Hair trend alert: extensions are back in fashion

Extra-long hair is more popular than ever. While the bob remains a classic, practical, and versatile cut, and short styles like Kasia Smutniak's stunning bixie cut are making a comeback, more and more women and celebrities are choosing to sport XXL tresses. Over the past year Gigi Hadid, Priyanka Chopra, Victoria Beckham, Demi Moore, and Meghan Markle have all opted for Rapunzel-like hairstyles, sparking a trend that many have followed. Do you remember Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney front row at Paris Fashion Week SS24, the former with micro bangs and super sleek, layered lengths, the latter with blonde Botticelli waves? At the Venice Film Festival, Nicole Kidman arrived in a black Bottega Veneta midi dress, paired with subtle makeup and a high, voluminous '50s ponytail with slightly wavy lengths falling past her shoulders. Covering the bare back of her Tom Ford gown were Nirvana waves sported by Giulia Salemi, while Eva Herzigova graced the red carpet with super voluminous curls, almost like a feline mane that reflected the mood of her Etro X Wolford outfit. How do these stars go from medium cuts to extra-long hair overnight? In many cases, the secret is extensions.

The Return of Hair Extensions

It seems that the first traces of using extensions or wigs date back to ancient Egypt, where nobles and pharaohs tied human hair or animal fur to add length and volume to their locks. This beauty hack has spanned centuries, reaching 1951 when a woman named Christina Jenkins developed the idea of attaching hair to a net that was then sewn to the base of the client's strand, an ancestor of today's sew-in technique still used. Since then, the extension industry has continuously evolved, introducing ever-new techniques and better products. Forget the fake, artificial look of the past. The extensions of 2024 are often made from real hair, selected, attached, and styled according to personal needs.

Which Extensions to Choose?

Those looking for a temporary change, a special hairstyle for an event or occasion, can try DIY by purchasing clip-in or tape-in extensions, the simplest and quickest way to add length, thickness, and volume to the hair. If you want something more permanent and guaranteed to achieve an excellent result, it's better to turn to a professional. Visit your hairdresser and ask for advice. The world of hair extensions is vast and complex. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to have someone guide you toward the most suitable option for you. When choosing, factors such as your natural hair type, starting length, lifestyle, and more must be considered. Crucially, why are you opting for extensions: to thicken thinning hair, create a special hairstyle, or simply grow your hair to change your look? The answers to these questions will determine the right option for you.

Human Hair or Synthetic Extensions?

There are two main categories of hair extensions: real human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions. Which should you choose? Again, it depends on the purpose of the lengthening and your available budget. Let's look at the pros and cons.

• Synthetic hair extensions: These are made from various synthetic fibers, essentially plastic. They are common in clip-in form, usually have an unnaturally shiny appearance, and cannot be heat-styled. Their quality can vary depending on the price, but they are still a great option for first-time extension users or occasional use.

• Human hair extensions: These are made from real human hair, collected from a donor. Naturally, they have a more authentic appearance than synthetic ones and are easier to manage and style. The best ones are labeled "Remy", which means the hair is healthy and virgin (never previously treated), with strands carefully selected so the cuticles remain intact and aligned in the same direction. This ensures the extensions have a soft and silky texture. It’s important to ensure they are ethically sourced.

How Many Types of Extensions Applications Are There?

The hair extension industry is constantly evolving. The methods for attaching extensions to clients’ hair are becoming increasingly high-tech, expanding the range of choices. They can be divided into three broad categories based on their duration. We've already discussed clip-in and tape extensions, which are the simplest and quickest way to extend hair or add bangs, ponytails, and buns. Then, there are semi-permanent extensions, which, if well-maintained, can last up to eight weeks. Among these, the most popular are keratin extensions, which are attached to natural hair by heating keratin that, thanks to heat and specific pressing tools, bonds to the natural strands. Finally, there are permanent extensions, such as microring extensions, where small metal rings are used to hold natural hair strands in place, secured with a clamp. There is also weaving, which involves braids, needles, and thread; micro bond extensions, which are attached to a section of natural hair, wrapped, and then coated with keratin. Among the techniques that guarantee the best final result are LED or UV extensions, where individual strands of hair are bonded to natural hair using a special glue that is polymerized with UV light.

How to Manage Extensions

Contrary to popular belief and the negative experiences reported in the past, if you’ve consulted a good professional and followed proper aftercare, extensions won’t damage your natural hair. However, they do require special care. Here are some tips:

• Be gentle: Choose a round, wide brush with only natural bristles. It’s important to avoid tangling the strands, so brush them gently several times a day without pulling, starting from the ends and working your way up.
• Hydrate: Washing, drying, and styling extensions are very similar to natural hair care, but harsh chemical products should be avoided. Use a very mild shampoo, a regenerating and hydrating conditioner, and ingredients like argan or coconut oil.
• Dry properly: Leaving extensions wet for prolonged periods can damage them, but excessive heat can also be harmful. Dry them with a hairdryer set to medium temperature to avoid damaging the extension attachment points. You can also use a heat protectant product beforehand.
• Never upside down: Remember not to wash or brush your hair upside down to avoid pulling and damaging the extensions.
• Prefer soft hairstyles: To avoid pulling and damaging the extensions, opt for low ponytails and buns rather than top knots and high ponytails.
• Consult an expert: For tips on extension care and removal, follow the advice of your trusted hairdresser, who can guide you best.