Do Hair Extensions Damage Your Hair? Truth vs. Myths Explained
Hair extensions are the secret to getting longer, fuller, and thicker hair in an instant. Whether you’re attending a special occasion or experimenting with your look, these bundles or wefts are seamlessly attached and blended into your real hair so it can be styled immediately.
That said, a major concern within the beauty industry and among patrons is how extensions can potentially damage hair. Many myths have sprung up in fear that there is more risk than reward for choosing these hair additions. Fortunately, studies have been conducted to test whether there’s any merit to these claims. This article will examine the recurring questions about hair extension damage to separate fact from fiction.
Here are the truths vs myths explained about extension damage to your hair.
Myth: Extensions damage your natural hair
This is the most common misconception about extensions when the truth is your natural hair can be kept healthy and undamaged by working with a salon stylist. They are the experts who can choose the right high-quality extensions for your hair type, and texture and explain the correct method to care for your hair. In doing this:
- You can learn the proper care methods to keep your natural hair and extensions in excellent condition.
- Your extensions can act as a protective method to shield your natural hair from everyday styling and avoid damage.
Truth: Extensions can damage hair without proper installation
The other side of the myth that extensions can damage your hair is true if the bundles aren’t installed incorrectly. Most damage is caused by home attachments done without the necessary skills to do it properly. This is why visiting a professional hairstylist to apply your extensions is vital to minimizing potential breakage. It also:
- Extends the length of time your extensions can remain fresh and pristine in your hair.
- Ensure your hair installation doesn’t add tension to your cuticles using the appropriate method and tools.
Myth: Hair Stops Growing with Extensions
This myth comes from the misunderstanding that extensions are applied directly to your roots when truthfully, they are installed along the shaft nearby. Thus extensions don’t interfere with your normal or natural hair growth which begins on your scalp. In addition to this:
- Extensions can protect hair growing from the roots by reducing the need to style your real hair.
- Following the right care and maintenance routine can promote hair growth even with extensions.
Truth: Hairlines need extra care when wearing extensions
Your hairline or edges are the most vulnerable part of your hair wearing extensions. This is because the section is susceptible to damage as the thinnest part of your hair by the roots where installs can pull on your hairline. Thus salon stylists can protect your edges by:
- Choosing the right extensions that support the weight and texture of your hair to release tension.
- Apply the wefts a few at the correct position a short space away from your roots and hairline.
Myth: Clip Ins do the most damage to hair
Ironically, clip-ins are considered the safest hair extension type because they offer the most flexibility. They can be put in and taken out on the same day without adhesives, or styling tools and have the most user-friendly installation methods. To get the best from clip-ins and prevent damage:
- The extensions must be removed before sleep and clipped a short distance away from the scalp.
- Don’t repeatedly attach the extensions to the same spot on your hair as this strains the strands.
Truth: Extensions can cause hair loss if worn too tightly
Hair extensions can increase your risk of developing hair loss and thinning complications known as traction alopecia. However, this condition is often caused by wefts being too tightly attached to your hair and keeping your extensions longer than the recommended six-week maximum. Therefore, the key to avoiding this hair loss is:
- Giving your natural hair enough time to breathe and stimulate regrow between wearing extensions.
- Working with a professional stylist to use the correct adhesive and gentle technique without tightening.
Conclusion
Many myths and thrust surrounding the hair and beauty community are legitimate concerns that can be debunked with the right knowledge above. As such, hair extensions can potentially damage your hair without the proper installation methods.
The best way to avoid any negative effects on your hair is to choose a stylist to attach them with the right skills, techniques, and tools. Practicing good hair habits and care can also go a long way to preventing your hairline, shaft, and roots from thinning, breakage, and loss. Visit your nearest salon to get a professional extension service and benefit from the extra length while preserving the good quality of your natural hair now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, all hair types can wear extensions, however the type and texture of your natural hair will determine which ones are the best suited for you.
It depends on the extension type as clip-ins can be worn and removed after a few hours while weaves, tape-ins, and bonded bundles of hair can last up to three to four months when taken well care of.
Extensions can be dyed, however, it’s recommended to see a salon professional to color them to avoid damaging the hair bundles before you wear them.
A key tip to taking care of extensions is to treat them like your own hair. This means washing, conditioning, and moisturizing regularly will prolong the condition of your installs and prevent damage to your hair.