Hair extensions are lengths of hair attached closely to the scalp through a number of different methods. Extensions can either be made of real or synthetic hair, and if matched well to the color and texture of your real hair and applied by an experienced extensionist, hair extensions can blend in and move as naturally as your real hair. Some people might even find it difficult to tell tat you are using extensions.

Hair extensions extend the length of hair, provide volume, and add highlights or lowlights without having to undergo hair coloring treatments for extended periods of time with some lasting up to three months before needing any form of maintenance.

Extensions come in a variety of colors, styles, lengths, and textures and can be used to match any hair type. Natural hair extensions or human hair extensions are relatively more expensive compared to synthetic hair because the natural hair extensions can undergo the same types of treatment your hair can – it can be colored, curled, or set. Synthetic hair cannot undergo any of these treatments as they will melt when exposed to very high temperatures. Synthetic hair extensions may be purchased at department stores and should be used as is; natural hair extensions on the other hand, are only available through salons that provide hair extension services.

Having extensions attached is a rather expensive process and you as a customer should watch out for a few things if you do choose to invest in this easy cosmetic enhancement. An inexperienced extensionist can cause damage to your hair – using the wrong extensions and wrong hair extension method can break off your hair. Extentionists should know how to test your hair for strength as well as know the proper way to cut and place the extensions to provide the most natural effect possible.

Extentionists can use a variety of methods to attach hair extensions. Some of the most common hair extension methods are braids, weaves, bonding, metal tubing, heat shrink tubing, and adhesive based fusion.

Braids, locks, twists and cornrows integrate the extensions through braiding, blending it into the hairstyle. This method usually allows for the braided attachment to be shown.

Weaves are tiny braids that can hold the extension against the scalp; the main difference from cornrows and weaves is that the weaves are hidden. Some concerns regarding this hair extension method is the amount of tension it puts on the natural hair. The extensions can become a bit heavy when wet; this may lead to loosening of the weave or hair breakage. Drying the hair under the braids can also become difficult. Some people who have weaves tend to avoid washing their hair often.

Bonding of hair extensions involves the use of a latex plug that is glued to the natural hair and is meant to be used for short term only. This hair extension method is fast and inexpensive. The only concern regarding this type of method is the removal of the extension itself; this requires the application of oil and heat to dissolve the agent that bonds the extension to the hair. The removal process can become time consuming and also messy.

Metal tubing involves the use of a metal tube clamped onto the real hair to attach the extensions. This method can break off your natural hair, can add additional weight, and the metal tubes can be difficult to open later. This hair extension method is not recommended for people with fine hair.

Heat shrink tubing will not harm the hair but will not last long as well. This method does not use any adhesive that can hold the extensions for long. The tubes will loosen after a few  washings and may cause the extensions to fall out.

Adhesive based fusion is probably the best method to attach hair extensions. The type of adhesive used in this method is critical to its success.

If you are interested in getting extensions, try talking to professionals about what you want and your concerns about the process. Get more than one opinion, this way, you have options pertaining to the price and methods used in putting in hair extensions.