In the marketplace you find two major types of hair used in hair extensions:
- Human Hair
- Synthetic Hair
Human Hair :
Human Hair Structure/The Cuticle :
Hair is made of different layers. The outer layer, called “cuticle”, is made up of overlapping layers of long cells aligned in the same direction on the surface of the hair.
The cuticle locks in essential moisture and protects the hair against outside elements.
A healthy cuticle is much more than just a protective layer. Much of the shine of hair is due to the cuticle. Light reflects from their glossy surfaces. This, together with the pigment in the cortex, gives the gives hair its nice appearance. Hair without cuticle appears dull and lifeless, it would dry out and becomes brittle.
Hair with its cuticle intact is referred to as remy hair. Hair with no cuticle or damaged cuticle is referred to as non remy hair.
Human Hair Extensions :
The human hair used in the hair extension industry comes in different qualities. The highest quality hair quality is remy hair (fine quality of hair with the cuticle in the same direction) the lowest quality hair is non-remy hair (no cuticle left on the hair) with a lot of variations in between.Beside remy or non-remy hair, human hair is structured by the origin of hair. Most hair for hair extensions comes from China, India, Indonesia, Brazil and Russia.
Chinese Hair
Chinese Hair is often used for human hair extensions. This hair is thicker than Indian, Indonesian or European hair and has a round cross-section. It is normally dark black. To prepare chinese hair for hair extensions it is normally treated and coloured. This hair is normally less expensive.Indian Hair
Indian Hair has a very similar basic structure as European hair. In general this hair type is of a very high quality. However, the method of collection is very essential. When different types of hair are mixed with cuticle aligned in different directions, then the hair quality gets diluted. Indian hair is relatively thin and has an oval cross-section.Collected in the right way with all the cuticle present and in the same direction this hair is one of the best hair types available for use in a human hair extension.
European Hair
European Hair does not necessarily come from Europe. It is a group name for different hair with almost similar structure. Indian hair, Latin American hair, European hair, the only exemptions are Chinese hair and African hair (their structure is very different). Typical European hair is relatively thin and has an oval cross-section.Most European hair comes from India. The available quantity of real European hair is minimal.
Taking Care of Hair Extensions :
Taking care of your hair extensions is very important to enjoy your extensions. Here are just a few tips that will help to keep your extensions in good condition.Washing
Keep your hair clean. Hair tangles when dirt and sweat build up. Wash your hair after exercise, swimming etc. Brush your hair and remove all tangles before washing it. Wash your hair going in a downward motion. Use a good quality shampoo, your stylist can advise you which product is best for your hair. When a lot of water is added at once to very dry hair, hair can swell up and tangle. Gradually wet the hair and brush gently before you completely wash it. This is more common with less expensive extensions.Styling
When brushing use a soft bristle brush, start at the ends of your hair and gently work your way up. Always brush in a downward motion and do not brush harshly. Brush your hair 2 or 3 times a day. Heat is your hair’s biggest enemy, the more you use the shorter your hair extension will last. Be careful with the use of hair dryers and curling irons. It is best to let your hair dry naturally.Exercise
Wear a cap when swimming or keep your hair out of the water. Chlorine and saly=t water can cause the hair to tangle and mat up. It is recommended to wear your hair up or in a ponytail when you swim or exercise.Sleeping
Never sleep on wet hair. Make sure your hair is completely dry before you go to bed. It is also recommended to wrap your hair together or gently tie it up to prevent tangling.Hair Care Products
Use a good (leave-in) conditioner to keep your hair soft. Don’t over do it. To much conditioner or any other hair care product can cause a build up and tangling. Avoid hair products that contain alcohol. Alcohol makes hair dry. Ask your stylist what would be the best products for your hair.Hair Treatments
Do not perm, colour or chemically process your own hair extensions. Let your stylist take care of that.Source : http://www.sensationalhair.co.uk/pages/hairtypes
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