The Do's, The Don'ts & Everything To Know About Hair Extensions!

What are Hair Extensions?   Taking additional hair and adding it to your own hair creating lots of volume and/or length. This can be done using several different methods. The most popular methods are strand by strand, weaving, braiding, bonding, seamless, clips and more. There are many variations to all of these methods which may also be called by different names depending on the stylist you use. Hair Extensions come in both Human Hair and Synthetic Hair depending on your preference and lifestyle. The Hair Extension Boutique does not carry Synthetic Extensions. All of our Hair Extensions are made with some of the World's Finest Quality 100% Human Hair.

Hair Extensions are usually attached by a Professional, however many customers are now able to attach their own extensions at home. We suggest using only Human Hair since you are able to treat the hair just as you would your own. Keep in mind, that Human Hair Extensions come in many different quality grades, which also determines by the variance in cost.  Please see my link "Choosing Your Extensions" which will explain the different grades of hair and methods of attachments as mentioned above.

This will be my first time wearing Hair Extensions, what do I do? First decide if you will be using a Professional to put your Extensions in or if you will be attaching them yourself.  Next decide which Extension application you prefer, as not everyone likes or uses the same method. If you plan on putting in your own Extensions, certain attachment methods may require you to get a friend or family member to help. Choosing the proper color is very important. Some people prefer to match the Extensions to your own Hair color and others prefer getting the Extensions, and then coloring your own Hair to match the Extensions. We gladly offer a free color matching service, so if you want to match the Extensions to your own Hair color, you can send us a hair sample that we will match for you as closely as possible. It is usually best to send a sample from mid length to the end of your hair. Be sure to send enough hair so that we are able to judge the color. You also need to decide on the texture that will blend best with your own hair, in addition to the length you would like your Extensions to be. It is always more economical to purchase your Extensions directly from us rather then from a Professional Stylist or Salon. We also sell to Stylists and Salons, so they are marking the hair up in cost in order to sell it to you!

How much hair do I need? Alot depends on the length and fullness of your own hair, and the look you want to achieve when adding your Extensions. The general rule, if adding fullness only and your own hair is similar to the length of the Extensions, using 2 to 4 ounces of hair should be plenty to give you lots of volume. If your own hair is much shorter then the length of the Extensions you will be attaching, 6 to 8 ounces of hair should be used in order to achieve a full natural look. Also keep in mind, the longer the Extension length, the more hair you will need for a full look. This is just an aproximate guide, and remember it is better to have more hair then not enough. The left over hair will never go to waste and can always be used next time. Our Pre-Tipped and Pre-Bonded European Remy Extensions weigh aproximately 2 ounces per 100 strands. Our Wefts and Clip-In Extensions weigh aproximately 4 ounces per bundle.  If your unit of weight is Grams, 4 ounces of Hair is equal to aprox 110 Grams.

What is Remy Hair?  Remy Hair, which may also be called Remi or Cuticle Hair is hair that is cut from one donor. It is the healthiest hair because it is is hand picked strand by strand to ensure that all cuticles remain aligned and intact. With proper care, Remy hair will stay soft and beautiful wash after wash.

Will my Hair Extensions Shed?  Some Extensions shed more then others depending on the attachment used, but all Hair Extensions do shed a bit which can not be helped.

Is it ok to Brush and use a Blow Dryer, Flat Iron and Curling Iron on my Extensions?  You can absolutely treat your new hair just as you would your own. Curl it, straighten it and most of all, enjoy it!  We suggest washing your Extensions every 3rd day as the hair does not get the oils or dirt clinging to it as your own hair does. Deep wave and Curly Hair textures should not be brushed as it can get frizzy. It is best to use a comb or your fingers to scrunch.

How do I wash my Hair Extensions? Wash and condition the hair in one direction, from top to bottom. Put shampoo/conditioner in your hands and run hair through your palms.  Avoid washing hair upside down in the sink or scrunching on top of your head. It is suggested to use shampoos and conditioners that hydrate and add moisture.

What Products can I use?  You can use Moose, Gel and Hairspray, but be sure that the products are alcohol free as alcohol is a drying agent. Stay away from Shines, Sheens and oils. In between shampoos, a leave in spray conditioner is great, especially on the ends.

Can I color and perm my Hair Extensions?   Because the hair has already been processed with color and in some cases texture, we do not advise having any additional chemical processing. We do offer wavy textures to prevent having to perm the hair which is available in numerous colors. If you want to darken the hair, you can absolutely color the hair using any Amonia Free hair color, and it wll come out beautifully. You never want to use Bleach or attempt to lighten the color, that is a no no!!

Can I color my own hair while wearing my Extensions?  You or your stylist can definetly color your own hair. Just color the area of hair that has grown out or has been left out of the extensions.

What should I do with my Hair Extensions when sleeping? It is always best to make a loose braid or ponytail for sleeping and never go to sleep with wet hair.

Will anyone know that I am wearing Hair Extensions? If the correct amount of hair is used, in addition to the proper color blend and texture, nobody will ever know you are wearing Hair Extensions, unless you want them to! It will be our little secret