Celebrities have long been a source of inspiration for hairstyles for many women, particularly those with long, luscious locks. Hair extensions are more accessible and attainable than ever and can offer many options to alter the length, volume or even colour of your hair.

Adding extensions can pump up the volume of your hair and give it extra movement, making it look healthier and more vibrant. Extensions have become easier to attach and maintain with innovative new application methods. Salons have adopted numerous hair extension techniques to modernise and refresh tired hairstyles that can alter your entire look.

ULTRASONIC COLD FUSION TECHNIQUE

This method does not use heat, glue or clips. It helps preserve the quality of your natural hair and leaves minimal damage. The extension can be dyed to match your hair colour or give highlights for added depth. The ultrasonic cold fusion technique involves a gentle bonding to the hair follicle, which results in longer lasting extensions. Ultrasonic waves (rapid impulses) are used to attach the extension to the root. The natural keratin-bonds in the hair are loosened which enables the extension to be fused to your natural hair. The bonding is seamless, making the extension barely visible to the naked eye. This painless process offers long-term results, set to last for up to six months. The ultrasonic cold fusion method is particularly beneficial for those who have thin hair and want more volume and as a result, it has become increasingly popular.

AIR PRESSURE TECHNIQUE

The air pressure technique is effective and efficient, allowing up to 10 extensions to be attached to the hair in about one minute. Professionals estimate a full head of hair to be done in approximately 45 minutes (depending on length and thickness of the individual's hair). This is a speedy and economic method of applying hair extensions.

COPPER BELL TECHNIQUE

The copper bell process involves copper bells to attach and hold the extensions in place underneath the hair. As there is no heat, weight or stress applied to the area of the extension, the extensions are comfortable to wear and barley detectable. This method takes approximately one hour to add volume to fine hair, and around two hours to add length to a full head of hair. Maintenance for the copper bell method is usually required every four to six weeks, and lasts for approximately four months depending on each individual's rate of hair growth.

HOT FUSION TECHNIQUE

This is the most conventional method of applying hair extensions. It involves using heated glue to hold the extensions to the hair. A small adhesive strip is wrapped to the natural hair follicle and the extension, and is then compressed with a hot fusion gun. The heat makes the glue quite sticky so quickly bonds the hair follicles to the hair extension.

HAIRWEAVING

Hair weaving involves attaching hair extensions to the roots of the natural hair by horizontally weaving or braiding the extension through. This kind of extension grows out with the natural hair. This technique may be the most time consuming, but is extremely effective in adding extra thickness to thinner locks.

HELPFUL HINTS

Once the hair extensions have been attached, they will need to be maintained and cared for to keep them looking healthy:

Shampoo and condition your hair every three to four days. Your scalp's natural oils do not get passed on to the extensions, so a moisturising agent in your shampoo and conditioner is important. If not, the extensions will become brittle and break easily.

Brush out any knots before washing your hair or before you go to bed, as well as before swimming. Start at the bottom and work your way up slowly using a paddle brush.

Do not colour your own hair extensions at home.

To prevent tangling, run your fingers through the extensions before combing.

To avoid displacing the extensions, do not place the comb directly at the scalp.

Towel dry your hair by allowing the towel to absorb the water. Always refrain from drying using a scrubbing action.

Avoid products containing sulphur, such as anti-dandruff shampoos.

Have your extensions checked by your stylist every six to eight weeks to ensure they are secure and looking their best.

Always assure you have the best quality in real hair extensions. Virgin hair (hair that has not been coloured or processed) typically looks the best.

Hair extensions are a great way to boost your confidence and make you feel more feminine, easily covering damaged ends and giving hair fabulous shine. Because extensions are not permanent, they can be instantly removed or altered to your liking.

There are copious options for hair extension available so, with new techniques constantly evolving, it's essential to choose the right method for you.