Thursday, October 15, 2009

How Long Can You Safely Keep Hair Extensions In Before Removing & Reinstalling?

How long hair extensions can be installed depends on the type of extensions, the quality of the extensions, the skill of the stylist and the application method. There are weaves that can last as much as three months and bonded extensions that can last as much as two months, but should be checked every 4-6 weeks to make sure there are no problems developing with the scalp, and to make sure the adhesive is holding well.

Your natural growing hair sheds about 100 hairs a day. These are the hairs you find in your hair brush and in your shower drain. Hair shedding plays a critical role in determining the safe amount of time an extension attachment can be worn.

When extensions are in your hair, your natural hair is still shedding at its normal rate, and the shedding hair becomes trapped in the hair extensions. So if
you have the hair extensions are installed longer than the recommended time, your natural hair that has shed may matt and tangle with the hair extensions.



Consult your hair stylist about how long you can keep the hair extensions installed. Make sure you follow your stylist’s instructions for caring for your extensions. Keep your hair clean and conditioned and follow your hairstylist instructions.


Wednesday, October 14, 2009

What does the term "bulk hair" mean?


Bulk hair is loose hair that is used mostly for individual braids and braiding. The loose hair is packaged in a 4 oz bundle and ready to use. 

Friday, September 18, 2009

Need Help Choosing Your Hair Extension Color?


Choosing the right color is easy with our color chart and color ring.  We offer three options:
  1. Online hair color chart.
  2. Purchase a color ring.
  3. Color ring on loan program
Tips:
  • When selecting a color, keep in mind that an exact match may not be possible. Try blending a hair color that is slightly lighter or darker than your own hair, as it will likely look more natural and will add depth and variance to your hair color. 
  • When choosing a hair color, keep in mind your skin tone. You'll look best in a hair color that complements your natural skin tone.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Clip On Bangs


Sultry Long Clip On Bangs were featured in Glamour and Siempre Mujer Magazine. They are the best, because you don't have to be stuck with them. If you change your mind, or want a different look, you can do it at the drop of a hat. No commitment just change your look in less than 10 seconds!
  • 4 3/4 inches wide x 5 inches long
  • Need a different size? We can customize your bangs. 
  • Hand made
  • Lays flat and is undetectable
  • Made with 100% Remy human hair
  • Polymer coated clips provides a comfortable fit yet superior gripping power.
  • Triple Wefted

Wednesday, September 09, 2009

How to Find the Right Hair Extension Stylist


Finding the right hair extension stylist for your needs will take time and patience. So give yourself plenty of time to do so, so you do not make a hasty decision.

Referrals

Ask around...word of mouth referrals are the best way to find a hair extension specialist. Ask for referrals from friends, family, co-workers, or even strangers that have a fabulous hair extensions you like. The internet is also a great resource. Google!

Reputation
Choose a hair stylist that has a good reputation. Check with the BBB, to see if the hair stylist is a member and also check if any complaints have been filed.

Consultation
After you have narrowed down your list. Book an appointment to see the hairstylists your interested in. Many hair stylist offer free consultations, while others do consultations for a fee. Bring a couple pictures of the hair style, length, cut, and color you desire. During the consultation it is important to listen carefully and ask questions. Below is a list of questions you should ask and things you should look for during your initial consultation.
  • Experience: Choose a hair stylist that is skilled in the specific hair extensions that you are seeking. There are several different ways to install hair extensions, so ask if they are certified and experienced in the hair extensions method you desire.
  • License: Hair stylist are required to display their license in their place of business. Verify that the hairstylist is licensed.
  • Pricing: It is also important to ask the hair stylist for their prices. Try to get an exact cost for your installation. Don't leave anything to assumption. Be sure to verify if the price includes the cost of the hair, installation, hair cut, style, and anything else you may want.
  • Type of hair extensions: It is also important to ask the hair stylist what type of hair they use for the installation (virgin hair, Indian hair, 100% human hair, synthetic hair etc). If you have a hair vendor you prefer, ask if you can supply our own hair. And if so, how much would it the installation then cost.
  • Time: Ask about how long the installation will take. This is important to know so that you can schedule an ample amount of time for the appointment.
  • Client Referrals: Ask for referrals from clients. Some hair stylist will either give you a list of clients you can call; while, others will have client testimonials that you can read.
  • Client Pictures: Ask to see before and after pictures of clients. Most experienced hair stylist will have a portfolio of their clients for you to look through. If you like what you see, chances are you will probably be happy with your installation.
  • Policies: Ask the hair stylist if they guarantee their work. Do not leave anything to assumption. It is important to know how they will handle a situation if for some reason you are not satisfied with their work. Will they fix the problem at no extra cost to you?
Appointment
After you have your initial consultations and have chosen a hair stylist, schedule an appointment. The first appointment is important. Don't assume the stylist will remember what what you told them in the consultation. Bring a couple pictures of the hair style, length and cut you desire.

