissa White is an experienced 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.

Is Red The New HOT Color?

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist

Red is back, and it's making a splash in Hollywood and beyond. We've seen the big and small screens heat up with luscious redheads who are pushing new color trends at salons. Even Katy Perry got in on the act for her cover on the new issue of Vogue magazine, where she sports a very vibrant orange red.


Christina Hendricks
by Ruven Afanado

Redhead celebrities like Jessica Chastain, Katy Perry and Christina Hendricks are leading the way, but there have certainly been plenty of natural redheads and those artfully created.

Other Famous Celebrities Who've Worn Red
(Some natural and others not):

• Ann Margaret
• Rita Hayworth
• Katharine Hepburn
• Jane Fonda
• Carol Burnette
• Lucille Ball
• Bette Midler
• Sophia Loren
• Linda Evangelista
• Gillian Anderson
• Kate Walsh
• Geena Davis
• Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York
• Rose McGowan
• Molly Ringwald
• Nicole Kidman
• Julianne Moore
• Susan Sarandon
• Drew Barrymore
• Marcia Cross
• Emma Stone
• Julia Roberts
• Debra Messing
• Lindsay Lohan
• Rihanna

If you want to see a nice selection of red hair colors, check out the board "Best Red Hair Colours" posted by Ferhan Talib in Pinterest.

So how can you tell if you'd be a good candidate for a change to red hair? While almost any skin tone can vamp up with reds, you need to be somewhat careful in selecting the correct shade for your skin. Colorists vary in their opinions when dealing with reds. Some say that lighter/cooler skin tones tend to look best in deep, cool reds, and darker/warmer skin tones can wear strawberry blond to rich auburn shades with ease. Others contradict a bit by saying that darker skin tones look best in deeper, cooler shades of red while lighter skin tones should choose a lighter, warmer shade of red. Most all agree that if you had red hair as a child, or have parents who have red hair, it's going to look a lot more natural on you.

Many experts feel that reds look best on people with green or blue eyes and cool or creamy skin. And, red can be such a drastic change that it's often best to convert slowly. Start with a shade of red that's close to your natural shade, and if you like the way it looks, experiment from there.

One thing you will want to consider is that red color-treated hair requires expert hair care. Although the days of henna coloring have been replaced with colors that are much more natural, and many more shades are available, reds are far from being low-maintenance. You can expect to need touch ups and/or recolor every four weeks to keep the red color vibrant. Your hair stylist may also suggest PM Shines or a glaze to help keep your red fresh and shiny. Reds are very prone to fading and dulling from sun damage, heat styling, and even the minerals you'll find in your water. Shampooing with a high quality shampoo for color-treated hair is a must. Redheads are reported to lose up to 45% of color when shampooing. To combat this, your shampoo must have a pH level below 5.5. Always make your final rinse with cool water.

What does this mean if you wear hair extensions, or want hair extensions? No worry, hair extensions are available in a wide range of colors, and can be matched to your desired shade of red. Here, it is extremely important to see an extension artist who is experienced in color as well as extensions. The higher maintenance that red requires may stress your hair extensions, as well as your own natural hair, and you will need to be placed on a good regimen of hair care and followup visits to your stylist for color touch ups and maintenance of the extensions. Some use extensions for complimentary highlights to accent their own hair which has been dyed red, while others use red extensions to highlight their blond, brown or black hair! The possibilities when you combine hair color with extensions are endless, and can provide for very striking results.

From strawberry blond, light ginger, cinnamon and coppers to rich auburn, deep chestnut, luscious ruby and vibrant deep reds, red can really shine.

REFERENCES:
About.com Beauty - How To Protect Your Red Hair
Daily Glow - Hair-Color Tips For Red Hair
Redkin - Redkin's Hot Reds
Squidoo - Red Hair Color Hairstyles, Color, and Tips
TopicBistro - Red Hair Color Shades - 10 Amazing Ideas
You Beauty - Red Hair Color and Skintone

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 
Melissa White is an experienced 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.

Remembering 911

I pause today to honor all those who were involved in or with "9-11". I remember the day vividly, as I'm sure you do. It now remains a day to remember those who lost their lives in the terrible attack on America and all of the freedoms our country stands for.

