So, you want those summer highlights but you can’t afford fusion extensions. What do you do??!!!

Clip-in extensions are always going to be “the next best thing” when it comes to highlights when compared to bleaching or fusion. They are the cheapest and fastest way to give yourself a mini-makeover. Simply part your hair and clip on the extension! That’s it!

Making your own clip-in extensions is also as easy as 1, 2, 3! Here are the steps to making a new you in less than 30 minutes.

Step #1: Using a bundle of weaving hair, cut the weft in lengths you will need to create your clip-ins. You can make them as short as 1″ or long enough to go from ear to ear just below your crown.

Step #2: Using the 2 holes at the end of each comb pin, sew the comb pins to the wefts using a needle and thread (be sure the thread matches the color of the hair!) . For longer wefts be sure to add more than just 2 comb pins on the each end. There should be at least one comb pin every 3″-4″ of weft length.

Step #3: CLIP THEM IN!! Move them around until you have found the perfect location for your extensions.

Clip-in extensions are available in solid colors however there are several 2-color blends as well. This is a good way to add more “depth” to your highlights with the clip of a pin.

Theme parties are not only a great way to have a laugh with your closest friends but is also becoming a great way to increase morale in the work-place. The host or planner generally sets the “theme” of the party and rest is up to you. Here are a few popular themes:

Hawaiian Shirt Day – just about every company we have worked for has had some form of this theme day. So, what do you wear? Depending on your work environment, we would suggest a hawaiian shirt, bermuda shorts, thongs and a rasta wig.

Time Themes – one of the most popular themes is a time theme. This is when you have to dress up to look like you belong to a specific time. Whether it be colonial, the 20′s, the 40′s, the 50′s, the 60′s or the 70′s, there are plenty of costume and wig options to choose from.

Disco Themes – not only is this one of the most popular but is almost one of the easiest themes. Bell bottoms, platforms and an afro is all you need for this theme.

Movie Themes – are you a fan of a great movie? Whether it is new or old, you can always throw a theme party and have your party-goers dress up like their favorite character.

No matter what the theme, if you go all out and dress the part, the more fun and laughs everyone will have.

So, you are looking to find a great wig but are torn between choosing human hair or synthetic fiber. Which one is better? Well, here is the low-down on your options:

Human Hair Wigs – Human hair wigs tend to be more expensive, obviously, however they do have their benefits. PROS: You can wash them, use heated appliances, and dye or bleach them as you would your natural hair. In addition, they tend to look more natural, especially in the sun because the hair tends to reflect light the same as your natural hair. Human hair wigs also tend to last longer, depending on the quality of the hair. CONS: If the quality of hair is not good, the hair tends to mat and tangle.

Synthetic Wigs- PROS: Synthetic wigs are cheaper than human hair wigs and are great for styled looks. The synthetic fiber tends to hold curls and styles much better than human hair which make them rather low maintenance. Synthetic wigs can always be reset (with rollers) to create a new look or add new life to a worn wig. CONS: Synthetic wigs tend to look very shiny and un-natural when first bought. Luckily, the shine fades to a more natural look after a couple of days of wear. Also, they cannot be color treated nor do they tolerate heated appliances.

Human Hair Blends- Human hair blended wigs are the perfect answer all across the board. PROS: Human hair blended wigs are generally blended with a high-heat (Futura) fiber which means that it can handle heat up to 300 degrees! This will allow you to flat iron, curl, and blow-dry these wigs and they are much less pricey than 100% human hair wigs. CONS: None other than the fact that they cannot be color treated.

Natural textured hair is making a huge comeback. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial (with images) on how to get this beautiful “big hair” look whether your hair is short, permed straight or thin.

1. The first thing you need to do is braid your tracks. These are generally cornrows starting at the front of the hairline going to the nape of the neck. Be sure to use the kinky bulk hair to braid your tracks so when you let the ends loose, they will match your interlock.

2. Using an “open” latch hook, go under the track until the entire tip of the hook is exposed. Fold the interlock hair in half and place the bend of the hair into the hook.

3. Pull the hair through the track about 2″ so the loop is fully exposed.

4. Remove the latch hook and open the loop. Pick up the 2 ends of hair on the other side of the track.

5. Place the two ends through the loop. Pull the ends to make sure the loop is tight.

6. Make sure all of the knots are neat and lined up. For fuller styles, be sure the tracks are completely covered. If you prefer something a bit thinner, you can space out the knots so they aren’t so close together.

Once your style is complete, make any necessary adjustments to the length. If you would like it shorter, use a shaving razor to shorten it. This will keep the ends tapered instead of bluntly cut and will result in a more natural look. Section the hair and starting at the base closest to the tracks, gently pull the sections to remove any loose strands of hair that were not knotted. This will also help tighten any loose knots.

So, it seems, after so much time has passed, the same styles are making a come-back, however the new afro has a new twist!

More and more, we are seeing natural ethnic hair textures being worn by many models in magazines and on T.V. We are seeing natural hair styles on commercials and in the stores when we buy our children ethnic dolls. It seems that everywhere we turn, it is becoming  “the  norm” to see African American women wear their own natural textures. Whether they have tightly coiled locks or large spirals, “natural” is indeed the new texture.

The new afro has a brand new twist because often times, the hair is twisted to set these amazing spirals. Using a setting lotion or spray (or any type of product that will help to set, define and hold your style), simply set your spirals by using an individual two-strand twist method or by doing flat two-strand twists (these look similar to two-strand cornrows). After your hair has completely dried, remove the strands and separate your curls with your fingers. If you prefer a neat, curly afro, do not separate the curls too much and apply an oil or sheen to keep the ends from frizzing. If you want to go all out and “big” is your goal, separate your curls and squirt a few sprays of water mist (hold the bottle as far from your hair as possible to prevent too much shrinkage).

If you wish to add length or volume to your locks, you can always add a kinky extension to help you achieve this look as well. There are a few afro textured products such as afro bulk hair or an afro braid that will allow you to braid or interlock in your afro.

When you need a bit more than just colorful eyelashes, metallic eyelashes are a wonderful solution.

Metallic lashes are not for those who fear the spotlight because these lashes are sure to shine. They are perfect for costumes, team spirit, school spirit  or for those who enjoy dressing up just for the sake of it all!

If you love braids and are unsure how to style them on your wedding day, let us help.

A woman’s wedding day is, by far, one of the most important days of her life and her hair has got to be perfect! If the bride-to-be is wearing braids, no worries, because there are plenty of braided hairstyles out there.

First, determine if she will be wearing any head wear. If so, be sure to consider this before choosing a style. Whether up or down, be sure the braids look fresh, especially around the hairline. Get feedback from the bride-to-be (or have her bring an image) to be sure you are capturing her idea correctly.

For updos, try adding crystals or pearls throughout to create an elegant look. Curl the braids, if necessary to create a style she will love.

Quick weaves are one of the fastest and most popular ways to do a weave install however what about wigs? Wigs can absolutely be used for quick weaves as well!! In just a few quick steps, your style can be prepared and installed.

1. Find a wig that you love. There are no limitations when it comes to finding your perfect wig. Whether it be short, long, human hair, synthetic, blonde, brunette, full or 3/4, whatever you love, it will work!

2. Braid a single track around the perimeter of your head. If you have more hair or prefer to braid your entire head, continue the track and spiral it around your head in a “bee hive” pattern. Tack down the end of the braid. Based on your personal preference, you can choose to wear a wig cap or not.

3. Using a needle and thread, sew down the perimeter of the wig to the tracks. For added security, you can sew down the entire wig, not just the edges.

If your perfect wig is a 3/4 wig, simply move the track back to be behind the hair you plan to leave out in the front.

When most think of lash extensions, they picture huge, unrealistic looking lashes that are often worn by showgirls, however there is indeed a way to obtain a more natural look with lash extensions.

Before you dismiss the idea entirely, lash extensions do not always have to look like branches hanging from your eye lids. Whether you are doing them yourself or having them applied by a professional, getting your lash extensions to look 100%  natural is something more and more people are aiming to get.

Here are a few tips to getting natural looking lash extensions:

1. Try getting individual lash extensions instead of an entire set. Individuals will always look for more natural.

2. Individuals are available in different sizes. Try the “short” lashes as they tend to look far more natural than the longer lengths.

3. Do not add too many lashes. This will make your lashes appear too full and un-natural.

4. Do not add lashes all of the way to the inner part of your eye. It will look more natural if you only add the lashes to 3/4 of your lid, starting from the outer side of your eye.

5. If your individual lashes have a tiny ball at the base, be sure to apply it as close to the base of your lashes so it cannot be seen. When applied properly, even when viewed close-up, you should not be able to see anything.

6. Do not apply too much glue. This will make the glue/bond more visible. Even if you use a black glue, it will look like clumped mascara. Too much clear glue may turn white and look like you have “sleep” in your lashes. No bueno!!

7. If you have dark lashes, try to use a black adhesive.

8. For a more natural look, do not apply lash extensions to your bottom lashes.

9. When the lashes are being applied, make extra effort to have all the lashes going in the same direction. This is a difficult process however it will keep your lashes looking neat and not “tangled” looking.

10. If you have really curly lashes, you may need to add the lash extensions to the under side of your lashes. Trying to apply the lash extensions to the top of curly lashes may prove to be very difficult and result in lashes that are not completely adhered.

It’s that time of year again,…PROM TIME!! If you want to look great while saving money, we have some styling tips for you.No matter if you plan to wear your hair up or down for your prom, we have a few tips to help you look your best!

UP DO’S
If you plan to wear your hair up, hairpiece ponytails are the answer. Not only are they versatile but they are very cheap! They come in several attachment methods (drawstring, jaw-clip, banana clip, etc.) however the best part is they are available in several different colors, lengths and textures.

If you plan to get a piece with highlights, be sure the base color matches your natural hair color. You can also wear the piece as is or you can customize your look by tacking up the curls to form a look that you have just stepped out of the salon and onto the red carpet!

DOWN DO’S
If you are planning to wear your hair down, you will have to decide if you are going to wear it straight or curly. If you want to add more length to your hair, human hair clip-in extensions are absolutely perfect! The can be used to add length, highlights, low-lights or volume to your own hair. Again, yet another way to have you looking like you just stepped out of a salon and onto the red carpet.

Buns are a great way to style your hair during the hot summer months. We have found some quick tips to help you get your “summer buns” off to a perfect start!

If you have naturally long hair, a summer bun might be fairly easy to do but for those with shorter or thinner hair who would like to beef up their bun size, hairpieces and extensions are the way to go.

1. Hairpieces- find a hairpiece in your color (or slightly lighter). For a bulkier bun, something with curls or waves might work best. Place your own hair in a bun (or a loose bun for a “messy bun”). Add the hairpiece to your bun and ensure it is properly attached. Using a rubber band or hair-clip, pin up the bun.

2. Extensions- If you have short or thin hair, clip-in extensions are a perfect solution. Get your extensions lighter, darker or in bright colors and clip them in. Put your hair in a ponytail (or a loose ponytail for a “messy bun”). Using a rubber band or hair-clip, pin up your bun.

To achieve the style pictured above, simply wrap the ends of the hair around the ponytail holder and secure the ends. For a smaller bun, wrap the hair tighter and for a bigger bun, wrap the hair loosely.

