When you crave extra volume or length, the simplest way to get the look is with hair extensions. This is a simple, effective tool any great hair stylist can use. Your favorite hair salon can give you the opportunity to level up your style, color, and volume with the wide variety of extensions available today.
There’s definitely a difference between good extensions and bad ones. Before you even get to the application process, you’ll want to make sure the hair extensions provide the desired effect.
So, what’s the difference between synthetic and natural extensions, and why does it matter? We’re so glad you asked.
Why Natural Hair Extensions Reign Supreme
Natural hair extensions are made from real human hair. They blend the most naturally with your hair, effortlessly creating the effect of extra volume and length. The shades reflect real hair colors, so you can find just the right tone to match your own. Natural hair also has more natural color variation. On the other hand, synthetic hair extensions are often single-toned, which can look flat even when the quality is good.
It’s not just the visual that’s improved – natural hair also feels much softer and more pleasant than synthetic. Synthetic extensions are usually made from polyester, nylon, or acrylic, and no matter how realistic the strands may look, they fall and move differently from natural hair. Although they may be more expensive than synthetic extensions, natural hair extensions also last longer.
As any good hair studio will tell you, natural hair extensions are more versatile and easier to style and manage. They react just like the rest of your hair to heat or curling tools. Many synthetic hair extensions cannot be styled with heat at all, and even heat-friendly extensions may have styling restrictions or unwanted side effects.
Unlocking Effortless Elegance With Natural Extensions
With natural hair extensions, you can enjoy your flawless locks for up to a year. Of course, this will depend not only on the quality of the hair extensions but also on how well you maintain them. There are a few simple things you can do to extend the life of your natural hair extensions.
#1 Wash With Care
Firstly, listen carefully to any special instructions about washing your hair. Pick hair products that will care for your natural hair without damaging your extensions or making them more prone to matting. Avoiding sulfates and alcohol on the ingredients list is a great starting point, and your hair salon stylist can give you more specific tips.
#2 Dry Your Hair Before Bed
Once your hair is washed, dry it well before heading to bed. Your hair is at its most vulnerable to breakage when wet, which will take a toll on your extensions. If you’re prone to a crazy bedhead in the morning, drying your hair before bed can help keep things more manageable. Tying your hair back in a loose pony or braid can also help prevent tangles. Wait until your hair is dry to brush it, and when you do, do it with gentle care.
#3 Beat the Heat
If you’re going to style your natural hair extensions with heat, keep the settings low and use a heat protectant. That should be standard even if you aren’t wearing extensions, as heat can cause a lot of damage to your hair if you aren’t careful. We also recommend that you take regular breaks from heat. For example, you could try some heatless overnight curls or some cute accessories once in a while to let your hair rest.
Get Perfect Hair With a Little Help From Hair Bar NYC
Visit our hair salon to transform your look with natural hair extensions. Want to schedule an appointment? It’s never been easier – just pick your desired service in our online shop and make an appointment at your closest Hair Bar NYC location today.