2) All you need to know about hair extensions before purchasing:
Remy/Remi hair: is 100% human hair. Remy Hair can be categorized in the ‘premium’ segment, as far as hair quality is concerned. Remy Hair is bundled in such a manner that the roots of the hair are on one side and the tip of the hair on the opposite side. Since all the hairs are placed in the same direction, the hairs remain undisturbed , making them more durable and long lasting. Some Remy hair is also referred to as "virgin" because of the lack of chemical processing to the hair. It means that the hair is pure and has not been dyed, or chemically treated. Remy hair can have different origin: European Remy, Indian Remy, Asian Remy, Brasilian Remy.
100% Human Hair: is 100% human hair not mixed with synthetic fibers. This grade of hair is also excellent and can be long lasting but may have been chemically treated or colored.
Human Hair quality: is human hair often mixed with premium quality heat resistant fiber. Recently some manufacturers have resorted to mixing human hair with heat resistant hair, because the features of the hair do not change significantly and makes the product more affordable to customers. This has been also a result of the price of raw human hair rising up for the last 2 years. Customers should beware when purchasing this human hair quality product because even though it can be curled and straightened, it cannot be died/colored. Also be cautious of not overpaying for human hair quality products as they should be comparatively cheaper than 100% human hair products.
Heat Resistant hair: is made from high quality synthetic fiber, called Futura.This heat resistant fiber usually can sustain up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, is easy to curl or straighten and is relatively inexpensive.
Kanekalon hair: is 100% synthetic fiber called Kanekalon. This is one of the most revered synthetic hair for braiding and the making of wigs. Its is flame-retardant/ non-flammable and quite affordable.
Toyokalon hair: is 100% synthetic fiber named Toyokalon. This is the lowest and cheapest grade of synthetic fiber that is often used for the making of braids and fake/costume wigs.
Yaky/Yaki stands for coarse texture. It resembles the natural hair texture of African-American hair.
Mink stands for silky and it is often found in the following combination "mink yaky".
Kinky represents strong perm and is often associated with afro hair.
Silky is another type of hair texture. Another word for it is velvet. Usually this texture is associated with European or caucasian hair.
- Hair Weaving Teachniques Explained:
Hair extensions/weaves can be applied several different ways:
Bonding is a popular temporary weaving method and a great way to add volume or vibrant streaks of color to your natural hair. Tracks of hair are glued to the roots of your own hair with a special adhesive. To prevent damage to your natural hair, tracks shouldn't be left in longer than a week or two.
Tracking is when natural tresses are braided around the head in concentric circles. The natural hair is braided, then extensions are sewn to the braids. Eight to fifteen tracks are needed for a full head. It is recommended to replace this weave every two months or every time you get a relaxer, since it will loosen up as your hair grows out. You should care for this style as you would for your natural hair, washing at least once a week.
Fusion. The fusion method delivers one of the most versatile and believable weaves on the market. With this technique, a machine similar to a hot glue gun is used to adhere human hair extensions to individual strands of your natural hair (about the same size as a micro braid) for a truly authentic look. With a fusion weave, you can wash your hair every week and use products like gels and mousse to style. This is one of the most time-consuming (8 to 16 hours) and expensive methods (prices range from about $800 to $1,800).
Netting. This technique involves braiding natural tresses under a thin, breathable net that serves as a flat surface onto which stylists can weave extensions. Netting provides more flexibility than track placement because the stylist is not limited to sewing extensions to a braid. This style can last for up to three months if properly maintained. To care for your hair, wash it once a week and invest in a hooded hair dryer or heated cap for at-home maintenance.
Recommendations:
When choosing weaves for your style, pick the texture, color or style most suitable to your natural look.
Human hair weaves are preferred before synthetic hair weaves as they feel more natural, blend better with your natural hair, may last longer, will resist heat and color treatment.
- Hair Weaving Styles Explained:
ST/W usually stands for Silky Straight weave.
Super French is a styles that appears natural and bushy while dry but when wetted the hair curls become more defined.
Body weave is wavy hair, where the curls are big and loose and fall down naturally.
Super Body is a medium curl, not too loose or too tight.
European curl weave is a curly style of medium curls, more tight than the super body.
Deep curl is a style with medium to small curls, where the curls are slightly tighter than the european curl.
Water weave is a style with small tight curls that falls down naturally.
Afro Jerry Curl is a style with very tight and very small curls. These curls look as if they were wrapped around your finger.
Afro Kinky is a natural afro style where the curls are not defined and the hair appears kinky/bushy.
Here are some general rules and recommendations to follow for the maintenance of your hair weaves:
1) Wash and condition human hair weaves regularly.
2) Detangle hair gently before washing. Do not rub or twist hair.
3) Add mild shampoo in cool water and swish hair in it until clean. Rinse thoroughly.
4) Add conditioner to cool water and soak clean hair in it. Rinse thoroughly.
