Artificial hair integrations

However, hair loss can occur either along the front hairline or above the ears due to the wearing of specific hairstyles, such as weaves, for a prolonged period of time.

[1] Most human hair weaves come from Asian countries like Vietnam, India, and China.

In addition, the extensions need to be treated with specialized shampoos, conditioners and styling products to keep them in top condition.

This technique is commonly used and does not cause damage to the hair unless taken out without proper directions from a professional.

It is advised that weave bonding be installed for up to 3 weeks because the glue begins to loosen up and lessens the attractiveness of the hair.

Fusion method involves a machine similar to a hot glue gun used to attach human hair extensions to individual strands of one's natural hair of about 1/8 to 1/4 inch squared sections for a truly authentic look.

They need re-positioning every two to three months as the natural hair grows and the micro-beads move away from the scalp.

Netting provides more flexibility than track placement because the stylist is not limited to sewing extensions to a braid.

The most recent development in weave extensions is lace fronts, which are made from a nylon mesh material formed into a cap that is then hand-ventilated by knotting single strands of hair into the tiny openings of the cap, giving the hair a more natural and authentic continuity than typical extensions.

A lace frontal is best placed by a professional since more advanced weaving and hair extensions are used.

They do not last as long as human hair because they can be easily damaged by friction and heat.

[3] Futura is a polyester fiber developed by the Kaneka Corporation which can withstand heat up to 400 °F (200 °C; although the temperature recommended by the manufacturer is only 180 °C[4]), and can actually outlast human hair.

[citation needed] It is very similar to human hair given it is tangle-free and has a natural sheen.

[citation needed] It can be straightened or curled, however, it takes longer to set and futura cannot be colored.

The human hair shaft is made up of dead, hard protein, called keratin, in three layers.

The cuticle is formed by tightly packed scales in an overlapping structure similar to roof shingles.

There are pigment cells that are distributed throughout the cortex, giving the hair its characteristic color.

The cuticle is a hard shingle-like layer of overlapping cells, some five to twelve deep, formed from dead cells that form scales which give the hair shaft strength and protect the inner structure of the hair.

The hair cuticle is the first line of defense against all forms of damage; it acts as a protective barrier for the softer inner structures, including the medulla and cortex.

The selling of human hair for weaves, wigs, and other hair styling products is an industry that generates hundreds of millions of dollars annually and is growing as a large export economy in some Asian countries, such as India, at a rate of 10–30 percent annually.

1 usually denotes darkest black, and would become lighter with increasing number value, ending at the lightest blonde, then finally white.

Human hair colors: Come in an endless variety from platinum blonde to darkest natural black.

True raw blonde human hair is scarce and is highly sought after.

Textures of artificial hair vary from very straight to extremely curly, or kinky.

When the hair is braided at a high level of tension, the client is at risk for traction alopecia.

[9] The "invisible part" is a technique used by hair stylists that hides any evidence that the person is wearing an extension.

*Since human hair extensions are usually heavily processed to achieve uniform color and texture, a mild shampoo is recommended, along with a light conditioner to reduce tangling.

When shampooing it is suggested that a sulfate-free and alcohol-free product be used, since those contents cause frizz and dry out the hair.

Cool water is also recommended when shampooing, to reduce or prevent matting and excessive tangling.

Having to remove snarls and tangles loosens the foundation of the integrations and further damages the hair.

Final product of fully installed human hair weave extensions
hair extension
The glued netting process near completion
Section of a lace front used to close a weave (also called a lace or closure)
A packet of 10-inch premium hair
A young woman with multi-colored extensions braided into her hair