How long does your hair need to be?

Hair Extensions Question

Many people wonder about the specific details of hair extensions. One frequently asked question is "How long does the natural hair need to be to get hair extensions attached?"

The answer is "It Depends" Don't you just love those answers!

Let me explain. Every hair extension method has different requirements for attachment. Some hair extensions can be attached on as little as 2-in. of natural hair. Other methods require your hair to be 4-5 inches long.

To find out the specific details about every method you can contact the hair extension company directly or visit their website. Most websites have these details listed, while you may have to send an Email to some companies to find out the information.

Hair Resources Hair Extensions

Hair Extension Methods

Hair Extension Methods

If you are thinking about getting hair extensions and have started to research the topic, you may have come across many different methods of attaching hair extensions.

In fact, there could be hundreds of distinct different methods for attaching hair extensions. All of the the companies that invented the methods claim that their method is the best and doesn't cause any damage to the natural hair.

So, shuffling through all the material can be quite confusing, amid all the claims.

Hair Resources is working on a brand new Hair Extension Ebook intended for the consumer who is looking into getting hair extensions. The book will present all the more popular hair extension methods, aloong with very important details about what to watch out for, where to find reputable salons, how to take care of them and more.

Plus a great bonus, a Before + After Hair Extensions Photo Gallery. See for yourself how hair extensions can transform your drab, boring hair into exciting, sexy long longs.

Coming soon!
Visit www.hrhairextensions.com for announcements of release date--early December 2006

Finding a hair extension salon

Hair Extension Salons

Finding a reputable hair extension stylist or salon can be rather difficult today. There are many unscrupulous businesses that claim to have trained hair extension stylists when in fact they don't have any.

Hair disasters such as damaged hair after hair extension removal, permanent hair loss and other devastating problems can result when a hair extension stylist is not properly trained to attach and remove hair extensions.

There are several ways that you can check out a stylist before getting hair extensions. Below are just a few:
1. Verify with the specified hair extension company that the salon/stylist is indeed trained and certified for that method.
2. Call the Board of Cosmetology and the Better Business Bureau in your area to see if any complaints have been filed.
3. Go to your hair extension consultation prepared with a list of all the right questions.
4. Email editor@hairresources.com to see if anyone has complained about this salon.

These are just a few steps that you can take to avoid hair extension disasters. After all hair extensions are quite expensive, so you need to investigate and thoroughly research every detail before you get them.

For more info on preparing for your hair extension consultation, visit http://www.hrhairextensions.com

Less expensive hair extension method

Florida based company, Richard Gizzi & Associates, has developed a less expensive, high quality hair extension method

Hair extensions are a great way to get instant long, beautiful hair in just a few hours. Most women today want to get human hair extensions, where actual donated human hair is used for the extensions. There are other methods that offer synthetic hair extensions. Some of these methods are also gaining popularity as the quality and realness of the synthetic fiber hair has improved over the years.

This week at Hair Resources, we interviewed Richard Gizzi of Richard Gizzi & Associates, in Ft. Myers Florida. He discussed the details of his new hair extension method called FLhair Xtensions. The Xtensions are available in strand by strand and also in grafted form for hair loss clients. Both methods use Euro-Asian human hair that is processed for tangle control, color selections and chemical texturizing at a production facility in Asia. Textures and waves for both Caucasian and ethnic markets are available in all popular colors in 16” hair lengths.

The FLhair Xtension method is easy and quick to put in and take out, making it a preferred method among hair stylists. Each hair stylist is trained and certified in the method before they can attach hair extensions on clients. Because of the quick installation, removal and streamlined production, FLhair Xtensions are available for a much lower cost than traditional strand by strand hair extensions. A typical full head of extension hair will run around $800.

Traditional methods require the hair stylist to invest from $2,000 to $5,000 for training, equipment and certification. Flhair Xtensions allows the stylist to add hair extension services to his or her salon for a fraction of the cost.

Read the full in-depth exclusive interview with Richard Gizzi and FLhair Xtensions at the main Hair Resources Site. It is a long interview, so be sure to follow through all of the pages for the complete story. Click Here.

Very thin hair after hair extension removal

Hair Extension Questions

Question:
I had a hair dresser put in hair extensions. I had seen some of her other clients with extensions. My extensions were applied with the metal bands and my hair is fine but I had alot of it.When she removed the extensions I ended up with REALLY thin hair. Can you give me some info on why and what to do about it. I am really upset about this and feel totally ugly. My hair won't hold a curl put in by a round brush and blow dryer either.

