I did a thing! It’s been something I’ve been obsessed over since high school. Hair extensions have always fascinated me and I love trying new hair trends.
What has been holding me back from getting them wasn’t necessarily the money, because I believe if you truly want something bad enough, you’ll find a way to pay for it.
The reason I have waited so long to pull the trigger on getting hair extensions really boils down to trusting someone to put them in.
FINALLY, my hair salon in Birmingham has their own hair extension specialist and I’m so excited to share my experience with you. But first…
Why Do People Get Extensions?
There are so many reasons why women choose to get hair extensions. A lot of women struggle with hair growth and hair loss. I’ve had many reach out to me after seeing mine to say they are highly considering getting extensions because of postpartum changes, naturally thin hair, confidence, etc. Getting hair extensions is a great way to fill in, add length, and add volume to your already existing hair.
Clip-in Extensions vs. Hand Tied Beaded Extensions
I’ve had two different sets of clip in extensions and I always struggled putting them in on my own at home. If they aren’t put in correctly you can look totally whack and the last thing you want is for them to look unnatural. This can be especially hard if you have shorter hair with a blunt cut, like I do. I wanted more hair for my wedding a few years ago so I got color matched for clip-in Halo hair extensions. I really liked them, but like I said before they are hard to put in on your own so I didn’t really get my money’s worth. If you have a lot of events in a year like a wedding or just want a fun change from your norm, I think hair extensions are a great option for you!
Where to Get Beaded Hair Extensions in Birmingham, AL
There are some great hair salons in Birmingham, but my home is at Hairfolk. Many of my readers are a part of the Hairfolk family and I’m so glad because all the stylists there are super talented. Everyone deserves to have amazing hair!
Whitney Warner is the extension specialist at Hairfolk and she’ll be your best friend within 5 minutes! Good thing too, because if you decide to get extensions you’ll be spending a significant amount of time in her chair. Start by scheduling a consultation with her to discuss your overall hair goals and to get color matched. She did an excellent job matching my current hair color and worked with my colorist at the salon to make sure we were all on the same page for the long-term. We did a few blonder rows and a few darker rows. When blended together, they give my hair such depth!
Whitney Warner, Hair Extension Specialist in Birmingham, AL
Q & A: Hair Extensions
What kind do you have in. Are they tape-ins?
I have “hand tied” wefts, and beaded row extensions is the technique that was applied. You may also hear terminology like machine weft and hybrid weft (all different prices, each weft has a certain hair type it’s “best for” but it’s really up to your stylist/your budget as to what works best for you.
Are the comfortable?
They are now! You can expect to be sore a few days after install up to a week. Start taking Advil the day you get them in and for a few days after. You’re getting used to a lot of extra hair on your head, it takes time to adjust and feel normal. Sleeping can be a little uncomfortable for back sleepers, but after a week you should really not notice them.
How many sets/rows did you put in?
When I originally wrote this post (photos attached) I had 4 rows of hair. We used roughly a pack and 1/2 of hair. How much hair/how many rows depends on how long your hair is currently, how long you want your hair to be, etc.. You definitely need a consult to be sure on how much hair you need, but the more length you’re adding the more hair you need.
I now have just 2 rows of extensions and LOVE them so much more this way. 4 rows was very heavy and just a lot of hair to manage. Two feels and looks so much more natural in my opinion.
How long do hair extensions last?
The hair lasts anywhere from 9-12 months based on care. See care instructions below.
How long can you wear them?
Since your hair in constantly growing, you’ll need to go back in the salon every 6-8 weeks to get them moved up.
What hair extension lengths did you get?
All hair comes in 20” or 22” (based on which weft you choose) the length is cut to what works for you. I have 22″
Can you wash your hair with extensions? How often?
The best part about extensions is not having to wash your hair so much!! Extension hair stays curled a lot longer than your hair and really only needs a touch up every morning after you initially curl it. Throw some dry shampoo in it and roll. Wash it like normal, be careful to get out all the shampoo and conditioner, expect blow dries to take a bit longer.. but most of the time I’ll sleep on it damp and braid it to sleep.
How much are hair extensions?
Pricing is super individualized. But, hair ranges from $400-$500/pack. Install is $50/mini-row and $100/row. So for me personally, it was $600 for hair and $400 for install so right at $1000 total. Hair is a onetime purchase. Move ups every 6-8 weeks are around $100
Side note: this cost would have been lower if we initially had only put 2 rows in. Go for a consultation to decide what’s best for you!
Can you workout in them?
Yes. I like to wear a french braid or low pony tail.
Can you go swimming?
Professionals recommend not getting your hair in chlorine or sea water. It will just make your hair last longer if you don’t cause let’s be real.. chlorine is horrible for any hair. But if you must, throw some conditioner in to act as a barrier.
Does it make your hair less healthy?
Anything that you attach to your hair can cause damage. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your stylist is certified and knows what they’re doing. The beaded row technique is designed to be less damaging than other types of extensions (i.e tape-ins), but if you’re hoping to have luscious locks after 6 weeks you’ve got the wrong idea.
Let’s be honest.. our eyes play tricks on us a little. You’re used to having about 120g of extra hair and all the sudden when you get them taken out, you feel bald (you’re not. Btw) I find the longer you wear them the more pleased with your real hair after you take them out.
Final thoughts:
1. Your hair is longer
2. You’ve have to wash it less
3. You apply less heat because you can style less, and ultimately you can make significant improvements on health
NOTE: Your hair initially has to be blended with the extensions, which means if you take the hair out after six weeks you’re going to feel like your hair doesn’t look it’s best (aka you’re going to need a haircut) It’s a long term commitment to the hair health game, but worth it.
I hope that answered all of your questions. Feel free to leave a comment below, or message me on Instagram.
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