All of these steps may seem time consuming and a waste of time. However, a hair stylist can make or break your overall appearance. A great hair stylist can do wonders while a bad stylist can cause pain and heartache over your hair. Take the time to make sure you are completely comfortable with a new stylist before you trust them with your hair.

Click here for our hair stylist/salon directory.

Tuesday, September 08, 2009

Hand Tied Weft Versus Machine Weft


What is a weft?
A weft looks like a little curtain of hair attached together at the top and free flowing at the bottom. Wefts are made by machine (machine weft) and hand made (hand tied weft). Wefted hair is hair can be sewn, or bonded with glue or tape.

What is the difference between hand tied and machine weft hair?
 The difference between hand tied weft and machine weft is that hand tied wefts are done by hand and are much thinner than machine wefts. Hand tied weft lay flat against your scalp to give you a more natural look and significantly reduce bulkiness. Hand tied wefts come in pieces of about 24" long, you get about five pieces per pack, more or less, depending on the length of the hair. The hand tied wefts must be reinforced before cutting and must be sewn around the weft, not through the weft. You can do this either with a glue (nail or fabric glue works great) or by sewing the weft down before cutting. Machine wefts done by machine and have a thicker weft. They do not need to be reinforced or secured before cutting and you can sewn through the weft.

What is the best way to cut/sew wefts?
Hand tied wefts should never be cut before securing. If it is cut without securing the weft, it may shed. If it is cut, we recommend that you seal it with a hair sealer or glue (nail glue or fabric glue). Also, one should never sew through top of the weft and it is recommended you sew around the weft. With machine wefts, you can cut where desired. We cannot stress how important this information is, the main reason for wefts shedding is because the weft is not cut or sewn properly.

Friday, August 28, 2009

All About Seamless Hair Extensions


What are Seamless Hair Extensions? 
Seamless hair extensions also known as Skin Wefts and Invisible Wefts are hair extensions attached to a base made of a thin poly base, the hair is injected into the base for a very natural look. This allows for it to look like it is growing out of your scalp. 

Will the Seamless hair extensions damage my hair?
The Seamless hair will not damage your own hair, if installed and removed properly. The seamless hair is easy to apply and remove. In addition, hair extensions help to protect your hair from curling irons, blow dryers, styling heat and environmental damage.

What makes Seamless hair different than any other method? 
The hair is not sewn, braided, or cliped in. The seamless weft is attached laying the seamless skin weft flat on your hair and securing it with adhesive. This allows for a natural looking, flat hair extension application that looks like it is growing out of your scalp.

What adhesives can I use?
Seamless hair extensions can be applied several ways. It can be applied with hair glue such as Liquid Gold Glue, or with hair tape such as Super Tape and True Blue Tape. If one adhesive does not seem to be holding as long as you would like, it is recommended that you try a different type until you find one that works for you. What works for someone else, may not work for you and vice versa, as everyone has different body chemistry  (ie. produce more/less sweat and oil).

How long does it last?
The Seamless hair can last up to several installs, with proper care. Click here for our hair extensions guide for more information.

How long will the seamless hair last until I have to take it out and reapply? 
On average it lasts from 4 to 6 weeks. It depends on the adhesive you use, if your hair is oily and if you use oils or conditoners in your hair. 

Can you wash your hair with the skin wefts? 
Yes, you can shampoo and condition with the hair extensions in tact. Just make sure to not apply condition directly to the bond area. The oils in hair conditioner may cause the slippage. If it starts to loosen up because of oil in your hair, then simply take it out, shampoo and condition your hair and the Seamless hair to remove excess oil and adhesive. Then, reapply the adhesive and put it in your hair again. It's really a fast and easy way of applying extensions. 

How many packs of skin wefts will I need? 

For added volume =1/ 2 pack (2.2 oz)*

For highlights=1/2 pack (2.2)*

For a full head application = 1 pack (4.4 oz)


* Sold by the pack (4.4 oz).


