UNMATCHED JULY 2016 | Page 22

Here’s some info on hair extension methods: Clip-In Fun, but typically “fake” looking and bulky due to the clips and placement. You can wash and style them just like your own hair. They get ratty and worn-looking from frequent use and the quality varies. You can select human hair or synthetic hair. Clip-ins are great for those who are not ready to commit to wearing extensions on a daily basis. They typically last for a month and can’t be worn for long periods of time. Durability: Highly dependent on frequency of use. Install time: 10 minutes Glue-In This is a short-term method where glue is applied to the base of a weft and attached to the hair close to the scalp. The glue-in method needs a solution to get the glue out to cause minimal damage to the hair. Avoid putting conditioners, oils or heated appliances near the connection, as these things will weaken the glue and cause the wefts (tracks) to slip. Durability: 2 weeks to a month. Must be reapplied every few days or as needed. Install time: 1 – 2 hours Keratin Bond Hot or cold fusion is used on individual keratin bonds. Fusion extensions are great for clients seeking length and volume and want little maintenance while the extensions are in. You can treat the extensions as if it were your own hair. It can take about two to three hours to have a full head of extensions put in and last about four months. This is one of the more costly extensions. Durability: 3 months, but can last 4 to 5 months if you take care of them. Install time: 6 – 8 hours 22 Unmatched Tape Tape-in extensions are small wefts with adhesive tape on one side. It is also called "sticker hair". The application can be done without the use of any tools. In general your own hair is "sandwiched" between two strips of tape extensions with the adhesive tape glued together. This method is primarily used for thin hair. Durability: Things can get tangled as your own hair starts to grow. Install time: 30 minutes – 1 hour Micro link Micro links can be known as micro beads or locks, they are gentle to put in and easy to take out. Links can be added for length and volume. There is no glue or heat used when applying. To apply, hair is pulled through a small bead or lock and clamped shut. Durability: 1 – 4 months. Install time. 4 – 6 hours Sew-in Sew-ins, commonly known as weave, are cost-effective, easy maintenance and fairly easy to remove. They are ideal for coarse, curly or thick hair that’s able to handle them. They’re applied by being sewn into a tightly-braided section of your own hair. Not all hair types can handle the stress from the braiding and weight of the extensions. The extension may need to be retightened every now and then. Hair can be washed regularly. There are many different textures, colors and types of hair for clients to pick from and there are many different price points, based on quality and length. Durability: 1 – 4 months or longer depending on the quality of the hair and how fast your hair may grow. Install time: 3 – 4 hours 23 Unmatched