Natural Hair Extensions: Soft and Fine Human Hair

Natural hair extensions are made using human hair thus unlike synthetic, human hair also feels softer and finer. From Europe, the Arctic region, and Asian countries such as China and India, companies producing these extensions use imported hair. For making human hair extensions, virgin or untreated is the best type. Since it has not been dyed, permed, or treated with potentially damaging chemicals in any way, Virgin hair is the healthiest and strongest.

Caring for Human Hair Extensions

Similar to taking care of natural locks is maintaining them. In the same way one would on natural locks, one can apply shampoo, conditioner, and leave-on moisturizers. To prevent them from tangling, matting, and drying, experts recommend using cold water and mild shampoo. Without having to worry about the extensions melting or getting damaged, one can also use flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers on them. Though this will need monthly visits to one’s stylist for regular touch-ups, one can also receive a color treatment. One can do so much more with human hair extensions than synthetic ones, with hundreds of types and hair colors.

Methods of Applying Hair Extensions

Extensions can be applied in various ways. Usually, three methods are used for this purpose. Depending on one’s stylist and natural locks, each method is a lengthy process that has its own variations.

• Fusion is the first method which is also referred to as strand-by-strand. Applying a special glue about one-fourth of an inch from the root, this method involves sectioning your locks into small strands. With natural hair, the extensions are then fused.
• Bonding is the second method, wherein attaching the weft close to the roots, the stylist applies a special kind of glue to the weft of the extensions. Bonding may cause scalp irritation and hair thinning if not done correctly, as with all methods of applying. Using glue removers that have a high oil content to break down the adhesive that holds them in place fused or bonded extensions can be removed. The best idea is to do natural hair care so that hair stays shiny and smooth forever.
• Weaving. The stylist creates tracks around the head to weave extensions in. Located very close to the scalp, tracks are small sections of braided hair. For a more natural look, real hair is placed over the tracks. After creating tracks, using a special kind of thread and a needle with a blunted point the weft is sewn into the tracks. Attached to the flow of vertical human hair extensions, a weft is the collection of horizontal hair strands. By simply cutting the thread used to sew the hair extensions into the tracks, woven extensions are removed.

To maintain shiny and smooth natural hair extensions, it is important to follow a natural hair care routine. This includes regular washing, conditioning, and styling with heat protectants. Taking proper care ensures that the extensions stay in good condition for an extended period.