Many people crave the confidence and glamour that comes with beautiful hair, but achieving that perfect mane isn’t always easy. With keratin bonded hair extensions—the secret weapon of celebrities, influencers, and hair enthusiasts everywhere—you can add length, volume, or even pops of colour, to suit your desired look!
In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into the world of keratin bonded hair extensions to give you all the information you need to know: from understanding how they work, their pros and cons, and every how-to, we’ve got you covered.
What are keratin bond hair extensions?
Keratin bonded hair extensions might sound fancy, but let’s break it down. These extensions are small strands of hair—real or synthetic—that are fused with a keratin-based adhesive. This adhesive is heated up and it becomes soft and malleable, allowing your stylist to mould it around small sections of your natural hair. As it cools, it hardens and forms a secure bond, keeping the extensions firmly in place.
But here’s the cool part: because keratin is a protein that’s naturally found in your hair, the bonds created by the adhesive blend seamlessly with your strands. Plus, they’re heat-friendly, meaning you can style them just like your own hair without worrying about damage.
So, in a nutshell, what makes keratin bonded hair extensions different is the use of heat and keratin to attach extensions to your natural hair, giving you longer, fuller locks with a long-lasting bond, seamless blend, and endless styling possibilities.
Pros and cons of keratin bond hair extensions: is it right for you?
Pros
One of the biggest perks of keratin bonded hair extensions is that they blend seamlessly with your natural hair. The bonds are virtually invisible, giving you a natural-looking finish that’s hard to beat. Also, they can be styled just like your natural hair as you don’t have to worry much about heat damage so long as you’re using a lighter heat setting.
Unlike clip-in extensions that you have to take out every night, keratin bonded hair extensions form a more semi-permanent attachment to your natural hair. Once applied, these bonds can last for several weeks with proper care.
Cons
Getting keratin bonded hair extensions applied can be a time-consuming process. Depending on the amount of hair you’re getting done, it can take several hours in the salon chair.
They tend to be more expensive than other types of extensions. Plus, you’ll need to factor in the cost of maintenance appointments every few weeks to keep them looking their best. While keratin bonded hair extensions are low-maintenance once they’re in, they do require some extra care to keep them looking great. You’ll need to use sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners, avoid excessive heat styling, and be gentle when brushing to prevent damage to the bonds.
Improper application or removal of keratin bonded hair extensions can cause damage to your natural hair. It’s essential to choose a reputable stylist who knows what they’re doing and to follow their aftercare instructions to a tee.
Getting keratin bond hair extensions applied
The time it takes to put in keratin bonded hair extensions can vary depending on factors like the amount of hair being applied and the skill level of the stylist. On average, you can expect the application process to take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. However, for a full head of extensions, it might take longer, potentially up to 6 hours.
It all starts with a consultation with your stylist. During this time, you’ll discuss your desired look, the length and volume you’re aiming for, and any questions or concerns you may have.
Before applying the extensions, your stylist will prepare your hair by washing and drying it thoroughly. This helps remove any product buildup and ensures a clean surface for the bonds to adhere to.
Once you’re ready to get started, your stylist will begin by sectioning off your hair. This helps ensure that the extensions are applied evenly and blend seamlessly with your natural hair.
Now comes the fun part—attaching the extensions! There are different application methods you might encounter.
Fusion Method: This is the most common technique for applying keratin bonded hair extensions. It involves using a heat tool to melt the keratin adhesive and bond the extensions to small sections of your natural hair. The bonds are then rolled between the fingers to ensure a secure attachment.
Cold Fusion or Microbead Method: As the name suggests, this method does not require heat or glue to attach the extensions. Instead, the extension is slipped into a copper cylinder and compressed onto the hair close to the scalp, then clamped shut to hold the extensions in place. This method is often preferred for fine or damaged hair that can’t withstand heat.
To know which method suits you best, consider your hair type, lifestyle (how much time you’re willing to dedicate to maintenance), desired look, and ultimately, your budget.
Using the method chosen by you or your stylist, the latter will carefully attach small sections of the extensions to your natural hair, working their way around your head until all the extensions are in place.
Once the extensions are attached, your stylist will blend them with your natural hair to create a seamless look. This may involve trimming the extensions to match the length of your hair or adding layers for a more natural finish.
With the extensions in place, any final adjustments are done. Then, it’s time to style your new ‘do!
Styling your hair with keratin bonded hair extensions goes the same way you would with your all-natural hair. Ensure first and foremost that they are clean, dry, and free from tangles. Then, apply a heat protectant spray or serum to your extensions before using hot styling tools. Remember to be gentle when styling your extensions and avoid pulling or tugging on the bonds to prevent damage.
How to take care of keratin bond hair extensions
You do not want the money and time you spent on your extensions to not be worth it. So, be consistent in your daily maintenance routine and keep your keratin bonded hair extensions in tip-top shape. Here are some tips and tricks to help you care for your extensions:
- Use a special extension brush, a wide-tooth comb, or a soft-bristle brush to gently detangle your hair, starting from the bottom and working your way up to the roots. Avoid brushing too aggressively, as this can strain the bonds and cause damage to your natural hair.
