GLAM UP WITH HAIR EXTENSIONS

By Lora Powell

“Can you make it longer?” Possibly the number one joke we hear at Salon Blonde (aside from the bald man that pops in and asks, “What can you do with this?”) Fortunately, now the answer is YES! You can absolutely make your hair longer, and your dream hair is only an appointment away!

Hair extensions are making a big splash this year and are becoming accessible to everyone, not just the stars and influencers. In fact, you probably know someone right now who is wearing hair extensions. When done correctly, they look perfect, seamless, and exactly like your own hair, but better. There are many reasons one might wear hair extensions and numerous methods for installing them. The most popular methods we are seeing this year are the beaded row methods and handtied or smart wefts extensions. The beaded row methods are safe and gentle on natural hair and require no glue or adhesives to install. Hence the reason this method has been on fire this year, not to mention the fact that it can be installed in a way in which the extensions are virtually invisible.

PHOTOS BY MAIDEN AND MOON PHOTO CO.

VOLUME

One reason to wear hair extensions is simply to give a little more volume. This is aptly called a volume row. It is typically one row of extensions that do not make the hair longer but gives the wearer additional volume and thicker more luxurious hair. These extensions can be applied in an invisible method so hair can be worn up, or in almost any way you would wear your natural hair. Sometimes this method just fills in the gaps a person may have in their hair. For example, when someone has a bob hairstyle and does not have a strong perimeter or bottom to their hair or they are thin in the front corners, or other times it is simply someone wanting to add extra fullness to their look.

PHOTOS BY MAIDEN AND MOON PHOTO CO.

LENGTH

Another reason to wear hair extensions is to add length. One can add a couple of inches or opt for the hair to go all the way down to the waist. Waist-length hair can be unattainable for some people to grow on their own, but even if it is possible to grow, it could take years. Having hair that long is not only possible with hair extensions, but it can be achieved in the time it would take to watch a movie. Extensions typically come in lengths from 16-30 inches and at Salon Blonde most of the guests choose the 22inch extensions. It is remarkable to see the difference a set of extensions will make in a person’s appearance.

Before getting hair extensions, it is very important to thoroughly research the stylist and the type of hair used. The right stylist should be someone you like and trust, who has certifications and experience in the methods they are utilizing, and also has photos of their work. In addition, you should be ready to commit to having all your hair needs met by this person. They will need to be your colorist or at the very least, be in the same salon as your colorist.

Having extensions is a commitment and to guarantee the hair lasts and looks beautiful for the long haul, the stylist needs to be confident in the services being performed and the quality of the products used. You will also need to follow the maintenance schedule and product recommendations of your stylist. Hair extensions typically need to be maintained by your stylist every 7-8 weeks depending on how fast your hair grows.

PHOTOS BY MAIDEN AND MOON PHOTO CO.

Furthermore, there are different grades and qualities of extension hair and it is important to get the right type for your personal goals. Hair extensions commonly last 3-4 months, with the best quality hair lasting up to 18 months. Your stylist should be able to guide you and explain which kind of hair you are purchasing. For hand-tied extensions and the beaded row methods, it is important to get the longest-lasting, highest quality, luxury hair you can get. It must be 100% human hair, or Remy hair, which means the hair is in order from scalp to ends. It must be double drawn so all the shorter hair has been removed leaving a thick perimeter on the final product. The cuticle should also be intact, and the hair should be free of harsh chemicals, colorants, and silicones.

PHOTOS BY MAIDEN AND MOON PHOTO CO.

If you are ready to go for it and get hair extensions for yourself, here are a few hot tips to keep in mind. First, purchase a silk pillowcase and sleep with your hair in loose braids. You will literally wake up every day with gorgeous hair. Second, you will want to use highquality nourishing hair oil on your hair. Kérastase is the luxury brand Salon Blonde recommends for your hair oil that nourishes, hydrates, and delivers super shiny results. Hair extensions are not for everyone, but almost anyone can wear them. If you have been considering hair extensions, it is time to give them a try!

For additional information on hair extensions or other services offered at one of Salon Blonde’s two locations, visit salonblondetn.com or follow them on social media at @salonblondesouth (Columbia) or @salonblondetn (Spring Hill).

LORA POWELL is the CEO/Owner of Salon Blonde, an elite Redken Salon that gives their clients a superior salon experience.

HAIR BY THE SALON BLONDE ON LOCATION TEAM INCLUDING: LORA POWELL, LAUREN MOSELY, SAVANNAH MOORE, HOLLY TONDREAU, AND MODESTY MEAKER.