For those who wear wigs, one frequently asked questions is ‘How do I curl or reset the curls on my synthetic wig?’. We’ve found answers! Synthetic wigs are generally made with a plastic-like fiber that melts if it comes into contact with too much heat however it takes heat to set the curls.

 If you have electric hot rollers (that are coated in velvet), these should work perfectly on your wig. The heat is not too hot to melt the hair yet enough to gently set a curl. Comb each section of hair and ensure the ends are neat before rolling the hair. Let the wig set until the rollers have completely cooled and remove the rollers.

 If you do not have electric rollers, hot water will also work. Place you wig on a wig stand. Comb each section of hair and be sure the ends are neat before rolling the hair with snap-on rollers. Once all the hair has been rolled, take freshly boiled water and pour over each roller THOROUGHLY and generously. Once done, allow the wig to completely dry before removing the rollers. Please note that the hot water will tightly set the curl, unlike the electric rollers. Be sure to use larger sections for larger curls.

The hair strands are injected into pure Chinese silk, which is placed just at the crown of a lace wig. Since the hairs are injected and not knotted or tied, the result is a more natural, knot-free unit.

Silk frontals are perfect for those who prefer wearing a part in their unit. With the finer laces, it was virtually impossible to part your hair without seeing your hair underneath or the knots through the lace.

Thin skin was thought to be a great alternative because no knots were visible however it was very difficult to blend at the hairline and most importantly, thin skin is NOT breathable. Silk lace is proving to be the best of both worlds with a minimal additional charge.

Is there really a such thing as a custom synthetic lace wig out there? Well, sure there is because we found them!!

A custom synthetic lace wig is exactly like customizing a human hair lace wig. You can choose the hair length, texture, color, density….sounds standard, right? Well, what about choosing your customized base design and size? It is full lace and 100% hand-tied, not just a lace-front like all of the other stores offer.

Please contact www.ExceptionalHair.com for additional product information.

When it comes to setting some of the most amazing spirals, two-strand twist outs are the most popular option for ethnic textures. Flat twist outs are just another method of creating and setting these spirals. Whether you do individual twists or flat twists, we can all agree that both work perfectly however it boils down to a matter of person preference when choosing from the two.

When doing flat twists, there are a few things to know:

1. Always begin your twists in an area where you desire more stretch or length. If you want more length at the crown, you will need to part the hair at the crown and start twisting at the part. If you desire more length in the front, simply start the twists at the front hairline.

2. Be sure to use a product that will help set the curl. Whether you choose water from a spray bottle, leave-in conditioner, cream or a setting lotion or gel, it is recommended that you use something to dampen the hair as this will help set the spiral and minimize a frizzy result.

3. If your hair is natural and coarse, you may need a holding gel to keep the spirals neat after the twists are removed.

4. Use something to roll the ends (i.e. a roller, barette, etc.) when finished with each twist. This not only helps to keep the twist from unraveling, it also helps to set a natural spiral at the ends.

5. If you want to add extra length to your spirals, stretch out the end of the twists and tack them up instead of allowing them to dry and shrink naturally. This will allow the hair to dry and set a more “elongated” spiral.

6. If you plan to stretch the hair, be sure you are not using any products that contain glycerin. This will cause the hair to return to it’s natural texture and curl length once the twists are removed.

7. If you desire a more synchronized curl and have no desire to stretch the hair out, you may consider using a product with glycerin instead of a setting lotion/gel.

8. Use extra care when removing the twists. The more the hair is manipulated, the more the spirals will separate and the bigger and frizzier the hair will become.

9. For added volume, gently separate the curls, one by one, until the desired fullness is achieved.

10. Do NOT comb or brush the hair once the twists have been removed. This will remove the beautiful spirals you just created.

We’ve heard it a million times yet many of us are still wondering why this hair is so popular. Well, we’ve got the scoop.

100% Premium Remy Human Hair is the highest quality of hair on the market. Remy hair (aka Cuticle hair) simply means the cuticles of the hair strands are still intact and all going in the same direction.

Cuticles are on each individual hair strand and are like shingles on a roof. If the hair is improperly handled and the “shingles” are not all facing in the same direction, the hair begins to tangle and mat excessively.

In order to prevent this problem, many factories will treat the hair to remove all of the cuticles. This strips the hair and significantly increases breakage. The hair is then colored/bleached and texturized which further damages the hair.

100% Premium Remy human hair is usually gently processed with color and/or texture so most, if not all, of the cuticles remain intact and keep the hair strands strong. This is why Remy hair can be used multiple times before discarding, unlike regular human hair products.

If you have trouble with your hair texture and humidity, you might consider thinking twice before purchasing wigs or extensions with too much texture as well.

When shopping for extensions or wigs, most look for styling versatility. This means that they look for something that can be worn in more than one style(i.e. can be worn straight as well as curly). In order to reduce styling time, many opt to purchase something that is curly believing that they can flat iron the hair and when it’s wet, it will go back to it’s natural curly state, as opposed to having to curl something that is naturally straight. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

Wigs and extensions that are curly, can indeed be styled using a “wet and go” method however when it comes to straightening the hair, this is when the problems begin. Most of the time, the tool used the straighten the hair is not going to completely straighten it. A ceramic flat iron needs to be used to ensure the hair is completely straight. Secondly, if you live in a high humidity area, odds are, your newly straightened locks are going to be short lived. Instead of the hair naturally curling back, it will began to frizz uncontrollably, definitely not the synchronized curl pattern you started with. The hair will then need to be wet to get the curls to stick together and still, the curls will not be as “nice” as they were before.

To prevent this from happening, a straight wig or extensions that you can curl would be a better choice. The curls might eventually fall out however this is better than the first option of having big, frizzy hair.

Fusion is one of the many extension techniques that many professional stylists might not recommend due to hair damage. Most fusion applications require the use of heat and adhesives which alone tend to increase breakage and damage however when such small sections are being used to apply the extensions, this increases damage.

It is normal to lose up to 100 strands of hair per day so when you use very small sections of hair, it is common to lose tips. As your hair naturally sheds, this minimizes the “foundation” that the tip has been applied to. Daily styling then causes the remaining hair strands to be pulled out or broken off.

Another major cause is the glue. No matter how well you saturate the glue with removers, some glues will still leave a large amount of sticky residue. The only way to remove the glue is to use a very fine tooth comb to comb out the glue. Again, this process causes an extensive amount of hair breakage.

Here are some tips that will significantly reduce breakage associated with mot fusion techniques:

Tip #1: avoid using heat and glue applications.

Tip #2: avoid using small or micro Fusion Tubes. Try using the large Fusion Tubes so larger hair sections can be used thus creating a more solid “foundation”.

Tip #3: try using Silicon Tubes as they have a soft silicon insert which help cushion the hair strands and prevent breakage

Tip #4: do not wear your fusion extensions too long. Twisting of the strands will occur and coupled with your natural shedding, can cause more tangling during removal.

Here are a few pointers to keep your bangs looking their finest:

Long bangs: Blow them dry with a big round boar-bristle brush. On damp hair, brush hair from side to side to smooth out any cowlicks. Make sure to get right at the roots to control any wave. When dry, run a flatiron over them if you want a straighter look. Then use hairspray if hair is fine and limp or serum if hair is dry and coarse.

Short bangs: Use your fingers to push hair into shape and air-dry or blow-dry in downward direction so they don’t stick straight up. Use wax for finish and texture definition.

Fringe: Use a flat brush and dry with a side-to-side motion. Piece out the strands with a good pomade.

Side Swept: Blow forward at first with a round brush lifting at the hairline to give volume so bangs aren’t stuck to the forehead. A big curling iron can also give a nice bend to the side. Finish with hairspray for hold.

When it comes to maintenance, if you have cowlicks, straight heavy bangs may not be for you. Instead, angled or side swept bangs work best. Another thing to keep in mind, curly hair can be a disaster to have successful smooth bangs. However, a long curly bang can be super sexy!

There is a much simpler way of adding more color to your hair style without processing it. Clip-in lowlights to the rescue!!

Lowlights are when you use a coordinating darker shade to add to your lighter hair. Clip-in lowlights are the perfect way to add more color without having to process or damage your own hair. Even better, they can be added or removed with a simple clip of the attachment comb.

Clip-in lowlights are available in synthetic bright and neon colors as well as human hair and 100% Premium RemyHuman Hair. No matter what your budget is, clip-in lowlights are available in a range of lengths and prices.

Of all the wig colors, red just might be the most popular and most versatile. Whether it be natural red, auburn red, henna red or bright red, red wigs are definitely a HOT option.

Red wigs are not only perfect for holidays such as New Years, Valentine’s, July 4th, Halloween and Christmas however they are also perfect for “dress up”. No matter if you are dressing up for a sexy night with your significant other or for a night out on the town, red wigs can me matched with just about any style, outfit and personality!!

With all of the online wig stores on the net, many who are new to wigs are wondering how to go about ordering a wig. We’ve found help!

Step #1: Find out your size – using a measuring tape, measure the distance around your head. Hold the tape measure to the middle point on your forehead at the hairline. Follow your hairline over the top of your ear, around the base of your neck, over your other ear, until you end where you started. Note the measurement. Note: Most wigs are available in an “average” size and have a stretch cap that can be adjusted smaller or larger. Also, custom wigs will require additional measurements.

Step #2: Start Shopping!! – Compare the prices, styles and materials of different wigs. Consider synthetic hair wigs for their price and ease of use. Look at human hair wigs for their styling possibilities and texture. Expect to pay more for a top of the line human hair wig that you can curl and perm.

Step #3: Order Your Wig! – Once you find the perfect wig, place your order. If you have any additional questions before ordering, be sure to contact the company or see if they can place the order for you.

If you are in the search for the perfect bangs for your face shape, we have exactly what you have been looking for.

There are certain women who just look amazing with bangs. Their “forehead fringe” flatters their face perfectly, making their eyes pop while giving them a youthful, vibrant and sexy look,….then there are the rest of us.

Maybe you’ve tried bangs in the past, only to end up looking like your elementary school picture or maybe you are in the frustrating process of growing them out because they never quite looked like that celebrity photo you brought with you to the salon.

Rest assured, most of us have experienced bangs at some point in our lives with less than desirable results, and yet they continue to surface on runways, red carpets and tabloid covers, which actually makes it even more difficult to put the idea to rest. A perfect example is this season’s heavy bang that taps the lashes. It’s the hottest look right now. Though beautiful, they’re not very practical because you can barely see out from underneath. Not to mention, a little high-maintenance since they need to be trimmed every week to keep the perfect length, however, there are a number of other bang styles to choose from, luckily.

But how do you know which one is right for you? Start by looking at the shape of your face:

Long face: Bangs diminish the length of a long face. Typically a long face has a high forehead and when bangs cover it, the face is shortened with an illusion of more width to the face. Longer bangs are best. They can be blunt for a stronger, trendier look or edges can be softened and unforced.

Oval face: An oval face can wear a bang that’s angled and shorter. A razored bang is the most feminine because it has flow and texture. Oval is considered the perfect face to wear all styles of bangs, which is why heavy bangs that curve down on the sides are perfect. You can also wear them super short and right to the hairline for an edgier style!

