Hotheads Hair Extensions, Makeover

I do hair extensions day in and day out, and I always love what I do, but sometimes I get a client in my chair who’s transformation still blows me away.

This client is a cancer survivor. Her hair had finally started to grow back in and she was visiting someone in California where she went to get her first ever set of hair extensions. They stylist ordered no where near enough hair, and then proceeded to remove much of the length from the hair, and then began cutting into her natural hair in an effort to blend in the additions.

We went through and removed all of her existing hair extensions, colored her hair to a more even base color, and then reapplied a very full head of Hotheads tape in hair extensions that we ordered just for her.

The end result is that you can’t even tell she has extensions! She was really happy with the end look and that made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. This is why I do what I do.

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Current Obsession: Hippie Hair

Beachy-CurlsBig, beautiful, beachy hair is what I’m into right now.

I’m loving this mid-tone look, it’s got a slight ombre feel to it, and the head band really accentuates the texture.

To get a look like this I recommend braiding your hair overnight if your hair isn’t already textured. Once it’s fully dried you can finger comb through it to rough it up. To get a really messy feeling you can even run a spray wax or salt spray through it as well.

If your hair isn’t long enough for this then hair extensions may be a great option for you. If you’re considering wearing a look like this only occasionally then clip-in hair extensions would be a wonderful option. If you’re like me though, and want to do as little work as possible each morning, then something more long term might work better. Fusion hair extensions or tape-in hair extensions have more staying power and allow you to sleep with your long hair in. This means waking up ready to go.

If you’re going to be rocking a hairstyle like this then i suggest leaving your make-up more minimal. Big hair shouldn’t be competing with bright lipstick, or overly dramatic eyes. Balance is the key to looking like a fashion plate and not like an overzealous clown.

Taking Care of Your Hair Extensions

Screen Shot 2013-02-10 at 9.39.17 PMCleansing/Conditioning

            Brush your hair with a detangling brush. Use the shampoo recommended by your stylist. Gently, from the scalp to the ends, massage the shampoo in a downward motion and repeat if necessary. Only use sulfate free conditioner and apply from mid length to ends.

Styling/Drying

Always dry your hair using a low to moderate heat setting on your hair dryer. Style as desired using the recommended hair products from your stylist. Remember to keep all heated styling tools away from the bonds. When using blow dryers, flat irons or curling irons, use the appropriate protective serum to protect against thermal damage and add control and shine.

Sleeping

Never sleep when your hair is still wet. Gently gather your hair on top of your head with a scrunchie. A loose braid will also help prevent tangling and matting at night.

Swimming

Before swimming, mist hair with a leave in conditioner or apply a shine serum from the ends of your hair to mid-length. Do not apply directly to the scalp. Loosely braid your hair since chemicals and salt water may compromise the integrity of the bonds. Follow the advise of your stylist for post-swimming hair care.

Removal

Do not remove your hair extensions by yourself! You might damage your real hair. Your extensions stylist is trained in the steps to properly remove your hair as to best preserve the best condition of your natural hair, and not impede the next extension process.

Talking Points for You and Your Stylist: Tape Weft Hair Extensions

53Tape wefts are a relatively new format for hair extension application. Tape wefts are also referred to as sticker hair and skin wefts, depending on the salon. There are a lot of great brands out there producing them right now as well. Some of my favorites include: Di Biasi, Cinderella Hair, So.Cap USA ( SHE by So.Cap), Georgie OSY, and Babe.

Tape weft hair extensions are best suited for “short term” extension wearers, or those who change their hair frequently. Tape wefts are best when worn one to three months and then replaced.

Fine hair works well with tape wefts, since they are completely flat to the head and are easily hidden.

Unfortunately, tape wefts are not good for making short hair long because too many pieces are required, and that decreases the wear time.

As always, the best way to determine what kind of hair extensions are best for you is to visit your local extension specialist. In person consultation in advance is key for making sure you get the amazing head of hair extensions that you’re dreaming of.

And of course, if Northern Virginia is local to you I’d love for you to visit.