We have brave men and women keeping peace, prepared to fight to protect our freedoms in dangerous places all over the world. Most often this is in countries that don't share our same views of freedom and liberty.

I want our friends, family and loved ones home safely.

Let's do our part while we are still here at home. Remember what made our country great. Our Constitution declares our rights, but we must fight to keep them as they were intended - strong and unchanged. Let's return to safer times with all our liberties and freedoms intact. [Remember to vote!]

We're in the HEAT in Texas - What Can You Do To Help Your Hair?

by Melissa White
Licensed Hair Stylist

We've been in triple-digit temperatures here in Texas for most of the summer, and there's no end in sight as we enter September! When we get stuck in a high-heat pattern it certainly has the ability to affect your hair.

Even styling it the exact same way will not work. Your hair is reacting to humidity (even if we don't feel the humidity as oppressive) or lack of it. There are a many changes that occur in your hair strands on a daily basis. Hair is hygroscopic, meaning it is able to absorb or attract water molecules from the air. Dry air will pull water molecules from your hair into the environment, while humid air causes hair to absorb the moisture from the air. When hair absorbs moisture, it causes swelling of the hair. Some estimate that the thickness of your hair can increase as much as 16 percent in high humidity. It's no wonder that in temperature extremes we have so many more control issues with our hair!

Humidity Affects All Hair Types

Humidity is certainly an evil enemy for those with frizzy hair. When we have high humidity even people who normally do not suffer from frizz might battle dry or unmanageable hair, or be flailing with fluffy, dry ends. Heavy, oppressing, moisture-laden air  that comes with humidity can (and usually always will) create bad hair days. This usually results in frizzy or limp locks, depending upon the type of hair you have (curly, wavy, thick or fine). 

What does humidity mean to you? Once your hair begins absorbing the moisture from the air, your hair responds with change. While each hair type responds differently to moisture vapor’s effects, even various strands on the same head can react, and sometimes they react very unpredictably. Proteins in hair aren’t uniform and they can and will react differently to water molecules. This can cause your hair strands to twist or bend, which can take the curl out of fine hair, or can cause frizz or excessive curl for others, depending on your hair type.

Curly Hair Benefits from Use of Products

Naturally curly hair will often curl excessively or be prone to frizziness, even if you've carefully styled it beforehand. This can be extremely frustrating. Curly hair has rougher cuticles so brushing or touching hair should be avoided or minimized when it’s humid. The friction that comes from brushing will leave you with a head full of frizz. In extremely humid conditions, I often advise letting hair dry naturally, use a sculpting spray for curls, wear a braided style, scoop hair into a bun, or tuck under a cap. I love the beach waves for those who have curly or wavy hair because it lets the hair look great without a lot of fuss. In dry conditions, those with curly hair don't have as many issues, and these are usually the best hair days! Keeping your hair in good health, and use products during heat will help eliminate the bad hair days.

Dry Hair Has A Mind of Its Own

Dry hair can be especially problematic. All hair retains water, even if it feels dry. Healthy hair can have 15 to 30 percent moisture in it. Less than that and the dryness can create distressing frizz and fluff. It becomes difficult to style, and tends to break more easily. Damaged and dry hair can be even worse, retaining up to 55 percent of moisture from the atmosphere! You need help in restoring your hair to health before you'll be able to control either the humidity or dry air. Seek help from a professional hair stylist who can help with conditioning treatments and at-home products.

Fine Hair Goes Limp so Keep it Light

Fine hair seems to just flatten out when exposed to hot humid conditions no matter what you do. I know from personal experience on this one, as I have very fine hair. The key here is to go as light as possible with your products. Volumizing shampoo and conditioner are okay, but you need to be especially careful using styling products and don't overdo! Play around with styles and use accessories if volume is needed. There are a few good products which can add volume such as the use of a dry shampoo, root boost, "sugar", or similar products. The use of clips, headbands, and forms can also help achieve volume. Wearing braids can also keep hair from looking too limp, and can be a good alternative to just wearing it down. Braids are hot right now, so take advantage of some of the very unique and creative styles that can be done with braids!

Weather Affects Hair Extensions Too!