Round face: Bangs that are a little shorter in the middle give length to a round face making it appear more oval. Bangs can be airy and wispy so they show more forehead, which will also add length. An asymmetric bang is great too because it diverts the eye.

Heart face: A blunt bang, cut straight across just below the eyebrows will cover the forehead and soften a pointed chin. Because the forehead can be a bit wide on this face shape, a side swept bang is ideal. Heart-shape faces also look great with choppy bangs that are long enough to push to one side for versatility.

Square face: This is the perfect face for a long, wispy, angled bang because it cuts the square dimension so the eye travels on a diagonal rather than horizontal. The shape of the face is flattered this way because it gives length to the face. A blunt bang would square off the face even more.

A 3/4 wig is a wig that only covers the top and the back of your head, allowing you to wear the front portion of your own hair out. They allow you to create a natural look by using your own side or center part, bangs or you can simply comb your hair back to show off your own, natural hairline.

3/4 wigs are also often referred to as “Falls” however they are the same product.

There are so many products on the market to help you grow or darken your lashes but spending $100+ might not be an option for most. Lash extensions are another option however having them professionally done can be costly too. So, why not learn how to achieve this look at home? Here’s how,…

Here is what you will need:

* Individual lashes
* Lash adhesive
* Tweezers (preferably lash tweezers)
* Safety Pin

1. Be sure your lashes are clean and dry. Lashes that have oil or make-up residue will be difficult to adhere with the lashes.

2. Loosen the lid to your lash adhesive but do not leave the lid off or it will dry out!

3. Using your tweezers, pick up a single lash and touch the end onto the adhesive applicator tip.

4. Apply the lash to the outer area of your eyelid.

5. Use the safety pin to separate your lashes and adjust the last before it dries.

6. Work your way inwards. You can stop at the half point or your can continue all of the way to the inside part of your eye lid.

Most lash adhesives will dissolve if oil gets on them so make sure you wash your face twice a day with a soap and blot your face dry instead of rubbing it with a towel. If you happen to lose any lashes while washing your face or removing make-up, simply add the few lashes back to fill the gap. Once you have applied a full set of individual lashes, it is much easier to maintain them by adding a few back if they shed rather than removing the entire set and restarting.

We all know how popular tree braids are but what about a tree braid weave?

A tree braid weave is when you have cornrow tracks that the hair is branched out of instead of the standard individual braids. This style can be achieved by using synthetic or human hair extensions however if you are looking for a budget style, using Futura high heat synthetic hair is always an option.

Using a very small amount of extension, you begin to cornrow the hair while branching out the extensions. You will need to continually add more small portions of extensions to the braid while continuing to branch out the extension all the way to the end of the cornrow. The end result is a weave with no weft or a braided style with no visible braids.

In these economic times, how can you get the styles for a fraction of the cost? Let us show you…

When it comes to braiding with human hair, we all know that you need at least 22″ of hair for a decent finished length but that length of hair is so expensive!! But another option is to use Futura synthetic bulk hair that is heat safe. This hair has a natural wavy texture however it can be flat ironed to be silky straight. If you prefer a more natural texture, Futura does offer a Yaki texture as well.

This hair will last just as long as human hair however no more worries about tangling and matting. Simply touch it up with a flat iron when needed and it is brand new all over again.

According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 12.7% of women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. 1 out of every 8.Sounds irrelevant to your everyday life,…that is, until you become diagnosed with it, like millions before you.

After being diagnosed, you think that your doctor will recommend a radiation treatment, which does not result in hairloss,…however, he says the unthinkable. You will need to begin chemotherapy treatments immediately. The effects of chemo treatment are immediate and devastating, both physically and psychologically. Weight loss, exhaustion, overwhelming pain and complete hair loss including the hair on your head, arms and legs, as well as your eyebrows and eyelashes. What would you do?

With all of the wigs on the market, you have several options to choose from however what about eyebrows and eyelashes? Most people do not even notice the importance of these small details until they wake up to find they no longer have them. An eyebrow pencil or eyebrow stencil will be a great solution for most however there are a some who prefer the look of a lace eyebrow. A lace eyebrow has short hairs that are 100% hand-tied onto a piece of lace. Like lace wigs, once the lace is adhered to your brow bone, the hairs will appear to be growing straight out of your own skin.

So, we have given you resources for your hair and your eyebrows, but the most important still hangs in the balance….eyelashes. Most chemotherapy patients will still retain a few eyelashes that are thin and fine. If this is the case, lash extensions would be the best option. If, however, you have experienced entire lash loss, you may consider having a set of seamless eyelashes applied with a strong adhesive that will last weeks and weeks at a time. Seamless lashes are the entire set however there is a micro-seam at the base instead of the typical, larger seam.

Cancer is a very destructive disease and no matter how great you look on the outside, it does not change the reality of what is happening on the inside however studies have shown that those who maintain positive attitudes about their “fight” tend to fight harder and longer,…and increase their odds of a huge win! Looking great is a perfect way to give you that extra boost of self-confidence that can be channeled into maintaining a positive attitude. Who would have ever thought that a simple wig or lash extensions could help save a life?

Note: This “hypothetical” scenario, sadly, is a reality for millions. We  are deeply encouraged by the strength and determination of these patients and aim to help provide them with resources and information to help them conquer their battles, one patient and one day at a time. Keep fighting!

This seems to be one of the biggest challenges a person goes through when trying to customize a lace wig, especially a first time buyer.

There are several lace types to choose from when you design your own cap however there are a couple of things to take into consideration: are you going to wear your hair in a high ponytail, will you have bangs, will you wear a part, etc. Well, lets just dive right in to this one and give you a bit more clarity.

Front/Hairline: the best option for this lace is the finest lace available. This will allow you to pull your hair back without your secret hitting the streets. Some prefer thin skin. It is not as invisible however it is far more durable.

Top/Crown: this lace is not really visible unless you plan to wear a part. Most would choose a more dense lace as there is no need for this portion of your cap to be “thin” and “invisible” as it will tend to show your own hair color through the lace. Unfortunately, if you have dark hair, having a “black” scalp will not look natural and you will have to wear a wig cap.

Back: despite all of the material options available for the back, stretch will always be the most popular due to comfort. As your hair grows, you want your cap to be able to accommodate the extra room.

Nape: this the most important section to consider if you would like to wear your hair in a high ponytail. For that, we always recommend the finest lace available, just like in the front. If you never wish to wear your hair up, you might consider a more dense lace or the stretch.

When it comes to caring for your princess’s locks, don’t just settle for braids when you can add more style with a hairpiece!

Hairpieces are perfect for creating cute ponytail styles for our young ladies but have you thought about adding hairpieces to braids too? Braids will help keep the ponytail style neat without you having to maintain the hair. These quick styles are especially popular during the summertime when it is especially important that our young ladies look great with minimal upkeep.

When it comes to selecting the perfect hairpiece, be sure to pick something that is not too long and something that is similar to her texture and color. You can choose a hairpiece with highlights however be sure to get the same color blend to add when braiding the hair. For younger girls, the afro puff hairpiece set is one of my personal favorites.

After you braid your little one’s hair into a ponytail (or two), braid all of the braids together and wrap them in a bun. Using a drawstring hairpiece, simply secure it to the bun and you are done!

Whether you are suffering from a skin condition or a chemical reaction that resulted in minimal hairloss or balding, there is a solution.

Closures are commonly associated with weaves however when small sections of hairloss is the concern, closures can be used to cover these spots. Closures are small hairpieces with bases about 2″x3″. The hair is tied onto the base so when attached to your hair, looks like your own natural hair.

Alopecia sufferers who have smaller regions of hairloss find closures to be an excellent option. For larger sections, a small, 3″x4″ top piece might be a better solution however for entire crown coverage, a larger top piece or toupee may be needed.

Either way, no matter how large the area of hairloss, there is always a solution to get your looking your best again without having to worry about the exorbitant costs commonly associated with surgery and/or implants.

Want strong, beautiful hair in 7 days? Try CLEAR SCALP & HAIR BEAUTY THERAPY™ and blast your workout mix during your shower. Now that’s a regimen we can get behind. Click here to claim your FREE SAMPLE. Enter VIP Code: CLEARLYFriendsWithBenefits then fill out a short form and you’ll be able to get this freebie!

If you are looking for something that will provide the maximum amount of versatility, side swept bangs are the way to go! The bangs can be created on different hair textures and can be styled messy, sleek, wavy or curly, without losing their flair or style. Perfect for both short and long hair, side swept bangs can take your hair out of the ordinary styling routine without too much fuss.

For those who wear lace wigs, you have already heard of the term but what is this new silk material?

The hair strands are injected into pure Chinese silk, which is placed just at the crown of a lace wig. Since the hairs are injected and not knotted or tied, the result is a more natural, knot-free unit.

Silk lace wigs are perfect for those who prefer wearing a part in their unit. With the finer laces, it was virtually impossible to part your hair without seeing your hair underneath or having to wear a wig cap under the lace wig.

Thin skin was thought to be a great alternative because no knots were visible however it was very difficult to blend at the hairline and most importantly, thin skin is NOT breathable. Silk lace is proving to be the best of both worlds with a minimal additional charge.

If you have ever worn human hair weaves blended with futura high heat synthetic hair, you are probably wondering how the heck to get it to curl, right? Well, we’ve found some answers.

Futura high heat synthetic fiber is very similar to human hair because it can withstand heat up to 300 degrees however it does not mat or tangle like human hair can. It is a fraction of the cost and can last much longer than standard human hair. “Blended” products are a fraction of the cost of 100% human hair products however they can last just as long and be styled, unlike regular synthetic products.

Futura fiber is being used for weaving hair, bulk braiding hair, wigs, lace front wigs as well as human hair blended products such as blended weaving hair and blended wigs.

Since futura is a high heat fiber, it can be flat ironed, curled and blow dried, however, when it comes to curling, it takes a bit longer to get the curls in. Unlike 100% human hair, you have to hold the curler on the hair for at least twice the length of time to get the curl to set. Once you remove the curler, do not pull the hair, just slide the curler out of the curl. Allow the curl to cool before pulling or styling.

Be sure to test a small section of hair underneath to ensure that the curling iron is not too hot!!

Whether you wear weaves or wigs, making your own wig is not as difficult as you might think. Using a fishnet wig cap, customizing your own wig is a dream come true.

Many times, weave wearers spend a bit more money to get a better quality of hair (i.e. Remy Human Hair) because it can be worn more than once. After the weave has been completed and the hair has been cut and styled, it becomes very difficult to remove the weave while trying to keep the tracks in order so the tracks can be put back in the same order to maintain the same hairstyle. Most times, the hair is used only once. Well, there is a solution: making your own wig!

Here are the things you will need:

- Fishnet Wig Cap
- Weaving Hair
- Glue or a Needle and Thread
- Wig Stand/Mannequin/Styrofoam Head

Place the fishnet cap on the wig stand or mannequin head to be sure the cap is stretched to the approximate size of your head. Using glue or a needle and thread, attach the weft to the cap just as you would apply a weave. Once completed, simply place the wig on your head and cut and style as usual.

You can also use the needle and thread to secure the wig to your tracks for longer wear. When time to remove the wig, there is no need to throw away the hair!

For those of you who are new to lace wigs, let us show you how you can wear a lace wig without it looking like you have on a wig.

