If you're a curly haired gal who dreams of longer locks, you may consider the option of curly hair extensions. Perhaps you'd like to flirt with the idea of playing Rapunzel for the day? Fairy tale tresses aren't too far out of reach...
Hair extensions offer a drastic change to the hair. Whether you need extra length for a wedding or formal updo, or desire more volume or lift, you have tons of options available in the form of natural or synthetic locks.
Before heading off to the beauty stores, get to know what types of extensions are available, and learn the various techniques that may be necessary to lengthen your natural curls.
Types of Curly Hair Extensions
There are only two types of hair extensions: natural and synthetic.
Natural
Natural hair extensions are comprised of human hair. The highest quality human hair is considered Indian Remy, this is because the cuticle in Indian Remy hair is straight and flat and flowing in the same direction. What does this mean for you? Well, in one word, shine. Indian Remy hair is the shiniest and the most lustrous human hair available. Second in line is European human hair, which is a blend of Indian, Latin American and European hair. You get what you pay for when purchasing human hair and the better the quality, the more you will spend. Human hair extensions are the best option if you want the most natural appearance that can be styled and cleansed as usual.
| Pros and Cons of Natural Hair | |
| Pros | Cons |
| Believable | Expensive |
| Style as usual | Maintenance is top priority |
| Softer feel and touch | Hard to find, must seek professional help |
| Hair can be colored, highlighted or permed. | Can be heavy and bothersome |
Synthetic
Synthetic hair is made up of various synthetic fibers. Synthetic hair can be believable, but expect to spend much more money on a high quality synthetic. Synthetic hair is a great option if you'd like to play with high fashion hair colors, such as pink, red or blue hair. Synthetic hair tangles easily, and should not be styled with heat appliances. Synthetic hair may be a good option if you'd like to try out extensions before spending the full investment on human hair.
| Pros and Cons of Synthetic Hair | |
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable | Less believable |
| Great for fashion colors: red, pink, purple hair | Cannot be styled with heated appliances or washed as normal. |
| Easily found on the market | A stylist cannot color, perm, highlight or heat style. |
| Scratchy and itchy, some find them hard to wear | Good option for short-term trial |
Methods of Extensions
There are two primary options for attaching hair extensions to the scalp, clip-in or permanent.
Clip-in
Clip on hair extensions are the perfect fix if you crave a little fun and seek a temporary change. Readily available in fashion boutiques, small kiosks in the mall, and even jewelry and accessory stores, clip-in hair extensions are sold in a multitude of colors and textures. You'll find lots of curly hair options and a whole spectrum of colors. The hair extensions are constructed on a weft, and the wefts are clipped directly onto the scalp as closely as possible, hair is then combed over the weft to hide the insert. Clip in extensions may be easy to put in before a big date, but the catch is, they must be removed prior to going to bed. Clip in hair extensions are a great option for an instant change... Voila!
Permanent
Permanent hair extensions are attached to your scalp. The process to attach them can vary, such as bonding, braiding or fusing. A professional must put in permanent hair extensions and you can expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $2000 and at six to eight hours of your day for application. As your hair grows, the extensions will grow further from your scalp. The time and cost of maintaining the outgrowth is a top priority to consider.
For some people, permanent hair extensions can be heavy and bothersome; often causing headaches or pressure as the wefts press up against the tender nerve endings on your scalp. Although it takes a good couple of days to adjust to the look and feel of your curly hair extensions, they are the best option for long-term change.
Calling a Professional
Clip in extensions are a conservative option if you aren't quite serious about the time or investment involved in permanent hair extensions. If you are serious about adding length to your curly hair, you may find it hard to find curly human hair on the market. Luckily, several retailers specialize in natural curly hair.
In Hair Co. carries a small selection of Indian Remy curly hair extensions. If you are ready to take the plunge into the world of permanent hair extensions, it is best to meet with an experienced and professional stylist who has the capability to find the textured human hair that suits you.
If the desired curly hair is unavailable, a professional hair stylist will perm your extensions prior to attaching them. A stylist may choose to perm your curls if they are uneven to match the curl of your extensions. Adding dimension to your extensions by highlighting, lowlighting or color blocking are just a few more ways a stylist may choose to individualize your look.
Consider the benefits of both types of hair extensions and then decide the option that best suits your needs.
