Hair Extensions 101

Fall seems to be all about the sleek bob and the messy pixie, but no one can deny the appeal and sexiness of long, luxurious locks – case and point, Sofia Vergara and any of the Victoria Secret Angels . The great news is that you do not have to be genetically blessed to get the look. Hair extensions are widely used by celebrities and in the beauty industry, and are a great way to change up your look without waiting years to achieve the length or volume. There are a variety of different types of hair extensions and methods available, and it is important to choose the kind that suits your hair wants and needs. We will outline the methods available and provide some quick tips on how to care for this beauty investment.

The Extension Methods

Tape/Euro Tape
The tape method is best for fine to medium hair types. It involves fast installation by attaching a hair extension track to a special double-sided tape. The stylist will then use your own hair to adhere the extensions together. The Euro Tape involves the same method, but it is completely virgin hair (never processed or dyed), so it is best suited to finer hair types or those wanting a natural blonde look.
The pros of having tape-in extensions is that the tape lays flat against your head, so no one will suspect you have them! Styling your hair is done with ease, and the extensions come in a wide variety of colors, including multitone and highlighted options.
This method involves no heat or braiding and the extensions are reusable, which is a great way to save you money!
Hair Cost: Tape – $400-500/100g Euro Tape- $1500-2000/100g
1-Year Investment with retouches every 2 months: $1700+

 
I-Tips
The hair type that is best suited to this method is thick hair. These extensions are applied by using a pulling tool, either a hook or loop, which pulls the client’s hair through a very small micro ring.
The I-Tip extension is then inserted into the micro ring which is then fastened together to hold the extension in place. The pros of having I-Tips is that very specific application can be achieved (strand by strand application), and it involves no heat, adhesive, or chemicals. One popular trend is using I-Tips to add peek-a-boo highlights in specific areas, which creates a funky and unique look. This method has fast and cost-effective touch-ups, and is the most natural feeling.
Hair Cost: $400-500/100g
1-Year Investment with retouches every 2 months: $1300+

EC Lustre Veil
This superior method is best suited for thicker hair. These incredible extensions are created in California and are only sold professionally. Whether you are craving length, trend, or density, the EC Lustre Veil extensions won’t disappoint! The EC Lustre Knot technique is used to install the 100% human hair and allow us to cut and color the same as natural hair. With proper care, they can last 6 – 9 months of full time use. The many pros of the Lustre Veil is that there is virtually no damage to your natural hair. The EC Lustre Extensions are low maintenance and long lasting.
Hair Cost: $400-500/100g
1-Year Investment with retouches every 2 months: $1300+

It is important to be pre-informed of the TLC you will need to devote to your hair extensions. Once you have your flowing locks, you will take care of them just as you should your natural hair: gently and kindly. It is a must that you:

• Avoid tugging or yanking at the extensions while brushing or styling
• Keep oils away from the roots when styling in order to prevent bonds or tape from slipping
• Make sure your hair is completely dry before brushing your extensions
• Sleep with your extensions in a long braid to avoid tangling and matting
• Stay up-to-date with your trimming appointments! This will help maintain blending of your extensions with your natural hair as well as help maintain the quality of your investment!

If extensions are something you crave and you want to know more, please call EvelineCharles at 780.424.5666 in Edmonton or 403.571.5666 in Calgary to book a consult with one of our incredible and talented EC Extensionists!