Once you have picked out your perfect wig, before putting it on, be sure your hair is out of the way. If you have long hair, pin it up as close to your scalp as possible. For shorter hair, just comb it back.

Once you have pinned your hair back, ensuring it is flat, you will need to cover it using a wig cap. If you don’t have a wig cap, simply cut the foot off of an old pair of panyhose and use it to cover your hair. This will help to hold your hair down and keep your wig secure however if you wish to skip this step, that is fine.

Take your wig and align the front with the front of your forehead. Using both of your hands, stretch the cap open and place the wig on your head starting in the front and pull the back down. If you need to make any minor adjustments, just gently pull on the wig to make sure it is on properly.

Once it is in it’s place, determine how much lace you will want to leave around the hairline. Remove the wig and cut the extra lace off. Again, place the wig on your head and make sure it is on properly. Make any final adjustments before applying the adhesive.

At the very center of your forehead, flip a 2″ piece of the lace up and apply the adhesive to the under portion of the lace. Flip the lace back down and press is against your forehead. Using the back side of a comb, press the lace onto your hairline as your slide the back of the comb down against the lace.

Allow the adhesive to properly dry and then take the next 2″ section and do the same thing until the entire wig is adhered. Style the hair as usual.

Note: Some clients prefer to not use an adhesive on their lace wigs. You can attach a comb pin to the front of the lace and secure it to your hair or you can braid a track around the perimeter of your hair and sew the lace to the track.

If you are all about styles that make bold statements, cropped and intricate cuts that create a strong impact. Cropped bangs will attract a generous amount of attention towards the face, so if you love the attention, be free to make a serious statement with these fierce high fashion looks.

No matter if you have short, medium or long hair, a short wig is a quick way to change your look and style in seconds.

Short wigs help to accent a jawline and a sexy neck and can look very professional at work during the day yet very sexy for evening wear. Human hair will allow you to wear the wig natural and straight or with elegant curls. Curl it under for a more professional and conservative look or flip the ends up for a more fun and spunky look.

Yep, this is obviously the trend now. So what if you want the locks that you haven’t grown yet?

Guys with extensions are more popular than we all think. We are so used to thinking this is a market geared towards women however men are taking up a pretty good market-share as well. Unfortunately, guys are not as open about the subject and tend to not ask questions they desperately need answers to.

There are several extension techniques out there however fusion seems to be the best because there are no bulky tracks to hide and they can be worn for a long period of time before they have to be removed and reapplied.

If you are a guy (or a girl) and you have any specific questions about extensions or extension techniques, we strongly encourage you to contact us below. Please note that if you make a “comment” it is not public nor will it be posted.

Now that you have accepted the idea of building your own custom lace wig, you are wondering about the hair texture options. What does all this mean??

There are so many texture options out there and I bet you are so confused by now, so let me help clear the fog on this one. Texture is referring to the type of hair you would like (i.e. straight, wavy, curly, etc.).

If you have Caucasian hair, the best hair texture for you will be “straight” or “silky straight”, if you like the flat ironed look. You can always curl your hair with rollers or a hot curler however if you prefer to have curly hair everyday, you can always select a wavy or body wave type curl.

If you have naturally curly hair, you can choose to go straight, wavy or curly, depending on your preference.

If you have African-American textured hair, your best bet will be to go with a yaki texture. Now, just to clear things up, “yaki” is NOT a type of hair or animal hair, it is merely a texture that looks similar to permed African-American hair. If you prefer the flat ironed look, silky yaki would be perfect.

Some African-American women do not like to have “silky straight” hair as it does not look as natural however some absolutely love it. It all depends on your own personal preference.

If you really like curly textures, please note that these textures tend to require more maintenance. The smaller the curl pattern, the more likely it will be that the hair will tangle and frizz. Despite the fact that the hair is 100% Remy hair, let’s face it, even if you had naturally curly hair, it would tangle. Expecting a lace wig with small curls to not tangle would be considered impractical.

If you are considering a synthetic lace wig, it is not recommended that you get a texture too curly or too wavy. Although they are available, they tend to not last as long as straighter textures.

Convertible bangs, especially when layered, are the most versatile because they can be worn in just about any way.Longer, layered bangs are definitely the style that flatter most face shapes, so when in doubt, have layered side bangs cut in. Layered, convertible bangs need the least commitment and can be easily grown out if desired.

There is a much simpler way of adding more color to your hair style without processing it. Clip-in highlights to the rescue!!

Clip-in highlights are the perfect way to add more color without having to process or damage your own hair. Even better, they can be added or removed with a simple clip of the attachment comb.

Clip-in highlights are available in synthetic bright and neon colors as well as human hair and 100% Premium Remy Human Hair. No matter what your budget is, clip-in highlights are available in a range of lengths and prices.

July 4th is one of the most popular holidays in the U.S., so how do you show your independence?How about a red, white or blue costume wig!!

Costume wigs are, yet again, one of the cheapest ways to show pride for your country. If red, white and blue are not your colors of choice and you want to celebrate your own country, costume wigs are available in a wide variety of colors. Showing support for your country is just a click away!!

With several consumers on the search for great products at great prices, we keep getting the question, “Where do I find great wigs at cheaper prices?”. Well, we did our research,…

The best place to find cheaper priced wigs is to look for sites that offer clearance or closeout wigs. They are generally wigs that are in perfect and brand new condition however they are either over stocked or the manufacturer will no longer be offering the item and want to get rid of their stock at great prices.

These wigs are generally only available in limited colors so if you like to explore wearing different colors, styles and lengths, the clearance section will be perfect for you. If you only like specific colors, be sure to shop quickly because once specific colors are gone, they are gone.

Save even more by planning ahead! If you wear darker shades in the winter and lighter shades in the summer, buy early! If they have a great wig in a darker shade and it is now spring,  buy it now and save it for the winter. It will be cheaper to shop this way than to pay full price for another wig during the winter.

An oval face is considered to be the perfect face shape as it is the most versatile. Nearly every style looks sensational on this model face with perfect symmetry. In long styles, a great classic look is a center or side part with hair touching the shoulders. The short-layered look with curls and a close extended nape focus on this oval.

We are all pretty familiar with fusion extensions but the Tubex technique is taking the hot fusion method by storm!

Tubex fusion extensions have a teflon tube and a loop at the top of the extension. Your hair is sectioned and placed through the large loop. Using the tab at the base of the teflon tube, simply pull the tab and the loop threads your hair through the tube. Use the hot fusion toolto melt the teflon tube and V’WALA!! Tubex fusion extensions are by far the fastest hot fusion method available!

So St. Patty’s Day is right around the corner and you need something to wear. How about a green costume wig? Girl or guy, a costume wig is the best way to show your fun side while out on the town.

If you are looking for a more bold statement, blunt bangs are the style for you.These bangs are always full of volume and they have a typical “Cleopatra” look because they are void of layers. These face-framing bangs look perfect with messy tops, high ponytails and waves or curls.

When it comes to finding the right wig and/or style, it could leave you frustrated, confused and asking, “How do I choose the right wig?”. Well, finding the right wig is not an exact science because there are several factors to take into consideration (color, length, curly, straight, bangs, layers, etc.) however we have found that the best wig will be one that accentuates your best facial features while helping to conceal your “imperfect” features.

The first and most important step is determining the shape of your face. This will help you narrow your options when it comes to length and style. While not all faces will fall into just one category, finding the category that best fits you will prove to be the best.

HEART FACE:
This shape has a wide brow, full and/or prominent cheekbones… (read more)

OBLONG FACE:
This face shape is long and thin, often with a chin that tends to… (read more)

OVAL FACE:
This is considered to be the perfect face shape as it… (read more)

ROUND FACE:
This shape is wide, with full cheeks and… (read more)

SQUARE FACE:
This face is characterized by an angular jaw and square brow… (read more)

TRIANGULAR FACE:
This face shape has a wide chin and… (read more)

Again, finding the perfect wig and/or style is in no way an exact science but with this information, it could help to make the process much easier.

For those of you who love your hair weaves, we have some great summer tips to help you get your summer started looking great!

Tip #1: HIGHTLIGHTS!! Don’t be afraid to add “sun kissed” highlights to your weave. If you prefer darker colors, try a frost with a #30 or #27. A #33 would give you more subtle highlights but will add a nice auburn twist. For lighter shades, try mixing two highlighted blends with the lighter blend on top.

Tip #2: If you don’t want to do highlighting, try a color one shade lighter than your normal shade. This will give you your same look, just a bit more “summer friendly”.

Tip #3: If you are a beginner, try highlighting just at the crown. A frosted closure or hairpiece might be a good starter.

Tip #4: Add some waves or soft curls. This will allow you to have a great “wet and go” look.

Tip #5: Plan your look around your travel plans. If you will be around lots of water or beaches, the last thing you want to do is to weave in a style that you have to keep flat ironed to look good. Find a good style that is very versatile.

One of the best ways to add more summer color to your locks are fusion extensions. They give you the flexibility to add any color (a little or a lot) without a pricey salon visit, processing, breakage or the worry of ending up with the wrong color.

Fusion extensions are available in a myriad of color options as well as rainbow colors such as blue, green, purple, red, hot pink and burgundy. Simply select the color that best suits you and highlight away!! You can add as little or as much as you desire and fusion extensions can last up to 4-6 months, depending on how fast your hair grows.

Be bold and add chunks of color or space them out for more subtle blends. Stack your colors by applying a contrasting color only to the nape area in a length that is a bit longer than your own natural hair.

Fusion extensions are also perfect for guys who want to add temporary color as well. The shorter length fusion extensions would be ideal for guys or if you just want to add color to your shoulder-length hair. Longer lengths are also available for longer hair or if you wish to add length to your own hair.

One of the most common concerns with braids is smelly braids. This happens when braids are washed and not allowed to dry properly. The excess water sits in the braids and begins to smell like mildew or rancid water.

The best way to prevent this is to only wash braids in the morning. This will allow them to thoroughly dry during the day. In addition, you must keep the braids loose, not in a bun or ponytail. This prevents the hair from drying properly and increases the chances of smelly braids.

If you ever happen to get smelly braids, you will need to thoroughly wash the braids with a good smelling shampoo in the morning. Towel dry your braids as much as possible and leave them free while they dry completely.

This process will also work to prevent and get rid of smelly dreadlocks too.

It seems like there are about a million different adhesives for lace wigs out there. So how do you choose?

To be honest, most of the adhesives on the market are just medical grade adhesives that are bottled under different labels. So, despite the cost differences, most are the same product or were manufactured to do the same exact thing.

Some products hold longer and better than others however it is the application technique that needs to be scrutinized. Example: some adhesives require you add  it to your skin and the lace and then wait for both to dry COMPLETELY before applying both glued parts together. Again, if not applied as specified, the adhesive will not hold as well.

Another thing to consider is if your skin and hair is completely residue-free before applying the adhesive. Any oils or leave-in conditioners that are left on the skin will diminish the effectiveness of the adhesive.

We are now all pretty familiar with fusion extensions but the Rinex technique is taking the cold fusion method by storm!

Rinex fusion extensions have a micro ring and a loop at the top of the extension. Your hair is sectioned and placed through the large loop. Using the tab at the base of the micro ring, simply pull the tab and the loop threads your hair through the micro ring. Use the fusion pliers to clamp the ring closed and V’WALA!! Rinex fusion extensions are by far the fastest cold fusion method available!