Answer:
I am sorry you are having trouble with the look of your hair after the extensions. We frequently get Emails from people that have very similar problems. Even though you know you are not alone, it still makes you feel bad.Anyways, I am not a professional cosmetologists and can not offer a professional opinion. However, I have done extensive research on hair extensions and can provide you with tips and advice that I have come across over the last few years. Of course this info is Use At Your Own Risk.

There are several reasons that your hair seems to appear very thin after removing the hair extensions.

1. Normal hair loss every day is 100-150 strands of hair. When you have hair extensions attached to your normal hair, this hair still falls out, but remains attached to the extension hair. This leaves less of your natural hair holding the extension in place. If you leave the extensions in too long, or your hair is fragile, then the weight of the extensions in the hair can actually pull out the natural hair along with the extensions, causing very thin hair or even permanent hair loss. Did you lose a lot of extensions when you were wearing them? And how long did you have the extensions in your hair?

2. Perception--After having beautiful thick hair for awhile, you get used to it. When they are removed your hair appears super thin. Do you remember the thickness of your pony tail before your hair extensions were attached. I.E. was it the size of a quarter.

3. Your hair stylist did not remove them properly. Most damage occurs during the removal process. Did you check out your stylist (i.e. call references, see before/after photos, etc.)

Solutions to get your hair back in shape.
1. Treat your hair very carefully. Try not to do any chemical processing, such as perms, color, highlights.
2. Switch to a thickening shampoo/conditioner. Some shampoos/conditioners I have heard (in various forums) that are good are the Nioxin ones and Aveda Hair Thickening Shampoo . My husband has a hair thinning problem and I ordered the Nioxin system for him. It makes his hair look more healthy and thicker. Follow this link for Nioxin Scalp Therapy System 1 for Fine Hair and other Nioxin Products..
3. Start taking vitamins that are specifically for your hair. I know that Nioxin has vitamins that I have heard work. You might want to ask around or research on the Internet for others. Here is another link to check out:Nature's Bounty Vitamins for the Hair, Tablets Future Hair Extensions?

If you had the human hair extensions, maybe your hair is too fragile to hold the extra weight of the human hair. Maybe you should try synthetic hair extensions. Synthetic hair weighs about 1/3 the weight of human hair and is much gentler on your natural hair. Synthetic hair nowadays looks just like natural hair and is less expensive than the human hair extensions. Check out these methods: www.prohair.us , www.domecosmetics.com

Finally, there is a Hair Extension forum over at HairBoutique.com You can browse and read thru posts concerning people with the same problems that you have, or even create a post yourself. There are many professionals that visit the forum and offer advice. Go to http://talk.hairboutique.com and scroll down to "Hair Extensions"Finally, for additional info on other Hair Extension methods, refer to our brand new site, www.hrhairextensions.com

Hope this information is helpful and that you can quickly restore your hair back to a healthy state.

Can you get hair extensions if your hair is damaged

Damaged Hair and Hair Extensions

Frequently, we get inquiries from consumers who want hair extensions. Here is a question that we recently received:

Question: I have thin/fine hair that is kind of damaged from dying and flat ironing. So I was wondering if the extensions would ruin my hair or if its a bad idea to get them? I don't want to cause any further damage or like permanently ruin my hair.

Hair Resources Answer: I am not a professional cosmetologist, so I cannot give you a professional opinion. However, I have done extensive research on hair extensions and I can share with you some information that I have learned.

Human hair extensions are very heavy, and if attached to hair that is damaged, they can result in permanent hair loss. The extensions can pull out your natural hair because of the extra weight of the human hair and the damaged condition of your natural hair. Synthetic hair extensions weigh about 1/3 the weight of human hair and may be more suitable for your situation.

You can do a stress test on your hair yourself to see how damaged it is. Take one strand of hair and pull it. If it comes out very easily, then your hair may not be suitable for extensions. If you have to pull it pretty hard, then your hair may be okay.

If you really want to get hair extensions, perhaps the best place to start is schedule several hair extension consulations at different salons near you. Get different opinions about how damaged your hair really is and whether it could support hair extensions. See our free resources on preparing for the consultation at http://www.HRhairextensions.com/ and http://www.HairResources.net

Hope this information is helpful. Keep us posted if you decide to get hair extensions and which salon you decide to go with. Let us know if you need help finding hair extension salons in your area (send us your zip code).

Regards,
Perriann Rodriguez
Hair Resources-Creating Better Hair Days!

Getting Hair Extensions-Step 6

Getting Hair Extensions - Step 6 of 6

You have done all of your research and are now ready to go to your hair extension appointment. Your stylist should tell you about how long it will take and whether you should bring anything, i.e. small lunch, books or magazines to read, etc.