How is it applied? 
Step #1- Shampoo your hair to remove excess oils and dirt. Use a condition to the botom half of your hair only. If you apply it to the top half, it may cause slippage.
Step #2- Starting at the bottom of your head, make a part. It is recommended to make your first part, just at your ears. Be sure to leave enough hair out at the perimter and bottom of your head to cover the hair extensions. 
Step #3- Measure the desired length by holding the Seamless hair up to the parted area of your scalp. Then, cut the desired length of the Seamless hair. 
Step #4 - Apply your adhesive of choose to the Seamless weft area.
Step #5 - Apply it the sectioned area.
Step #6- Make another part about 1/2" above. Pepeat the steps above, until you have added the desired number of rows.  Be sure to leave enough hair out at the perimeter and bottom of your head to cover the hair extensions. 



Tuesday, August 25, 2009

All About Fusion Hair Extensions


The basic concept behind fusion bonding is to fuse the extension with the keratin protein onto the natural hair, strand by strand. This unique process involves applying pre-tipped hair that consists of a small group of hair to form a strand. Fusion hair extensions can be applied in different ways: hot or cold fusion. As with any service, it is advisable that you buy quality hair extensions and get an experienced, trained extension technician to install.  

Hot Fusion
Hot fusion uses heat to soften the bond of the extension before attaching it to a section of your hair.  The type of hair extensions needed for this method is u-tip hair. You will need about 200-300 strands, depending on the fullness desired. This method will last 6 months or longer with proper care.

Cold Fusion
This newer technique uses no heat which makes it gentle on your natural hair and scalp. This method uses a keratin-based polymer in the shape of a shoe string, that is inserted into a copper cylinder attached to the natural hair, that is then securely cramped together. As this method uses no heat, it is good for fine or thin hair. The type of hair extensions needed for this method is i-tip  hair. You will need about 200-300 strands, depending on the fullness desired for a full head application. This method will last 6 months or longer with proper care. 

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Hair Extensions Products Do's & Don'ts

Shampoo
Do: Use a moisturizing shampoo that has a PH no higher than 7. 
Don't: Use volumizing shampoo, as it may cause your hair extensions to matt and tangle. 
Do: Wash at least once per week. Shampoo more frequently if you use a lot of styling products. 

Conditioner
Do: Use a  moisturizing conditioner. 
Don't: Apply conditioner directly to the bond area, as this may cause slippage.  
Do: Apply condition after every shampoo. 

Styling Products
Do: Avoid styling products that contain alcohol, which tend to dry hair extensions.
Don't: Use too much styling products; which, can cause build up and tangling. 


All About Hair Extension Adhesives







What type of hair adhesive do I use? We get asked this question often. There are so many types of hair adhesives to choose from that it can be confusing. So we decided to compile a list for those of you who may have the same question.

Hair Glue:

Ultra Hold
A waterproof, non-yellowing glue with a brush applicator. It is available in a 0.5 oz and 3.4 oz bottle.
Type of removers: C-22 Solvent, Lace Release.
Type of extensions used: Lace Frontal Hairpieces, Thin-Skin Hair Closures, Swiss-Lace Closures.
Average Hold Time: 4 weeks

A clear silicone bonding adhesive with a brush applicator. 0.5 oz bottle
Type of removers: Pure Adhesive Remover, Pure Citrus Remover.
Type of extensions used: Seamless Hair, Lace Frontal Hairpieces, Thin-Skin Closures, Swiss-Lace Closures.
Average Hold Time: 10 days

Liquid Gold Bond Glue
An oil resistant glue dries clear. It is available in a 2 oz bottle with a squeeze applicator and a 1 oz bottle with a brush applicator.
Type of removers: Liquid Gold Remover
Type of extensions used: Seamless Hair, Machine Weft Hair Extensions, Hand-Tied Weft Hair Extensions
Average Hold Time: 20 days

Hair Tape:

This double sided tape gives a shiny finish. It is available in a 1/2" x 3 yard roll.
Type of extensions used: Seamless Hair, Machine Weft, Hand-Tied Weft, Lace Frontals, Thin-Skin closures, Swiss Lace Closures.
Average Hold Time: 30 days

This double sided tape gives a clear matte finish. It is available in a 1/2" x 3 yard roll.
Type of extensions used: Seamless Hair, Machine Weft, Hand-Tied Weft, Lace Frontals, Thin-Skin Closures, Swiss Lace Closures.
Average Hold Time: 30 days