There are several types and styles of braids for kids but which ones are the best styles in the long run? 

Out of individuals, cornrows and interlocks, the best style of braids for kids will probably be individuals that are short enough and styled in a way where they are not being pulled back. The reason for this is because the hair at the hairline is very fragile. If the hair at the hairline is repeatedly pulled out, over time, the hair will cease from growing back, causing the hairline to be very thin later on. It is very common to see teens with thin edges because as children, they wore braids,…..incorrectly.

If you prefer cornrows (or interlocks that have the same cornrows), simply spray a braid spray right at the hairline. This adds elasticity to the hair strands that might be pulled too tight and it minimizes the amount of hair that would generally snap off or fall out. Individuals, especially micro braids, should be avoided if they will be worn in a ponytail. Sometimes, even if the ponytails is loose, the weight of the ponytail still tends to pull the braids that are anchoring it.

Kinky twists seem to be a very popular trend when it comes to hair braiding styles so what about for kids?

Kinky twists have become so popular because of their natural style. They are generally done using two (2) strands of hair that is twisted together instead of braiding with the standard three (3) strands.`Braids have always been a popular choice for young African American children so kinky twists are yet another perfect option.

Kinky twists can be done using the standard jumbo braid for smaller, less bulky twists or they can be done with the popular afro braid which will result in larger, fuller twists. For perfect ends, simply use a small spiraling roller and dip the ends into hot water to set.

There are several types of attachments for ponytail hairpieces but what are “banana combs” and how do you attach them?

Banana Comb hairpieces are hairpieces that are connected to banana combs. A banana comb is a long banana shaped clip with teeth that are used to hold the hair in place. (see image below)

Banana comb hairpieces are perfect for creating fast ponytail styles while adding extra volume, length and/or curls to your style. To attach the hairpiece, gather a ponytail and twist. (see image below)

Place the base of the banana comb at the nape of your head. While holding the banana comp open, be sure your twisted hair falls into the clip. Close the comb by snapping it closed.

Dreads are one of the most popular styles for both men and women alike and are now being worn by vast ethnicities. Dreads are no longer limited to specific cultures, regions or even hair types.

Now, dreads are available on a weft and made with synthetic fibers so everyone can now obtain this popular hairstyle without the worry of the high maintenance, cost and the long term commitment commonly associated with dreadlocks. Synthetic dreads are very popular because they can be quickly installed and removed. They require no maintenance yet will still look naturally great, week after week.

If you still require more versatility, the afro braid hair can still be used to create “individual” dreads and is available in a larger variety of colors.

There are so many alternatives to coloring your own hair however what about top pieces?

Top pieces can not only be used to cover or add volume to thinning hair however they can also be used to add color to your hairstyle. You can create bangs with a bangs hairpiece or you can create draping bangs with a standard toppiece however either can be used to add color to your own hair.

If you don’t have bangs but would like to try them, a bangs top piece would be perfect. Part your hair in the center and attach the hairpiece using the combpins. For draping bangs, you can place the hairpiece directly in the center or off to the side.

If you plan to add color, you will need to consider the color tone before making your purchase. If you have dark hair and just want to add subtle highlights, you can purchase a frosted color or a solid lighter shade. If you prefer brighter colors, be sure to purchase the lightest shade so the color is more bright and “true”. A #613 works wonders when it comes to reds, blues, hot pinks, etc because the darker shades will tone down the brightness of the color.

Using a temporary color, apply it to the hairpiece. You can color the entire piece or just add random tones. If you have darker hair, you might consider adding some of your own natural shade too for blending.

To achieve the style above, you will need to start off with a #613 and add hot pink and black. The pink will be generously applied with the ends left to be blonde. The black is only used right at the top, gently frosted in, being extra careful to not allow the black to bleed onto the hot pink. Once the piece is completed, you will need to gently layer the very ends with a layering comb. This will help the ends to better blend with your own hair instead of the ends appearing too blunt. Once the piece has been applied, your black hair (with no bangs) will now have amazing hot pink and blonde tones with beautiful bangs,…all without having to cut or process your own hair!

With wedding dates quickly approaching, you still have no idea how to style your hair for your special day. Well, we are here to help,…

Most women view their wedding dates as one of the most important dates in their lives and they want the day to be absolutely perfect. After much research, we have found that updos and spirals seem to be the most popular bridal styles.

For brides who do not have lovely long locks, hairpiece ponytails are the cheapest, fastest AND simply best way to achieve your bridal updo style. When selecting your hairpiece, determine if you want a straight, wavy, curly or the more popular spiral curled hairpiece. For color, be sure to consider if you will be using hairspray or gel to lay your hair down as this will make the color appear darker.

Place your hair in a bun and secure the hairpiece to your bun. Using small sections, take each curl and tack up the ends using a bobby-pin. You can tack up every curl or leave some curls loose to hang elegantly. Once you are done, you can decorate the bun by applying crystals or crystal tipped bobby-pins.

Kinky twists seem to be a hot topic around here so by popular demand, we thought it would be appropriate to give our readers another “kinky twist” article, for the kiddies.

When it comes to kids’ summer styles, we found that kinky twists are a great option. They offer a change from the traditional braids that we usually see but they still allow their hair to “rest” from the daily styling and processing. In addition, the style pictured above is one of the best styles for growing hair and tender edges as well as “age appropriate”.

This young lady has individual kinky twists in the classic bob style. This allows her to wear her hair loose instead of in a ponytail that can potentially rip her hair from her tender edges, ultimately causing permanent hair loss. Her twists are not too long or too full, which can also lead to hair breakage and loss.

Her stylist gently added highlights to the front of her hair giving her a natural “sun-kissed” look that is, yet again, age appropriate, resulting in a very happy client!

Here are a few tips to consider when choosing a style for your little one:

1. Make sure the style is not too long so she can wear her braids loosely instead of always pulled back

2. Make sure the style is not too bulky as this can be too heavy and cause hair breakage.

3. Be sure to consider maintenance before choosing a style because some styles require more than others.

With several consumers on the search for great products at great prices, we keep getting the question, “Where do I find great extensions at cheaper prices?”. Well, we did our research,…

The best place to find cheaper priced wigs is to look for sites that offer clearance or closeout extensions. They are generally extensions that are in perfect and brand new condition however they are either over stocked or the manufacturer will no longer be offering the item and want to get rid of their stock at great prices.

These extensions are generally only available in limited colors so if you like to explore wearing different colors, styles and lengths, the clearance section will be perfect for you. If you only like specific colors, be sure to shop quickly because once specific colors are gone, they are gone.

Save even more by planning ahead! If you wear darker shades in the winter and lighter shades in the summer, buy early! If they have great hair in a darker shade and it is now spring,  buy it now and save it for the winter, blend it with a lighter shade or use it as low-lights. It will be cheaper to shop this way than to pay full price for another product later.

If summer humidity does a number on your hair, try this free sample of Garnier Sleek & Shine hair care! Go here to get your freebie. Just click on the “Get a free sample” tab and fill out a short form.

Eyelashes have always been a great way to add more length but what about color?

Colorful eyelashes are absolutely perfect when coordinated with costumes but that’s not all! They are also perfect when worn to support your favorite team or school, during “Spirit Week” or for fun to add a bit more “color” to your day.

Colorful eyelashes can also be coupled with colorful clip-in extensions to complete the look. Either way, they are fun and trendy!

These full, rounded bangs are a look straight out of the 70′s however they are making a huge comeback this year.These bangs span from one temple to the other and are great for bringing out the cheekbones, concealing a broad forehead and adding more femininity to your facial structure.

So, you just got your hair braided and you are ready to hit the pool. Wait! Although swimming and braids can be a great combination, they can also be a combination for disaster too! Before heading to the pool, you need to be sure you have all of the information and tools you need to properly care for your braids.

1. Spray on a leave-in conditioner on a regular basis to keep your hair protected. Focus on applying the conditioner to your hair only, not the extensions.

2. After swimming, wash your braids thoroughly. Let them rinse under the shower for an ample amount of time to ensure all of the chlorine has been removed. Use a shampoo but focus on cleansing your scalp instead of the extensions.

3. After your hair as been washed, apply a moisturizer or braid spray to your hair, not the extensions.

4. Let your braids air dry during the day. Do not put them in a ponytail or a bun until they are completely dry or else they will begin to smell!

5. Before removing the braids, use a generous amount of braid spray or moisturizer to ensure the hair does not break off.

Here is an elegant wedding hairstyle that is sure to make your special day a day to remember. Here’s how,…

If you have long, full hair, achieving this hairstyle might be a cinch however if you have shorter or thinner hair, your bun may need to be pumped up! Hairpiece ponytails are a great way to help create larger buns for this style.

1. Pull your hair up neatly unto a ponytail.

2. If using your own hair, simply roll your hair underneath and secure with bobby pins. If using a hairpiece, wrap your hair in a bun and attach the hairpiece securely. Starting at the ends, roll the hair under. Use bobby pins to secure the roll.

3. Be sure to bobby pin the bun in a “C” shape instead of just straight across the bottom.

4. Using a comb, gently smooth the hairs on top of the roll so they look neat and “orderly”.

5. Attach your crown veil around your bun. Make any adjustments to your bun to be sure the bun fits in the area of the crown. If your bun is smaller than the crown area, simply re-roll the bun a bit looser so it will fit.

6.  Spray a light mist of holding spray on your bun and your hair to keep your style neat all day.

Whether you are a natural redhead or just want to be one for a day, redhead wigs are the way to go!

Redhead wigs are available in several natural looking shades such as #130, copper and #350 however #33, #30 and #27 have red or auburn tones as well. There are also several blends of reds that are available such as an RS32. No matter which red-head shade you are looking for, there are plenty of wigs available in a range of style. Shop away!!!

Now that you have purchased your lace wig, how do you style it?

Most lace wigs are sold in a “finished” length. This means that if you purchase a 16″ unit, 16″ will be used throughout the unit, resulting in natural layers. Once you put on your unit, odds are, you are going to have to have it styled.

Whether you only want something simple like bangs or desire a more complicated cut, we always suggest you have it professionally styled while the unit is on your head. This will ensure that your stylist customizes the cut to your face shape.

After the cut has been made, be sure your stylist shows you how to properly style the hair to maximize the style of the cut. If any adjustments need to be made, your stylist can do so before you leave your appointment.

Just note: the more complicated the cut, the more time consuming it may be to style the hair. Keep it as simple as possible or check with your stylist about styling time BEFORE you select a cut, if style time is a concern of yours.

Hairloss happens everyday however for some, it occurs at rates faster than they would like. Luckily, there are several options to replace, restore and slow down the process.

PRESCRIPTIONS:
Minoxidil was the first FDA-approved drug for hair treatment. It’s the active ingredient in Rogaine. Minoxidil has a 33 percent chance of re-growing hair in men, mostly around the vertex and mid-scalp areas. No one knows how it works, and it doesn’t treat frontal hair loss,which is where most women and men lose their hair.

SURGERY:
Hair restoration, also known as hair plugs, is a surgical procedure in which groups of hair follicles on one part of the head are moved into the bald area. These groups of follicles are called plugs. Surgeons are able to move hundreds of these plugs within one or two surgeries. Because the plugs come from pre-existing hair, the hairs are more likely to grow.