- Wash your hair with sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping the natural oils from your hair and extensions. Be sure to wash your hair in a downward motion and avoid rubbing or scrubbing the bonds, as this can cause them to weaken over time. Note: The adhesive isn’t completely bonded to your hair until about 48 hours. Do not wash your hair or get it wet until then.
- Choose hair care products specifically formulated for extensions, as they’re designed to be gentle on the bonds and help prolong the life of your extensions. Avoid products containing alcohol.
- It’s generally recommended to schedule maintenance appointments with your stylist every 6 to 8 weeks. Over time, your natural hair will continue to grow, causing the bonds of your extensions to move further away from the roots. Your stylist will refresh the bonds by removing and reapplying them closer to the scalp. If any extensions become damaged or worn out, they may need to be replaced during your maintenance appointment.
Removing keratin bond hair extensions
It’s time to bid farewell to your keratin bonded hair extensions when:
There’s visible regrowth. As your natural hair grows, the bonds of your extensions will gradually move further away from the scalp.
You find yourself spending more time detangling your hair or your extensions feel constantly knotted.
There’s discomfort or irritation. This happens when they’re too tight or if the bonds are pulling on your natural hair.
How to remove keratin bonded hair extensions:
Your stylist will start by applying a specially formulated bond remover to the bonds of your extensions. This solution helps break down the keratin adhesive, making it easier to slide the extensions out of your hair.
Once the bond remover has had a chance to work its magic, your stylist will gently break the bonds using a removal tool or their fingers. They’ll carefully work their way around your head, loosening each bond until the extensions are free from your natural hair.
With the extensions removed, your stylist will detangle your natural hair and cleanse it to remove any residue from the bond remover.
While your extensions are out, your stylist will take the opportunity to assess the health of your natural hair. They’ll check for any signs of damage or breakage and provide recommendations for maintaining healthy hair moving forward.
If you’re planning to reapply your extensions, now’s the time to schedule a maintenance appointment with your stylist. They’ll help you choose the best method for reapplication and ensure your extensions are applied safely and securely.
Post-removal hair care tips
After removing your keratin bond hair extensions, it’s essential to give your natural hair some extra TLC. Here are some post-removal hair care tips to help your locks bounce back:
- Treat your hair to a luxurious deep conditioning treatment to replenish moisture and nourish your strands. Look for a hydrating mask or conditioner enriched with ingredients like keratin, argan oil, or shea butter to help repair any damage caused by the extensions.
- Schedule a trim with your stylist to get rid of any split ends or damaged hair. This will help keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant and promote new growth.
- Give your hair a break from heat-styling tools like flat irons and curling wands to prevent further damage. If you must use heat, be sure to apply a heat protectant spray or serum beforehand and use the lowest possible heat setting.
- Be mindful of the products you use on your hair and avoid harsh chemicals like sulphates and alcohol, which can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and damage.
- Fuel your body with a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids to promote healthy hair growth from the inside out. Incorporate foods like salmon, avocado, nuts, and leafy greens into your meals for optimal hair health.
Now that you’re equipped with these post-removal care tips, let’s wrap up our guide to keratin bonded hair extensions with some final thoughts and recommendations.
Wrapping up your journey to perfect hair with keratin bond hair extensions
From understanding how these extensions work and exploring their pros and cons to learning about application methods, styling techniques, and proper maintenance, we’ve provided you with comprehensive insights to help you make informed decisions. We’ve discussed the importance of taking care of your extensions, knowing when it’s time for removal, and addressing common concerns and misconceptions.
Armed with this knowledge, you’re now ready to confidently rock your keratin bonded hair extensions and enjoy the beautiful, transformative power they bring to your hair. Take the plunge and experience the magic of keratin bond hair extensions yourself for $17 to $24 per strand at Christopher Hanna!
You may be a seasoned extension wearer or new to the game. Either way, we hope this guide has been informative and helpful on your journey to perfect hair.
Frequently asked questions about keratin bond hair extensions
How long do keratin bond hair extensions last?
It typically depends on how well you care for them and how fast your natural hair grows. Generally, you can expect keratin bonded hair extensions to last anywhere from 2 to 4 months before they need to be removed and reapplied. Regular maintenance appointments every 4 to 6 weeks can help prolong the lifespan of your extensions and keep them looking their best.
Can you dye and bleach keratin bond hair extensions?
If your extensions are made from 100% human hair, you can achieve better results when dyeing it. But when bleaching them, you might end up destroying them and their attachment. It would be best to consult your stylist for that.
Can you reuse keratin bond hair extensions?
Yes, keratin bond hair extensions can often be reused, depending on their condition and how well they were maintained during their previous wear.
Can I swim and exercise with keratin bond hair extensions?
Yes, you can swim and exercise with keratin bond hair extensions, but it’s essential to take precautions to protect them from chlorine, saltwater, and sweat. Wear a swim cap while swimming and rinse your hair with fresh water after swimming or exercising.