Remember that weather and environmental conditions will affect your hair extensions as well. If you have 100% natural human hair extensions, the hair will react according to the type of hair it is, whether curly, wavy, straight or fine! Since an experienced hair extension artist will take care to match the extension hair she chooses to your own hair type, you should be able to treat the hair extensions as you would your own natural hair. However, if you've been given synthetic extensions, or if your stylist has not matched your hair well, you may end up with two or more different hair care needs. I would recommend a consultation with an experienced hair extension artist to get an evaluation to see what can be done to help.

Steps To Take:

Both humid days and dry days have their own set of problems that can try your nerves. The best advice:

• Get your hair in as healthy condition as possible to keep your hair more manageable 
• Maintenance is the key - use a quality conditioner once a week.
• Keep your hair trimmed to remove split ends.
• Keep your hair at a manageable length.
• Use a silicone smoothing product to damp hair if you have thick or curly hair 
• Use a quality root booster product for fine hair and avoid smoothers that contain silicone
• Avoid the sun - UV rays are as damaging to your hair as they are on your skin! 

Lastly, consult with your hair care specialist! He/she can help recommend appropriate products and care for your type of hair. They know your hair better than anyone else and should know how they will behave when used on your 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.

Extensions of Yourself Earns "Circle of Excellence" Award!

Extensions of Yourself is pleased to announce that our San Antonio Hair Extension Salon has earned the "Circle of Excellence" award from merchantcircle.com, a business networking and review site.

The MerchantCircle Circle of Excellence honors businesses recognized for outstanding service. Extensions of Yourself has received compliments and good reviews from customers, neighbors and businesses throughout the MerchantCircle community, and just earned the MerchantCircle's Circle of Excellence!

"Thank you" to all my clients who make this all happen. I'm so pleased to be named to this group of business which strive for excellence in customer service and quality work. Thanks too to my business friends and of course my network connections!  -  Melissa White

Questions From My Hair Extension Clients

by Melissa White

I receive a lot of phone calls from women new to my San Antonio salon, Extensions of Yourself, and I realize that there is still a lot that women do not know about hair extensions. And often, what they've heard from friends or a family member is not fact.  It can cause a lot of confusion.

I've become even more committed to sharing the facts with my readers.  I want to provide the very best information not only as it relates to hair extensions, but so that others can achieve healthy hair. I will be picking a question to answer each month. It may be something someone asked when they first called me, one they asked when they were having services with me at my salon, or one that someone sent to me in an e-mail. Topics may be on hair color, highlights, nutrition, damaged hair, thinning hair, use of clips and accessories, hair products and extensions of course! If you have a question you would like answered, please contact me.

I hope you'll enjoy my upcoming articles, and my new monthly question and answer article.

Melissa White is owner and hair extension artist at Extensions of Yourself, the first San Antonio based hair salon specializing exclusively in quality hair extensions.

Caring For Your Hair Can Achieve Better Looking Hair Extensions

by Melissa L. White
Licensed Hair Stylist

Everyone knows that proper skin care is essential for maintaining youthful skin. We've learned over the years of the importance in proper cleansing, and the use of quality products that nourish and maintain healthy skin, and most women place great importance on keeping their face fresh and youthful. Many women, however, do not realize the importance of proper hair care, and that your scalp ages just like the rest of your body!

As the scalp ages, it loses tone and elasticity just like your face! Cell production steadily declines and your hair weakens. I learned a lot about hair in cosmetology school. We were all taught that the hair follicle is made up of the hair bulb, the sheath and the hair shaft. The hair shaft is made up of the medulla, cortex and cuticle. Blood vessels supply the follicle with much of its nutrients. Hair strands for most women grow about a half inch per month. At any given time, approximately 10-15% of your hair has reached a "resting" phase, after which the hair falls out and is replaced with new hair. The average person sheds 50-100 hairs each day. In usual circumstances, the cycle continually repeats itself. However, when stress, disease, hormones, nutritional deficiencies, medications or even aging itself occurs, the cycle can be disrupted.  When I worked for a plastic surgeon and became certified in Laser Hair Removal. I really learned a lot more about hair because we were trying to eliminate it! 