ARTIFICIAL HAIR:
For those who don’t prefer surgery or prescription drugs, hairpieces have also been used and are the most popular option. Today’s modern pieces look more natural than toupees from the past. Women and men affix hairpieces to their natural hair or have them blended in with the scalp line. They also maintain them like real hair, washing with special shampoos and conditioners.

If you have natural hair and are looking for a stunning, elegant style for your wedding, you are in luck!

Bridal buns are a great way to style your hair, especially for weddings in the warmer months. Not only are buns sophisticated, they allow your hair to remain flawless the entire day without having to pay a stylist an arm and a leg.

For this style, you will simply need

* Holding Gel
* Brush
* Banana Comb or Banana Comb Ponytail
* Bobby Pins
* Accent Flowers

1. Using a generous amount of holding gel, apply to the front of the hair.

2. Smooth the hair with the brush and gather the hair into your hand like a ponytail.

3. Place the banana clip going from ear to ear and close the clip once the hair is neatly in place

4. If the hair is full and long, simply roll the hair downwards and secure the bun to the nape area with bobby pins. If the hair thin, you might consider teasing the hair underneath the ponytail to add more volume. If the hair is short and you wish to have a fuller bun, simply attach a banana comb hairpiece ponytail going from ear to ear and roll the hairpiece hair into a bun.

5. Once your bun has been completed, attach the stems of the accent flowers around the top portion of the banana clip so it is hidden.

6. Use a holding spray to set the hairstyle.

Bangs seem to be making a huge comeback. So, before you start chopping away, there are a few tips you will need to know to make sure that your bangs come out exactly how you want them.

If you are not having your bangs professionally cut, it will be very important that you know exactly which style of bangs you want BEFORE you decide to start cutting. Long, short, layered, blunt, full or thin, these are a few options you will have to think about before starting. If you are undecided on the style and type of bangs you want, you may consider having them professionally cut so a professional stylist can assist you in selecting the perfect look for you.

Here are a few tips to help you out:

1. No matter how full you want your bangs, start off with a smaller section and gradually add to it.

2. No matter how short you want your bangs, always cut them longer than you want them, then trim the to your desired length.

3. For blunt cut bangs, always be sure the hair is laying flat on your forehead (Note: DON’T POKE YOUR EYES OUT WITH THE SCISSORS!)

4. If you prefer slight layers in your bangs, hold the hair straight out when cutting.

5. If you plan to curl or bump your bangs under, make them slightly longer than needed. Once you curl the bangs, make any additional adjustments, if needed.

6. For longer bangs, be sure to consider how to tie them back and out of your face. If you plan to wear them behind your ear, be sure you leave them long enough!

7. If you have curly or wavy hair and plan to wear straight bangs, straighten the bangs before cutting them.

8. If you are cutting a wig, be sure that you have the wig on AND it is placed in the proper position before you begin cutting.

9. Try not to cut the bangs all at once. This will leave you with bangs that are shorter in the center and longer on the outer edges.

10. If you want to try out bangs before making a committment to cut them or want more styling versatility, try purchasing a bangs hairpiece.

For those who love clip-in extensions and are looking for something different, curly clip-ins just might hit the spot!

Many times, a large amount of time is spent curling your extensions, especially if your own natural hair is curly. Instead of spending so much time and heat curling your locks or removing them to roller-set them at night, try curly clip-in extensions.

Futura high heat fiber is a perfect alternative to human hair and lasts just as long without the need for the deep conditioning to prevent dry, brittle and matting hair, not to mention, it’s a fraction of the cost.

So, many of us have not even heard the term but others have heard it and want it. But what is it?

Silk lace is made of a high quality Chinese silk. The hairs are injected into the material so the end result is a 100% natural-looking, knot free unit.

Generally, most clients desire the most “invisible” hairline and opt for the finest lace material. For clients with darker hair, this made the lace wig look un-natural because when parted, the dark hair was visible from beneath the fine lace. The most popular solution was  to wear a stocking cap under the lace wig which would mimic the client’s natural scalp color. Good solution but if you ever wet your lace wig, it would be very difficult to have it completely dry without your hair becoming smelly underneath.

With a silk lace base at the crown, this allows your scalp to breathe much more efficiently than with a wig cap under your lace wig. Becuase of this benefit, this material is becoming very popular for lace wigs however it is also available for synthetic lace wigs, closures, frontals, toupee/top hairpieces and lace front wigs as well.

If you have ever worn human hair wigs blended with futura high heat synthetic hair, you are probably wondering how the heck to get it to curl, right? Well, we’ve found some answers.

Futura high heat synthetic fiber is very similar to human hair because it can withstand heat up to 300 degrees however it does not mat or tangle like human hair can. It is a fraction of the cost and can last much longer than standard human hair. “Blended” wigs are a fraction of the cost of 100% human hair wigs however they can last just as long and be styled, unlike regular synthetic wigs.

Futura fiber is being used for weaving hair, bulk braiding hair, wigs, lace front wigs as well as human hair blended products such as blended weaving hair and blended wigs.

Since futura is a high heat fiber, it can be flat ironed, curled and blow dried, however, when it comes to curling, it takes a bit longer to get the curls in. Unlike 100% human hair, you have to hold the curler on the hair for at least twice the length of time to get the curl to set. Once you remove the curler, do not pull the hair, just slide the curler out of the curl. Allow the curl to cool before pulling or styling.

Be sure to test a small section of hair underneath your wig to ensure that the curling iron is not too hot!!

So, you have just gotten your hair done and now your weave is shedding. What do you do? We are here to help.

If you have a shedding weave, it is simply because the hair is slipping out of the track. This may be because the hair is silky straight or because the track is not tight enough. To prevent your weave from shedding, you will have to seal the weft before applying it.

You will need an adhesive and it will need to be applied to the hair just below the weft ON BOTH SIDES. Allow the glue to completely dry before applying the weft to your hair.

If your weaving is shedding excessively, you might need to seal the weft while wearing the tracks. This is not recommended however it is the best way to ensure that your brand new weave is not ruined by becoming too thin. Section the hair so the entire track is exposed. Apply the glue and use a blow dryer (on low heat) to dry. Once the track is completely dried, you will need to go on to the next track until your entire head is completed. Please note that this will reduce the shedding however since only one side of the track is sealed, it might not prevent the weave from shedding completely.

With mohawk wigs hitting the market hard, we are seeing some amazing mohawk wig styles! No longer just the average “mohawk”,…

When mohawks came back, they were seen on men because the hairstyle required the hair to be much shorter than women prefered. Now, it seems the look has changed yet again. Mohawks are now being worn by more and more women because the style does not need to be worn so short. Wig manufacturers  realized the need to be versatile and have began creating these amazingly styled mohawk wigs that can look elegant AND edgy. With a longer crown, this wig can be worn in several different styles that would be perfect for office wear, evening wear and night wear. There is nothing like leaving work, going into the bathroom, and with just a few combs with your fingers, you can walk out looking like you are ready to start your evening on the town.

Versatility and ease of styling are one of the main things making these wigs such hot sellers but the colors these wigs come in will be sure to win you over. This wig is available in solids colors, natural highlighted mohawk or bright colors such as red, blue, hot pink, burgundy and platinum blonde mohawks. Whether you are more conservative or

No matter where we look, it is a fact that most brides prefer to have up-dos for their wedding. So, here is yet another style that will help to make your special day even more beautiful.

In order to achieve a perfect donut bun, you may need to purchase a donut filler. This is a formed, firm sponge that will help to form your donut with ease. Here is what the piece will look like:

You will need to do the following:

1. Place your hair in a ponytail where you wish to wear your donut bun.
2. Slide the donut to the base of the ponytail.
3. Neatly separate the hair around the donut and using another rubber band, secure the hair around the base of the donut.
4. Hide the ends of your hair underneath the donut.
5. Attach a flower (or ribbon, angel’s breath, pearls or rhinestones) to accent the bun.

Have you ever wanted to be blonde for a day? A week? A month? Adding a blonde wig to your routine is really as simple as 1, 2, 3…

Do blondes really have more fun? Well, its not too hard to find out with all the blonde wigs out there! Here’s how simple it is:

1. Shade – find your perfect blonde shade. Ash, golden, frosted, mixed, whatever looks best on you, note your color option(s).

2. Length – which length best suits you? No matter what the length of your natural hair is, you can choose from something very short, very long and everything in between.

3. Style – now this is the fun part. Do you like short or draping bangs? Curly or silky straight? Blunt cut or layered? There are so many styles to choose from out there. If you can’t find your perfect wig style, don’t be afraid to buy something a bit longer and then have it cut and/or styled.

When it comes to extensions, we tend to focus our attention on the needs of women however what about men? There are quite a few men who wear or are looking for more information about extensions. Well, you have found it!

Guys with shorter hair will have a much more difficult time trying to cover up weaving wefts which is why fusionextensions still is one of the best extension techniques for men. Fusion extensions have all of the flexibility needed to achieve whatever look you are going for without the worry of trying to conceal wefts or tracks.

Fusion extensions are a wonderful way to add more length, highlights, low-lights, and/or bright colors to your own hair using a strand-by-strand application technique.

Shorter hair lengths of fusion extensions are available which would be perfect for men, or even women who desire shorter styles. The shortest is about 12″-14″ however if you prefer something shorter, you might consider custom-made fusion extensions.

Tip #1: be sure your own hair is cut into layers before applying the fusion extensions. If you hair has bluntly cut ends, it will be much harder to blend with the extensions.

Tip #2: if your hair is darker and you prefer lighter extensions, get 2 or 3 colors and have your stylist blend them for “summer kissed” highlights.

100% hand-tied lace front and full lace wigs are not always an affordable option for most, especially in this economy. So how can you get the same look at a fraction of the cost?

Many manufacturers are trying to respond to the current market conditions while offering great, yet cheaper, products to their clients. Lace front wigs that are machine-made in the back and top but 100% hand-tied at the front are already a huge success however in an attempt to still offer a great product, many have moved to using the high-heat Futura synthetic fiber.

Futura high-heat synthetic fiber is one of the best competitors of 100% human hair products because it tolerates temperature of up to 300 degrees however it is just a fraction of the cost of human hair. For those lace wig wearers who are no longer able to afford the higher priced full lace wigs, this would be a great alternative.

If you are looking for a classic, elegant bun for your wedding , look no further!

In order to achieve a perfect donut bun, you may need to purchase a donut filler. This is a formed, firm sponge that will help to form your donut with ease. Here is what the piece will look like:

You will need to do the following:

1. Place your hair in a ponytail where you wish to wear your bun.
2. Starting at the ends, use the bun shaper to roll the bun.
3. Once the bun is created, flip the ends of the shaper in a upwards direction so it is shaped like a crescent.
4. Secure the bun down with bobby pins.
5. Attach a large flower (or ribbon, angel’s breath, pearls or rhinestones) to accent the bun.

If you have an oblong shaped face, your face is long and thin, often with a chin that tends to look pointed. This shape looks best with a low side part and a sweep of hair brushed across the forehead and secured with a comb. The look of volume with an asymmetric flow of hair to one side widens your face and reduces length. Straight-falling bangs or bangs blended with the sides of your hair shorten the overall face length. Your best hair length reaches to the middle of the neck. Look for volume with curly or wavy styles that are very becoming, giving you the illusion of balanced width.