If you are unhappy about the color of the extensions, you should mention it right away-early in that attachment process. It may be easier for the stylist to change a color when the hair extensions are not attached to your head.

Hair extensions attachment should not physically hurt you. If your stylist is using a braiding/sew-in method, it is possible to get the braids too tight. This will result in tension and additional stress at the scalp, resulting in scalp soreness and possibly your natural hair falling out.

As far as tipping is concerned, you should tip your stylist for his/her time and the quality of the work they have done. Tips for hair extension services can range from 0-15% of the total price for the service.

Be sure to ask very specific questions about how to take care of your hair extensions? What shampoos, conditioners should you use, can you comb/brush the hair, can you air-dry your hair after you wash it, can you go swimming, can you perm or color the hair, etc.

Improper maintenance of the hair extensions can shorten their life.
Good Luck with your hair extensions!!! Drop us an Email at editor@hairresources.com with some before/after photos and your experience with hair extensions. We count on your input to provide useful information to others that want hair extensions.

Getting Hair Extensions- Step 5 of 6

Getting Hair Extensions - Step 5 of 6

By Perriann Rodriguez

Hair extensions: Step 5 of 6 for getting hair extensions

Check the salon and stylist out

After you have been to all of your hair extension consultations, you will need to sort out all the information so you can decide which method and which stylist/salon to go with.
Before you make your decision, you will need to check out the salon and stylist. There are several different places to go.

1. Verify with your State Board of Cosmetology that no complaints have been filed against the salon or stylist. FYI--There are some US states that do not require a Cosmetology license to do hair extensions. If the stylist does not have a cosmetology license, then the State Board would not record any complaint.
A complete list of links to each State Board is included in the #1 Best Selling E-book, 2005's Most Popular Hair Extensions.

2. Verify with the hair extension company that the stylist is indeed certified and trained by them.

3. Verify with your local Better Business Bureau that no complaints have been filed.

4. Do an Internet search for the stylist and/or salon to see if they are mentioned in any hair extension forums. Email us at editor@hairresources.net to see if we have had any complaints about the salon

5. Check references if the salon has given you some. This is a touchy subject since most salon clients that get hair extensions do not want everyone knowing that they have them. Also, many stylists feel it is unprofessional and inconsiderate to be passing out their clients names and phone numbers.
Another thing to consider when it comes to references is that what stylist in his/her right mind would give out the name/number of a client would give them a bad recommendation?

6. Make a Pros and Cons list for each stylist. Include all the important facts that you have compiled from your research and your consultations. If you have additional questions, call the stylist back, or search online for the answers.
Hair extensions are a big investment and you should take the time to check out the stylists qualifications and the salon's reputation. Avoid major disasters by being prepared


Perriann Rodriguez is the author of Hair Extensions-The Official Consumer's Guide to Getting Hair Extensions and 2005's Most Popular Hair Extensions, both available at the Hair Resources Bookstore, http://www.hairresources.net. For additional information on hair extensions, see http://www.hrhairextensions.com

Woops--Here is Step 3 of 6 for getting hair extensions

Hair Extensions- Step 3 of 6

Sorry everyone, I just noticed that I left out Step 3. Here are the important research steps to follow for finding a hair extension method and salon.

Step 3 is to research all the different methods of attaching hair extensions and select a few that you think might work for your hair. There are hundreds of different hair extension methods. Many salons/stylists will offer complimentary consulations for hair extensions and others will charge a small fee. Either way, you will want to know about the methods before you go to your hair extension consultation.

There is a short list of some of the more popular hair extension methods listed at http://www.hairresources.net/step_3.htm

If you do not have time to research the methods yourself, you can purchase our E-book,Hair Extension-The official consumers guide to getting hair extensions, where all the method details are covered, including where to find a salon in your area.

It is usually a good idea to select several different companies to start with in case there aren't any trained or certified stylists in your area.

Eleven Important Facts To Find About Hair Extension Companies and Methods:
1. What type of hair is used and is it re-useable?
2. What type of training and/or certification is required for the hair stylist to attach hair extensions?
3. How long do the hair extensions last?
4. What type of hair are the hair extensions intended for and how long does your hair need to be to attach the extensions?
5. What are the average costs?
6. Where can you find a stylist that offers these type of extensions?
7. What sort of maintenance is there, and does it cost extra?
8. What are the side-effects of the method? I.e. can it damage your hair?
9. How long has this company been in business? (Type in the search box of any search engine 'company name + problems' to check them out.
10. Are there any guarantees?
Many of the answers to these questions can be found on the websites of the various hair extension companies. You may need to Email some of them to get the answers.

In short, be prepared by knowing about all the methods. Some hair issues, such as damaged hair or thinning hair will be worsened if the wrong hair extension method is used.