5) Blot out excess hair with towel and allow hair to dry naturally and away from the sun.
6) Do not brush curly hair. Comb gently with your fingers.
7) Brush straight hair ends first, in a downward motion, and work your way up to the roots.
8) Applying oil sheen, hair glosser, mist or any similar products to human hair weaves may cause tangling.
- What you need to know when buying weaves:
1) Most manufacturers package weaving hair in such quantity, that a customer usually needs between 2-3 packs of weaving hair. The standard for a full head requires minimum 2 packs.
2) When purchasing curly hair weave be aware of the fact that even though you may be purchasing 18" the hair will appear 16". The length on the package will indicate the length of the curly hair when stretched/straightened not when in curly state.
3) Most beauty supply stores or online store will not accept requests for refund on stylist fee that a customer has paid and is dissatisfied with the product. Make sure to inspect the style and quality of the hair you purchase before you weave it onto your head. It is highly recommended that you wash the purchased hair before application to ensure top satisfaction with the quality and product.
3) All you need to know about braids before purchasing:
- Braids Hair Care and Tips:
1) Deep condition your hair a day before applying the extensions. Continue to deep
condition your hair even when you have the braids in at least once in 2 weeks.
2) Use a conditioner that is rich in protein. Use an equal proportion of Shea butter and coconut oil as deep conditioner.
3) Wash your braids once in 2 weeks. This is very good for your hair as it allows
your hair to rest from the chemical contents in relaxers and other chemicals you've been using on your hair before the braids.
4) Use plenty of coconut oil. Coconut oil helps softens yet strengthen and promotes your hair growth.
5) Another great ingredient to have at hand during your braiding period is unrefined Shea Butter. This is the master of moisture and healthy groom.
Micro braids are miniature braids, tiny and delicate, that are most commonly worn by African American people. One can have only a few braids braided in or have his/her full head braided. How long does it take to put in micro braids? Depending on the quantity of micro braids it might take from several minutes to 6-8 hours (for full head).
There are numerous braiding varieties available on the market which help to achieve different styles and results. Here is a list of some of them:
Jumbo Braid- long hair braid, usually used for corn rows or micro braids.
Afro Marley Braid- long and twisted braid.
Dread lock braid- used to accomplish the dreadlocks look without having to dreadlock your own hair.
Disco Braid- curly hair braid.
Vitamin C braid- regular braiding hair infused with the aroma and benefits of Vitamin C.
Silky Yaky braid- braiding hair that is not as coarse as the Jumbo braid
Afrelle braid- soft braiding hair
Softext braid- similar to the Afrelle braid is very soft and long
Afro Kinky Bulk- soft synthetic or human hair braid preferred for twists.
Prolonged braiding style of your hair may sometime result in exhausted hair that easily breaks.
Here are some quick facts about Hair Growth:
1) Drink green tea:
Experts who believe in the hair health benefits of green tea point to the fact that certain compounds found in green tea cause the relaxation of blood vessels, helping overall cardiovascular activity through increased circulation. Of course increased circulation will naturally help nourish hair roots and scalp tissues.
2) Make sure you have a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Fruit and vegetables contain important antioxidants which can help protect the hair and promote faster hair growth.
3) Eat foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids.
Omega 3 fatty acids can be found in oily fish or fish oil supplements and have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and so can alleviate any inflammation in the scalp and as they help the blood flow more efficiently they also help to nourish the scalp.Hair is composed of a protein known as Keratin so not surprisingly, a diet lacking in protein can hinder hair health and growth. Many people are still unaware of the importance of getting enough Omega 3 fatty acids in their diet, a lack of which will show up in the health of your hair.
4) Do not wash excessively your hair.
Excessive washing of the hair, particularly with shampoos containing harsh chemicals can remove the natural oils in the scalp, so it is important to use a good quality shampoo and conditioner and avoid washing the hair every day if you can.
5) Eating adequate amount of protein prevents your hair from shedding.
Inadequate protein intake over a lengthy period can force hair into the resting phase with shedding a few months later. It is obvious then that sufficient portions of protein rich foods should form part of your daily diet. The best sources of dietary protein are lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, soy, nuts, grains and seeds. At least 15% of your daily calories should come from protein-rich foods.
6) Eat adequate amounts of useful carbohydrates.
Carbs are an essential source of energy and help in the growth of body tissues, including hair. They are an important source of the B vitamins that are vital to healthy hair. It is important that you concentrate on consuming non-refined carbs rather than the sugars and white flour that are so prevalent in many over-refined carb products. You should place an emphasis on consuming vegetables, fruits, whole grains, brown rice and potatoes. It is recommended that you obtain 55-60% of your daily calories from the carbohydrates found in these foods.
Consider adopting some of the following tips to boost your natural energy, and encourage the growth of new strands that are healthy, shiny and less prone to dryness or breakage.