Without getting too technical and boring, there are three phases healthy hair continuously go through. Simply put, the first phase (anagen phase) is where the matrix cells in the root divide rapidly, forms the cells of the hair sheath, shaft and cuticle, and actively produces keratin - the "essential" of healthy hair. The hair grows about a half inch every month, and stays in this active phase between 2-6 years, depending upon your genetics. Your hair then goes into a short transition stage called catagen phase which signals the end of the active growth stage. It can last 2-3 weeks before going into the third and final stage (telogen phase), which is the resting phase. This lasts a few months for scalp hair, longer for body hair. It is the phase where you shed your hair, as it has completed it's entire growth cycle.

Because your hair has such a long first phase, and because of all the harsh treatments we tend to subject our hair to when styling it, it is essential that it receives proper nourishment. When hair does not, you may notice thinning, dryness, dandruff, acne and other scalp conditions. As stylist at Extensions of Yourself, a San Antonio Salon which specializes in hair extensions, I routinely work with women who have thinning or damaged hair, or who have medical conditions which subject them to loss of hair or thinning hair. While many women choose hair extensions simply because they want fuller hair, longer hair, or a better hair style,  I frequently use extensions as a way of instantly transforming thinning or damaged hair, and helping women feel better about themselves.

You don't need "perfect" hair to start with, as you can work toward improving your own hair as you wear your hair extensions. I consult with each of my client's about the health of their hair and the types of products they can begin using to improve their own natural hair. Each client has their own specific needs, but there are a wide range of quality products I use to help achieve healthy hair. Healthy, well-nourished hair only compliments beautiful hair extensions even more!

Melissa White is owner of Extensions of Yourself, a San Antonio based salon specializing in hair extensions. As hair extension artist, Melissa sees women of all ages for 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.

Hair Extensions Are Highly Sought After

by AWhite

Yes, now it's certain that hair extensions have reached a new level of acceptance and desirability. As reported this morning on WOAI TV in San Antonio, a Houston man entered a salon supply store and demanded money from the register. Before leaving, the robber made a strange request...hair extensions for his girlfriend!

Hair extensions are an investment, and apparently for this thief, demanding high quality hair extensions for his girlfriend seemed like a very reasonable request. Seeming to shock the store manager, who turned over the hair, the robber took the money and the hair and fled. He is being sought by the Houston police.

Yes, this is certainly a strange turn of events, but it does highlight the popularity of hair extensions, which are now used by many more women than ever before. Hair extensions are no longer an item used only by Hollywood celebrities and the ultra rich jet-setters. Many have realized that hair extensions are a convenient and affordable form of self-improvement, allowing women to instantly transform themselves and feel better about their looks.

Extensions of Yourself is a San Antonio salon which specializes in hair extensions. Unlike the salon in the news today, Extensions of Yourself does not stock hair. "Everyone receives the highest quality human hair which is custom ordered and color-matched precisely for them," says owner Melissa White. "While the majority of the women I see view hair extensions as an accessory or something which helps them look their very best, I have a large number of women who use hair extensions because they suffer from extreme thinning of hair, have hair that has been severely damaged from past haircare treatments, or have medical conditions which cause thinning, bald spots, breakage of the hair, or other conditions which make them feel self-conscious. Some of my clients have had cancer and the treatments have left them wanting to feel good about themselves again. Although applying hair extensions to women with thinning or damaged hair is difficult and requires a higher level of experience and skill, the outcomes truly transform the person. It is extremely satisfying helping women feel better about themselves. I love what I do. Done properly, hair extensions truly are extensions of the women who wear them!"

The Purpose of this Newsletter

by Melissa White

The internet carries a lot of information.  My goal is to bring the latest in accurate news about hair trends, especially those that relate to women who want hair extensions, or already have them and want to make the most of them.

My name is Melissa White, and I am owner of Extensions of Yourself, a San Antonio hair salon which specializes in hair extensions. Having used hair extensions for over 9 years myself, I want them to look their best.  I've tried many methods, many types of hair, and many products to maintain the hair. My clients range from those who already have very nice hair but want more of it, or want more length, to those who have illnesses which have caused extreme thinning, and those weak or damaged hair. With proper application of extensions, they can remedy many hair problems and leave you feeling fantastic!

This newsletter is designed to bring you information you can use to improve the quality of your own hair and get the most out of hair extensions.  Please send me an e-mail if you have questions you would like answered or if you'd like to see a particular topic discussed.