Perriann Rodriguez is the author of Hair Extensions-The Official Consumer's Guide to Getting Hair Extensions, available at the http://www.hairresources.net For additional information on hair extensions, see http://www.hrhairrextensions.com

Step 4 of 6 to getting hair extensions

Step 4 of 6 to Getting Hair Extensions

Sometimes when men and women decide they want hair extensions, they just make an appointment at a salon near them and go get them. While this approach may work sometimes, many times the end result is either damaged hair or a very unhappy extension client. If you are informed and prepared to get hair extensions you will avoid many of the common mistakes made when getting hair extensions.

The next step involves using the information you discovered in step 3, so if you are trying to skip steps---go back and do step 3. If you don't have time to spend doing research, you can purchase our downloadable E-Book, Hair Extensions-The Official Guide to Getting Hair Extensions. We already did all the research!!!

Anyways, back to Step 4: Select a salon and schedule your hair extension consultation (and go to it). It may be advisable to schedule several hair extension consultations--even if they charge you. They usually apply this fee to the cost of the hair extensions if you go with them. This is money well spent. Hair extensions can cost from hundreds to even thousands of dollars, so a few $25 or even $50 consultation fees are negligible.

The best case scenario is to select a stylist that is trained and certified in several different hair extension methods. That way, he/she can tell you which method would be best for you. Hair extensions are NOT one size fits all. Different hair textures, different hair condition and desired length and look all effect the type of hair extension method.

To find a salon in your area, you can contact the company directly for a list of certified stylists. This is the BEST method to finding a qualified stylist. BEWARE: There are some hair stylists out there claiming to be certified and trained by XYZ Company, when in fact they are not. Always ask to see a copy of their certification, or call the company to make sure they are certified. We have even run across several stylists that have been 'de-certified' by a hair extension company because of numerous customer complaints.

Below are 10 tips for getting the most out of your hair extension consultation. Bring a notebook and write the answers down so you won't get confused later when comparing methods.
For even more consultation tips, see our #1 Selling E-book, Hair Extensions-The Official Consumer's Guide to Getting Hair Extensions.

1. After selecting a salon, schedule an initial consultation to discuss what you would like to have done and any concerns that you have.

2. Ask about what hair extension experience your hair stylist has and where they received their training. Are they trained in more than one method?

3. Make sure the hair stylist listens and understands your needs and concerns. Does he/she communicate well with you?

4. The hair stylist should ask you about your lifestyle, health, hobbies and your normal hair routine

5. An analysis of your scalp and hair should be done at the initial consultation to make sure your hair is in a condition for successful hair extensions.

5A. Ask what can go wrong with the hair extensions--attachment and removal.

5B. Ask what happens when things go wrong. Is there any sort of guarantee for the products (hair) or attachment?

6. Ask to see before and after photos of hair extension clients, ask for references and be sure to call them

7. Make a mental note of the workspace of the stylist. Is it neat, clean and orderly?

8. Ask how often the average client needs to replace the hair. This is very important for anticipating future costs

9. Get a written estimate for your hair extensions with an itemized list of the services required to achieve your new look

10. Get a written maintenance plan. Plan should include recommendations for products, grooming tools, follow-up appointments and any special instructions

Stay tuned for Step 5 of 6 to getting hair extensions!

Perriann Rodriguez is the author of the top-selling E-book, Hair Extensions-The Official Consumer's Guide to Getting Hair Extensions . For additional information and resources related to hair extensions, visit http://www.hrhairextensions.com/

Hair Extensions - Step 2 of 6 to Getting Hair Extensions

Getting Hair Extensions - Step 2 of 6

By Perriann Rodriguez

Step 2 - Find out about all the different hair extensions methods.
Hair extensions have been around since ancient times. In one way or another, people have been adding to or extending their hair for hundreds of years. Many of the methods used to attach the hair have been transformed and improved over the years. Many of today's methods are much faster and can cause less damage to the natural hair.

For any hair extension method, you will need either human or synthetic hair extensions. These come in various forms and the quality can vary greatly. For additional info on the hair used, refer to our online detailed coverage of Step 2 to getting hair extensions at http://www.hairresources.net

The basic ways to attach hair extensions are: bonding, fusion, weaving, braiding + sewn in, locs, links, tubes, braiding and tape.

Bonding: This is the quickest method. A bonding glue is applied onto the weft of the extension hair and then applied at the root of your hair. This is a temporary method.

Fusion: This is a process done strand by strand in small sections. Various types of adhesive based material is used to add the extension hair directly to your own hair. Many celebrities have this type of hair extension since it looks like the extension hair grew out of your own head.