Costume wigs are always a great and inexpensive way to celebrate a holiday. Feeling a bit in the spirit of Valentine’s Day? Well, how about surprising your mate with flowers and chocolates in a red or pink wig? This will not only add a bit of humor but will also add some sparks as well!

Fusion has quickly become one of the most popular extension techniques, but how do you remove fusion extensions without all of the pulling and breakage?

The hot fusion tool is not only used for applying pre-tipped fusion extensions, it is also the best tool to use to remove them. It is conveniently plugged right into the wall and the tip quickly heats up to melt down keratin  glue, the adhesive which is generally used in most fusion applications.

TO APPLY FUSION EXTENSIONS:
There are two (2) grooves in the fusion tool, one smaller than the other, which allow you to place the pre-tipped extension and the small amount of hair into. This allows the glue on the tip of the extension to melt onto your hair. Roll the glued tip between two (2) fingers to further secure the glue as it dries onto your hair. If the small groove is too small, simply use the larger groove. If neither groove works for your application method (U-Tips, V-Tips, etc.), simply use the tip to melt down the glue.

TO REMOVE FUSION EXTENSIONS:
To remove the fusion extensions, simply place the tip of the fusion tool between your scalp and the fusion tip and close the fusion tool. (NOTE: only use this removal method if hair fusion extensions have grown out enough to safely fit the fusion tool tip between your scalp and the fusion tip to prevent scalp burns!!) Gently pull the fusion tool away from your scalp and the fusion tip will slide right off.

Using the hot fusion tool will not only minimize breakage but it will also save you hours of waiting for removers to dissolve the glue….or dissolve the glue just enough to fuse with all of the other tips together. YIKES!!

Ever wanted to try Just For Men’s Touch of Gray product? Well, now is the perfect time. Click here to print your mail-in rebate that is good for up to $9.50 off your next purchase, making it FREE! Hurry, because all purchases must be made before December 31, 2012!

Click here to claim your FREE SAMPLE of Garnier Fructis Pure Clean 2in1 Shampoo. While supplies last…

Claim your FREE SAMPLE of Garnier Fructis Pure Clean TODAY!!

Claim your FREE SAMPLE of L’Oreal’s Sulphate-Free EverPure Shampoo.  Help protect your hair with this free sample! To request this sample click on ”Sample”. From there you will be instructed to Login or Register.

We all know what a headband is,….and then we all know what a wig is,….so is a headband wig what we think it is? Absolutely!!

A headband wig is just a three quarter (3/4) wig with a headband on it. Some wigs have stretch headbands while other have the plastic headbands. And some are human hair while others are synthetic. Regardless of the look or style of the headband wig, it still will have the same concept: a wig with a headband on it.

When it comes to eyes, some prefer to go BOLD with color and lashes. So how do you achieve bold lashes if your lashes are wimpy? Here’s how,…

Here is what you will need:

* Shorter lash flares
* Longer lash flares
* Tweezers (preferably for lashes)
* Lash Adhesive
* Safety Pin

1. Be sure your lashes are clean and dry before applying lashes to them. Lashes with oil or make-up residue on them will be unable to properly adhere with the flares.

2. Loosen the lid to your lash adhesive but do not leave the top off or it will dry out.

3. Using your tweezers, pick up the longer single flare. Open your adhesive and touch the applicator tip to the ball at the base of the lashes.

4. Attach the flare to the outer part of your lashes. Be sure to get the base of the flare as close to the base of YOUR lashes as possible.

5. Using the safety pin, separate your lashes and be sure the flares are properly positioned before the adhesive dries.

6. Work your way to the inside of your eye and once you reach the mid-point, begin using the shorter lashes. This will result in a more natural look however if you prefer to use all of the same length, this can also be done. If you already have long lashes, you might only need to apply the longer flares to the outer part of your eyes.

Most lash adhesives will dissolve if oil gets on them so make sure you wash your face twice a day with a soap and blot your face dry instead of rubbing it with a towel. If you happen to lose any lashes while washing your face or removing make-up, simply add the few lashes back to fill the gap. Once you have applied a full set of flare lashes, it is much easier to maintain them by adding a few back if they shed rather than removing the entire set and restarting.

Single braids are one of the most poplular braid styles for African American women but is it healthy for the hair?

Summer is a great time to give your hair a “rest” from the chemical processing and styling. Many opt to go with braids but is that the right choice for your hair or just a decision of convenience? Well, you will be shocked what we found.

Braiding is always the best option to give your hair a rest but you have to take extra care of the SCALP as well. Most times, the braids are braided too tight or pulled too tight when styling and this can cause permanent thinning at the hairline. If you plan to wear single braids this summer, be sure to do the following:

1. Apply a braid spray right after and for several days after your new braid style. This will help to add more elasticity to the hair and prevent it from snaping off or pulling it out from the root.

2.Try to avoid pulling the hair back in a ponytail too tightly. Sometimes, even with our best efforts, the weight of the ponytail can cause the edges to be stressed.

3. Try some braided styles that can be worn down instead of in a ponytail.

4. Especially if your hair has been chemically processed, be sure to keep your braids moisturized, epsecially if you plan to swim. The hair should remain thoroughly moisturized AT ALL TIMES, especially right after washing. There is nothing worse than to grow your hair out a good 3″ during the summer only to have 4″ of processed ends break off when the braids are taken out.

5. Moisturize the hair just before removing the braids. Even though you plan to wash your hair right after the braids are removed, there will be a lot of tangles that if removed incorrectly OR if the hair is too dry when they are removed, the hair will break right off.

So, we all know what kinky twists are but kinky twist-outs????

Kinky twist-outs are when you use the kinky twists to set the hair into a pattern and then untwist the braids. You are left with wonderfully kinky hair that has a very natural looking wave pattern.

If you do not have natural, virgin hair or just wish to add more bulk, color or length, using an afro braid will be your best option. You can either individually braid in the hair or you can interlock it onto your tracks.

If you have individual kinky twists, simply let the braids set or dip them in hot water. Allow them to completely dry before untwisting them. Be sure to leave about two (2) inches of braid at the root to prevent the hair from slipping and shedding.

If you plan to interlock the hair on, you will also have to section the hair into individual kinky twists and allow them to set as above.

Your wave pattern will depend on how small or large your twists are.  The smaller the twist, the smaller the wave patter whereas the larger the twist, the larger the wave pattern. Repeat the setting process as needed.

When it comes to washing your extensions, there are a few things you might need to know,…

Regardless of the quality of your extensions, 100% human hair extensions can become very dry and damaged if they are not properly cared for. Once the hair has been removed from its donor, the scalp can no longer provide the hair with natural oils that keep the hair moisturized and healthy. In addition, the hair is generally color treated and/or processed with texture. These chemical process alone can lead to severe damage however most times, we also use heated appliances on our extensions. This is definitely a recipe for disaster!

The best thing you can do to your extensions is keep them moisturized. We do not mean that they need to be soaked in heavy greases however simple applications of shine mists can supply the hair will ample moisture and not weigh the hair down too much. The second step is to wash your extensions with a sulfate-free shampoo. This keeps the hair from being stripped of its moisture, the leading cause of damage.

It is also not recommended that you wash your hair daily with extensions. A few times a week will still prove to be a costly mistake however if it is necessary, try rinsing the hair of any residue under luke warm water and only apply a sulfate-free shampoo about once a week, at the most.

If you find it is absolutely necessary to wash your hair daily, you might consider wearing clip-in extensions that can be quickly and easily removed and re-attached. Simply remove them, wash your own hair, then re-apply the extensions.

As our little swimmers head to the pool, there are a few things that you might want to know to ensure their delicate locks will not be fried by the end of the summer…

1. Always apply a leave-in conditioner before heading to the pool. This will act as a “sun screen” does for our skin. It will help to condition and coat the hair to protect it from damaging heat, chlorine and loss of moisture.

2. If they plan to be in and out of the water for several hours, bring a spray bottle with the leave-in conditioner with you. Again, just as sun screen needs to be reapplied throughout the day when in the sun/water for long periods, so will your conditioner.

3. If there is a shower at your pool, try to have your little one rinse most of the chlorine out of their hair as soon as they get out of the pool. This will prevent the chlorine from further damaging their hair once the hot sun dries their hair.

4. Always thoroughly wash AND condition the hair after they are done in the pool. The rinsing at the pool is NOT enough! We recommend a purifying shampoo because this will help to remove the build up ofthe panthenol that is generally contained in leave-in conditioners. The panthenol does an excellent job of coating the hair strands to protect and strengthen the hair however after several applications, this could leave the hair very hard and “hay like”.

5. After the hair has been thoroughly washed, wring out as much water as possible and then apply the conditioner. After the hair has been deep conditioned, rinse the hair in luke-warm water, NOT hot water.

6. After the hair is cleaned, apply a moisturizer. Argan/Moroccan oil is a wonderful moisturizer for all hair textures. Even as little as a few drops on straight hair goes a long way. Curlier hair will need more moisture because it is more prone to dryness.

7. If you still notice the hair is a bit dry, try a deep conditioning using a conditioning mayonnaise (or plain olive oil) with a heating cap. The heat allows the conditioner to better penetrate the hair.

There are several types of attachments for ponytail hairpieces but what are “jaw clips” and how do you attach them?

Jaw Clip hairpieces are hairpieces that are connected to jaw clips. A jaw clip is a clip with large teeth that are used to hold the hair in place. (see image below)

Once the hair has been added to the clip, you can create wonderful ponytail hairstyles in seconds. Simply gather your hair and twist. (see image below)

Then, place the jaw clip hairpiece on. You can blend your own hair with the hairpiece or you can keep your hair under the clip. Either way, it is the fastest way to create a great style, no matter where you are.

Whether you are ordering a stock lace wig or a custom lace wig, there are some things that you might want to know to help you choose the wig that is perfect for you.

Before ordering your lace wig, there are quite a few options that you will need to become more familiar with to ensure that your wig is perfectly you.

1. Human Hair or Synthetic – You will need to decide if you want your lace wig to have human hair or synthetic hair. Human hair is more versatile and will allow you to use heated appliances on it however synthetic fiber is a much more cost effective option.

2. Hair Length – Since lace wigs pricing is determined mainly on the length of the hair, you will need to determine your preferred length so you have an idea of what the cost will be. Length is generally measured from the crown, not by how long it will hang. Be sure to check to verify that if the length is “finished length” or “one length”. One Length means that 16″ may be used at the crown however only about 10″ will be used at the nape so the unit has a “one length” look. Finished length means that if you order 16″ of hair, 16″ is used at the crown AND at the nape, resulting in natural layers.

3. Hair Type – hair type refers to the type of hair used (i.e. Chinese, Indian, Malaysian, Remy, Non-Remy, Virgin etc.). Most human hair units are made with 100% Remy Human Hair. Chinese Remy tends to have very thick strand diameters, is very straight and tends to not hold curls well however Indian Remy has thinner strand diameters and generally has a naturally wave pattern. If you prefer unprocessed hair, a virgin unit would be your best option.

4. Hair Color – Most lace wigs come in natural darker shades however if you want lighter shades, frosted, mixed, tipped, two-toned or custom color blends, you might want to look into creating a custom lace wig.

