How long should your hair be to be able to apply hair extensions?
Before installing natural hair extensions, many factors need to be taken into consideration, such as the quality and type of natural hair extensions you want to install, their length, density, color, and the essential features they will provide.
These considerations may also include factors related to you, like the type and length of your natural hair and its suitability for extension installation. In this article, we aim to answer all questions related to this topic and help you determine the ideal length for your extensions.
Criteria for Choosing the Right Natural Hair Extensions:
No matter the short hairstyle you've adopted, there's no need to worry if you want to enjoy a longer hair look, as natural hair extensions always offer solutions to various issues. However, choosing the best natural hair extensions depends on key factors such as hair color, length, thickness, and your purpose for wearing them. To determine the right natural hair extensions for you, consider the following:
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Length of Your Natural Hair:
One of the most common questions before getting natural hair extensions is, "How long should my hair be to install extensions?" The answer depends on the type of natural hair extensions you plan to wear.
Generally, the suitable hair length is at least 4 to 5 inches (about 10 to 12 cm). However, this is an approximate guideline, and the required length may vary depending on the type of extension. For example, if you want to use tape-in extensions, your hair should be at least 14 inches (about 35 cm) to hide the tape effectively.
Clip-in extensions require a hair length of at least 8 inches (about 20 cm). Beads extensions can work with hair as short as 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7 cm). For a precise assessment of your hair, it's best to consult a professional who can recommend the right type and length of extensions for you, ensuring a natural and seamless look.
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Type of Your Natural Hair:
Knowing your hair type is crucial before acquiring natural hair extensions. You should be aware of its thickness and texture. Coarse hair, for example, may not be suitable for certain extensions that rely on heat during installation or hand-tied wefts, as they can be heavy and potentially damage your hair. Instead, thin hair may benefit from lighter options like clip-in extensions, which are gentle on fine hair. Different types of natural hair extensions are available to suit various hair types.
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Quality of Natural Hair Extensions:
Determining the quality of natural hair extensions is essential. Remy human hair is considered one of the best-quality choices, as it allows you to dye and style it as you wish. High-quality extensions have a natural, tangle-free texture, making them an excellent choice for a seamless and natural look. To avoid scams and ensure quality, it's advisable to purchase from reputable sources, like Zen Hair.
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Duration of Wearing Natural Hair Extensions:
Deciding how long you plan to wear natural hair extensions is vital. If you only intend to wear them for a special occasion, such as a wedding or important event, temporary extensions like clip-ins are convenient, quick to apply, and eliminate the need for salon visits. However, for daily wear, consider permanent extensions like beaded or hand-tied wefts. By visiting Zen Hair, you can explore various options that align with your preferences.
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Cost of Natural Hair Extensions:
The cost of natural hair extensions is a significant factor to consider. While high-quality extensions may come at a higher price, Zen Hair strives to provide options that cater to various budgets, ensuring you can find extensions of great quality at reasonable prices.
Frequently Asked Questions about Natural Hair Extensions
Before getting natural hair extensions, many common questions may cross your mind, and we've gathered some of the most frequently asked questions along with their answers:
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How long can natural hair extensions last?
The answer depends on three factors:
- Your level of care.
- The hair care products you use.
- The type of natural hair extensions you choose.
- In general, high-quality natural hair extensions can last for a year or even longer.
Can natural hair extensions damage my real hair strands?
It depends on how you apply and care for your natural hair extensions. When properly installed and given the right care and maintenance, they should never damage your natural hair in any way.
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Can someone detect that I'm wearing natural hair extensions?
Detecting natural hair extensions while you're wearing them is almost impossible, especially if you choose the right color and have them installed professionally. Carefully selecting a color that matches your natural hair is essential for a seamless look.
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Is it okay to sleep with natural hair extensions?
Sleeping with temporary natural hair extensions is not advisable; make sure to remove them before bedtime to prevent tangling. If you wear permanent natural hair extensions, it's best to brush and gather your hair into a loose braid or ponytail before sleeping to avoid any potential tangling and damage.