Weaving: Corn rows or tracks are created around the head and close to the scalp. Extension hair, or wefts of hair are sewn on the tracks. Your own hair lays over the tracks for a natural look.

Braiding: Similar to weaving above, tiny braids are created close to the scalp and the extension hair is sewn directly into the braids.

Locs, Links: Tiny locs or links are used to hold the extension hair to strands of your natural hair
Tubes: Uses tiny little plastic tubes that 'shrink-wrapped' the extension hair into your own natural hair.

Tape: Various kinds of special tape can be used to attach hair extensions

This concludes Step 2 to getting hair extensions. Understand the methods used to attach hair extensions and the different types of hair that is used.
Perriann Rodriguez is the author of Hair Extensions-The Official Consumer's Guide to Getting Hair Extensions available at http://www.hairresources.net/.
For additional hair extension resources and info, refer to http://www.hrhairextensions.com/.

Step 1 of 6 for Getting Hair Extensions

Step 1: Determine if hair extensions are for you.

Hair extensions are not a one-size fits all. There are many factors that you should consider before you even think about getting hair extensions.

1. Time. Long hair requires extra time and work. You will need to allow for more time to shampoo, condition, blow dry and style your hair if you get hair extensions. If you currently do not spend a lot of time on your hair, consider how you will make more time in your daily routine to take care and maintain long hair extensions.

2. Money. This is a major factor. Hair extensions can be very expensive. They can range between $500-$6000 and up.

The quality of the hair that is used is directly connected to the price you pay. The higher the price, the better the quality---or at least it should be.

A big part of the expense involved in hair extensions is the labor. Hair extensions can be very tedious to attach--sometimes taking a hair stylist 2-8 hours to attach a full head of extensions.
This hair stylist will be giving up all of his/her regularly scheduled appointments to work on your hair.

And, hair extensions must be maintained on a regular basis-from every 2 weeks to several months depending on the method. Some hair extensions are removed and re-attached. With some methods, you must use new hair each time the hair is re-attached. All of this will require more money.

There are extra hair care products required for some types of hair extensions. Don't spend a fortune getting hair extensions and then ruin them by not buying the right hair care products.

3.Hair Condition. Is your hair damaged in any way? Hair extensions may not be an option for you. Human hair is very heavy and the extra added weight to already damaged hair can cause the natural hair to fall out---even causing permanent hair loss. There are various methods that are designed for damaged hair, but you should always get a second opinion if your hair is in bad shape. No hair is worse than damaged hair!!

4. Follow Directions. Are you good at following directions? Many hair stylists will send you home with a detailed list on how to take care of your hair extensions. If you choose to ignore these instructions, you may be very unhappy with the results.

5. Understand Consequences. All hair extension methods have the potential to damage your hair. You must understand how the hair extensions are attached and what can go wrong. The experience of your stylist is very important for successful extensions.

Hair Extensions Editor

Hair Extensions- Should You Get Them?

Do you really want hair extensions?

Hair extensions are the latest trend for getting instant long, beautiful, celebrity-like hair styles. Human or synthetic hair is attached to your natural hair by one of many different methods for a free-flowing, natural look.

The question is--Are you really ready to get hair extensions? There are many things you should ask yourself before you consider getting hair extensions. We will start with first question that involves time.

1. Do you have extra time or are you willing to make extra time to style and take care of your hair? Long hair requires extra work. Many hair extension companies claim that taking care of hair extensions is just like taking care of your hair...implying that no extra time and work are involved. Ask anyone who has long hair if she spends extra time styling and taking care of her hair. The answer is YES--it takes extra time.

• Extra time to shampoo--there is more hair to wash
• Extra time to condition--Long hair must be conditioned
• Extra time to dry--More hair=More time.
• Extra time to style- More hair to put in the proper place.

These are all Time factors that you should consider. If you aren't willing to "do the time", don't wine when you hair looks aweful.

Hair Extensions: Hair Extensions

Hair Extensions: Hair Extensions

Hair Extensions

Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are becoming more and more popular every day. Some are very expensive hair extensions and then there are some inexpensive hair extensions. So should you base your decision on price alone?

There are many different methods available today to attach hair extensions. Be aware that all hair extension companies claim that their method of attaching hair extensions is non-damaging. There are many men and women out there that have gotten hair extensions and have damaged hair as a result.

It is very important to do your research and understand how the various methods work and whether your particular hair type is going to work with that method.

Visit our extensive Hair Extension FAQ's
Because of the demand for information about how hair extensions, we have created a brand new resource center exclusively devoted to information, including facts and where to get more information.

Hair Extensions Info Center