Do Hair Extensions Ruin Your Hair?

Do Hair Extensions Ruin Your Hair?

People keen on hair and beauty will tell you that visiting a hair extensions salon and rocking hair extensions is one of the best things you can do in your life. This is because the extensions come with plenty of perks—they add thickness, length, boost your hair volume when you need them most, and give you the perfect confidence boost. Hell, they can even provide you a completely different personality. 

But do hair extensions ruin your hair? Continue reading to find out more about different hair extensions and their effect on your natural hair. 

Are Hair Extensions Bad For Your Hair?

The truth is, hair extensions can damage your hair. Besides, you are adding a foreign item to your hair that can potentially cause a strain on your hair follicles. However, the damage depends on the type of extensions and the mode of application. 

Some extensions are meant to be worn for a few hours a day and need the slightest manipulation of your natural hair, while others are worn for an extended period – sometimes months – after undergoing a lot of natural hair manipulation. From these two types of extensions, the latter is more likely to cause hair damage. 

Here are the two different types of hair extensions and the effect they have on your hair. 

Temporary Hair Extensions

Temporary hair extensions (also called clip-ins) are the easiest to install and the least damaging hair extensions. They are a popular option for people looking for instant and temporary hair extensions – maybe for a dress-up or when attending a special event. 

These extensions are perfect for people who want minimal manipulation of their natural hair but also want to sometimes switch it up. However, for the temporary hair extensions to cause minimal damage to the hair, you need to ensure you use them correctly and follow all the manufacturer guidelines. For example, ensure that you clip them correctly and remove them before you go to bed. 

Permanent Hair Extensions

Just like the name suggests, permanent hair extensions are not designed to be installed and removed immediately. Unlike clip-in hair extensions, these extensions can last a few days or even months while they are still on your hair. For example;

  • Micro-ring extensions are applied at the root of the hair and clamped to secure them. Depending on how they are installed, they can last up to three months, and they have very minimal effect on the hair since they do not use glue or other harsh chemicals.
  • Weaves are applied by braiding the natural hair and then sewing the hair extension on top of the braided hair. Unlike micro-ring extensions, hair weaves can potentially cause a lot of strain to the hair follicles and eventually damage the natural hair.
  • Glue-on extensions are potentially the most damaging extensions as it involves applying glue directly to the natural hair and scalp before sticking the extensions on. If not done correctly by a qualified professional, it can cause severe damage leading to tension alopecia. 

Should I Avoid Hair Extensions Altogether?

While some hair extensions leave clear evidence of damage to your hair, there are some basic steps you can take to ensure that you enjoy the luxury that comes without extensions without doing too much damage to your natural hair. Some of the things you need to do include:

Do Your Research

Before you settle on a type, do thorough research on the types of hair extensions and what effect they have on your hair type – assuming you already know your hair type. Do not leave it to chance (or do a trial and error). Research will educate you on the do’s and don’ts when using hair extensions. 

Let a Professional Take Care of It

Besides the temporary hair extensions, which you can clip in with the most basic knowledge, you should let a professional hairstylist install your permanent hair extensions. A professional will know the right way to fix the hair with the most negligible effect on your scalp and natural hair. 

Ensure You Remove the Extensions Correctly

When removing, some extensions might require you to tag lightly on them after applying water or oil, while others will need you to undo a knot at a time. Removing them incorrectly can easily cause bald patches or irritation to the scalp. If you are not sure what to do, it is advisable to talk to a hair professional working in salons that do hair extensions. Hypno

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