Air-Flex Bonding Strip
This double sided tape is transparent and is breathable. It is available in individual strips and in a 10 strip pack.
Type of extensions used: Machine Weft, Hand-Tied Weft, Thin-Skin Closures, Swiss-Lace Closures
Average Hold Time: 30 days

This double sided tape is transparent and is breathable. 3/4" x 1.5" wide. 36 per pack.
Type of extensions used: Lace Frontals, Thin Skin Closures, Swiss Lace Closures
Average Hold Time: 30 days

This double sided tape is transparent and breathable. 3/4" x 5 yard roll.
Type of extensions used: Machine Weft, Hand Tied Weft, Lace Frontals, Thin-Skin Closures, Swiss-Lace Closures
Average Hold Time: 30 days
We hope this information provides some help in determining what type of adhesive is right for you.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

How to Choose a Hair Stylist

  •  Word of mouth referrals are the best way to find a hairstylist. Ask for referrals from friends, family, co-workers, or even strangers that have a fabulous hairstyle you like. Ask for names of hair stylist or salons they recommend as well as one's that should be avoided. You should know, that just because a hairstyle looks great on someone else, that doesn't necessarily mean it will look great on you.
  • Verify that the hairstylist is licensed. Hair stylist are required to display their license in their place of business.
  • Choose a hair stylist that has a good reputation.
  • Choose a hair stylist that specializes in your hair type. There are many hair styles and many hair stylists. For example, some hair stylist specialize in hair extensions, or curly hair, while others specialize in African American hair. There are also hair stylist that specialize in a broad range of hair styles, and hair types, regardless of gender.   
  • Choose a hair stylist that is skilled in the areas that you are seeking. Ask the hair stylist about their expertise in hair extensions, cutting, color or whatever service you desire.
  • It is also important to ask the hair stylist for their prices, before getting your hair done.
  • Click here for our hair stylist/salon directory. 

Friday, August 07, 2009

Hair Extension Application Methods




There are many different ways to apply hair extensions and just as many hair extension types. Below we have compiled a list.

Weaving
When weaving your hair in, the hair is sewn with hair weaving thread onto tracks on your head. The tracks are made with your own hair and it is braiding into cornrows against your scalp. 

Type of hair extensions: machine weft hair or hand tied weft hair
Adhesive needed: n/a
Items needed: weaving thread and weaving needle
How much hair needed?: 1.5-2 packs, depending on the length and fullness desired
How long does this method last?: 3 months


Braiding
With this process, the hair extensions are braided into your own hair, using a variety of braiding methods such as tree braids, braid weave, individual braids, cornrow braids and french braids

Type of hair extensions: bulk hair (hair without the weft)
Type of adhesive: n/a
Items needed:  n/a
How much hair needed?: 1.5-2 packs, depending on the length and fullness desired
How long does this method last?: 3 months

Bonding
This process involves bonding hair adhesive onto the hair extensions and then applying them onto the root of your own hair.

Type of hair extensions: machine weft hair, hand tied weft hair, or seamless hair
Type of adhesive: hair glue or hair tape
Items needed:  n/a
How much hair needed?: 1-1.5 packs, depending on the length and fullness desired
How long does this method last?: A few days to one month, depending on the hair adhesive used.

Clip In
Hence the word clip on, you basically clip on hair extensions at the root of your own hair. To clip on, you first snap open the clips attached to the hair extensions, slid them onto the sectioned hair, and then snap shut. The hold should be snug and comfortable and you should be able to tug at them without the extensions sliding down. If not, take it out and reapply.  

Type of hair extensions: clip on hair extensions. 
Type of adhesive: n/a
Items needed:  n/a
How much hair needed?: 1-1.5 packs, depending on the fullness desired
How long does this method last?: Lasts a day, but can be taken out and re-applied.

Strand by Strand
This unique process involves applying pre-tipped hair that consists of a small group of hair to form a strand. These strands held together with a either polymer bond for hot fusion or keratin shoe string shaped bond for cold fusion.

Type of hair extensions: u-tip hair for hot fusion or i-tip hair for cold fusion
Type of adhesive: n/a
Items needed for u-tip: u-tip hair, fusion iron, hair shield, finger protector
Items needed for i-tip: i-tip hair, pliers, metal pulling tool, hair shield, and micro links
How much hair needed?: 200-300 strands, depending on the fullness desired
How long does this method last?: 6 months