5. Hair Texture – The hair texture you select will determine how much maintenance your unit will require. The curlier the texture, the more maintenance and product you will require. If you prefer a gentle body wave and want to straighten it, you might reconsider if you live in high humidity areas as this will cause the hair to frizz.

6. Hair Density – Hair density refers to how thick you want your unit to be and is generally represented with a percentage. 80%-100% tends to be a standard density however if you have much thicker or much thinner hair, you might consider adjusting those numbers so your unit looks more natural on you. Also, if you want to add a curly texture, you might need to reduce the density unless you prefer to have more volume at the top.

7. Base Material - The material and design of the base is one of the most important options to consider as it will determine how invisible and how comfortable your unit will be. The finer the lace, the more invisible it will be however the less durable it will be. Stretch lace is like monofilament and is perfect for the back of your unit to allow for growing hair. Thin Skin tends to mimic your scalp better because the strands are injected however it is similar to plastic and does not allow the scalp to breathe like lace does. Also, find out if the wig is just a lace front, full lace with the finest lace only at the hairline or full lace with the finest lace around the entire perimeter. This will determine if you can wear your unit in a high ponytail or no ponytail.

8. Base Measurements – Selecting your base size will determine how and if your wig will fit properly. If you are ordering a stock lace wig, be sure to measure the circumference of your head to ensure that your wig will fit before ordering. If you are ordering a custom unit, be sure to take your measurements carefully and properly to ensure your unit fits correctly. When measuring, be sure to not place the tape too tightly or snug on your head as it will lead to a tight and uncomfortable unit.

9. Base Color – The base materials are available in different colors to help mimic the color of your own natural scalp. Afterall, once the hair is parted, you will not see any wefts, only the color of your base so it makes perfect sense to select a color that matches your skin tone. If you are unsure, simply part your own hair and look at the color of your scalp. Odds are, your scalp is much lighter than your natural skin.

 10. Misc. Options – Does your unit give you additional options to choose from? Did you want to add silk to your base? Or how about baby hair and bleached knots? Be sure to look at all of the options and select carefully as some options come standard and some do not. The last thing you want is to get your wig and wish that you had added something else.

Now that you have picked out her dress and shoes, how do you plan to style your flowergirl’s hair? Well, we are here to your rescue!

Spirals seem to be the most popular style on little girls, without a doubt, but there are a few ways to style these lovely locks of curls. If your flowergirl does not have natural spirals, spray on some hairspray and use a hot spiraling rod. These rods work wonders in creating stunning spirals regardless of her natural texture. If you prefer to not use heated appliances on your flowergirl, you can use the bendable styling rods or for more textured hair, you can set the hair using two-strand twists.

DOWN DOS:
If you plan to let your flowergirl wear her spirals down, you can also add in a princess crown, a headband, a ribbon and bow as a headband or a coordinating flower from the bride’s bouquet can be pinned in to your little one’s hair. These simple technique will turn a hair full of regular spirals into a work of art.

UP DOS:
If your flowergirl plans to wear her hair in a ponytail, you can still use the hot styling rod or maybe you would prefer to use a spiraled hairpiece. If you go with a spiraled hairpiece, she can either wear the piece loose “as is”, or you can use bobby pins to tack up the ends and create an beautiful bun. Try using some “angel’s breath”, a few coordinating flowers from the bride’s bouquet or ribbon to add to your flowergirl’s updo. A tiny comb-crown would also look great at the front of her ponytail.

COMBO DO (as pictured):
To achieve the style above, you will need to part the hair from ear to ear and place the hair at the top into a loose ponytail. Individually take the ends and tack them up around the base of the ponytail so the bun is nice and full. Use flowers and angel’s breath to accent the bun. To secure the flowers, simply use a glue gun to attach the flowers to bobby pins and insert the pins in the bun.

For the hair at the bottom, allow those spirals to loosely flow.

Mohawks are back again, but this time, they are not exclusive to “rockers”,….they are being worn by EVERY ONE!!

In order to appeal to this new larger mohawk crowd, wig manufacturers have gone to the edge and brought back some amazing mohawk wigstyles! Short, medium, highlighted, colorful, you name it. Mohawk wigs have become yet another way for people to try out the look or just wear them on specific days or to specific events.

No matter which length you prefer, mohawk wigs can simply be styled with your finger tips in under a minute. They can be worn flat for office wear,  slightly lifted at the front for evening wear and completely up for a more bolder look  for night wear. They can be worn messy or neat, to the left, front or to the right. These new mohawk wigs are so versatile which is why they tend to appeal to a much larger crowd now. The best part about these wigs is,….they are available in solid shades, in natural shades with highlighted mohawk tips or with colorful tips. These wigs can really turn heads with their available red, blue, hot pink, purple, burgundy and platinum blonde tipped mohawk.

 Either way, whether you wear it daily or just occasionally, a mohawk wig is definitely a “must have” to any wig collection. That is, IF you are bold enough to handle the attention,….

Shedding weaves are pretty common, especially if the hair is silky straight, however it can be prevented. Before applying the weaving hair, you will need to

 lay the hair on a flat surface. Using a bonding glue, you will apply the glue just below the machine-tied weft the entire length of the weft and on both sides.

If you are using a hand-tied weft or a micro weft, you will only need to bond one side of the weft because only a single weft is used. Machine-tied wefts have 2 wefts sewn together, thus the need to bond both sides.

You got it right!! Synthetic lace wigs that are 100% hand-tied are hitting the market with a huge welcome from the public. Finally, the same concept at a fraction of the cost.

After a thorough search, only a handful of stores offer synthetic lace wigs however most of them are machine-made in the back, thus only considered to be “lace front”. We did, however, find a powerhouse online store that is making big moves to offer a huge selection of products to their clients, ExceptionalHair.com. Not only do they offer synthetic lace wigs (that have full lace bases and 100% hand-tied) but they are 100% customizable as well.

Click here to view their pricing and order information.

When it comes to bridal hairstyles, there seems to be a trend with up-dos. So, we found a few that might help make your day even more beautiful.

No matter if you have short or long hair, the perfect bridal up-do is not hard to do. Some brides-to-be may have nice, long hair however in order to achieve the perfect up-do, she may still need to add some hairpieces or extensions for added length, volume and/or color.

CURLY BUNS:
It is much easier (as well as faster and cheaper) to apply a spiral curled hairpiece that is tacked up rather than curling your own hair and hoping the hairspray holds your curls the entire day. Reducing the ”dressing” time will allow you to focus on the other millions of things already on your mind.

BUMP BUNS:
The key to achieving the perfect “bump” is VOLUME. Without volume, your bump will fail to make its statement. If teasing your hair underneath is not an option for you, try adding some additional hair or roll the hair with something the size of your desired bump (i.e. a sock, etc.) We have even gotten rave reviews on using maxi-pads in knee-high nylons to create some awesome “bumps”. No matter what you use, it doesn’t always have to cost an arm and a leg to get the look you want.

LOOSE BUNS:
A loose bun is one of the most natural looks for all hair lengths. You simply loosely roll the hair sideways and tack it up with bobby pins to secure it. No need for it to look perfect because it is supposed to naturally look a bit messy. Add in a princess crown, a decorated headband or just some “angel’s breath” flowers for a finished look. Use hairspray to set the hair strands to look as “neat” or as “messy” as you desire.

DRAPING BANGS WITH BUN:
This is personally one of my favorite bridal styles because it looks so sophisticated and full of style. If you have bangs or like the “draping bangs” look, this style will look absolutely amazing on you. If your hair is not long enough in the front to connect to your bun, you will need to add a couple of clip-in extensions. If you do not connect your hair to your bun, you will spend much of the day removing your hair from your face and could pose to be a problem during picture-taking. If you also plan to use a hairpiece for the bun,  just add the bangs into your own ponytail before you add the hairpiece. This will ensure that it is secured down properly. After you have secured the bang, add the hairpiece and tack up the ends to complete the style. Use hairspray to secure any shorter hairs from the bangs, sides and nape to keep the style neat.

Wigs come in a variety of lengths and styles however you can style your wig to create a look all your own as well.

Styling your wigis a great way to change up your look from day to day or even from day to evening wear. A wig with draping bangs can be worn as is during the day and wisped to the side or behind the ear for evening wear. Try draping them to the opposite side for a different look as well. Short wigs can be worn “neat” during the day and messy for evening wear.

The amount of styling as a lot to do with how the wig is constructed however there is no “right” way to wear a wig. The model who is modeling your wig only provides a “suggestion” and in no way is meant to limit the styling options. Be creative and be YOU!!

With such high costs associated with fusion applications, many are wondering how they can learn the process themselves. Well, we have got the scoop for you!!

When it comes to applying fusion extensions with fusion tubes, you will need a few things to start: I-tip fusion extensions, a fusion hook, fusion pliers and fusion tubes.

Stack the fusion tubes onto the stem of the fusion hook. Using the tip of the fusion hook, gather a small amount of hair, slide a single fusion tube over the end of the hook and pull the hair through. Get a single I-tip extension and place it inside the tube ensuring the tip and tube are as close to the scalp as possible. Using the fusion pliers, clamp the fusion tube completely.

Be sure the tubes are completely clamped and secured as this will prevent slipping or dislodged tips.

Now that summer is around the corner, you are ready to find your own summer look. What is in?

Well, highlights are the name of the game. Whether you like a natural sun-kissed look or going all out to get those bleached blonde shades, now is the time!

If you prefer wigs, try to get something with highlights that accent your sun-kissed skin tones. Start out with a similar base color that you generally wear and add the complimenting highlight (i.e. if you wear #4, then try some #27 or #30 highlights).

If you wear weaves, add a touch of highlighting color to the crown of your weave for a natural looking contrast. If you are new to the look, be sure to add your regular color right at the top to lay over the highlight color. This will give it a nice “blended” tone as the hair naturally mixes.

For braids or interlock, you can always mix and match the hair as you like or even add 2 highlight colors for more depth.

Now, fusion is the best way to add highlights and/or lowlights or party colored highlights without having to process your own hair. If you are not sure which color you will like, get a small pack of 20 strands to experiment.

Another popular color trend is color stacking. This is when the top crown portion of your hair is one color however the bottom nape area is a different color. You can be lighter or darker at the top depending on your own style. If you prefer your own natural color at the top, try using a much darker or much lighter color at the bottom using fusion extensions. This is absolutely the best way to experiment with color without the commitments, processing or damage.

For those of you who are new to lace front wigs, let us show you how you can wear a lace front wig without it looking like you have on a wig.

Once you have picked out your perfect wig, before putting it on, be sure your hair is out of the way. If you have long hair, pin it up as close to your scalp as possible. For shorter hair, just comb it back.

Once you have pinned your hair back, ensuring it is flat, you will need to cover it using a wig cap. If you don’t have a wig cap, simply cut the foot off of an old pair of panyhose and use it to cover your hair. This will help to hold your hair down and keep your wig secure however if you wish to skip this step, that is fine.

Take your wig and align the front with the front of your forehead. Using both of your hands, stretch the cap open and place the wig on your head starting in the front and pull the back down. If you need to make any minor adjustments, just gently pull on the wig to make sure it is on properly.

Once it is in it’s place, determine how much lace you will want to leave around the hairline. Remove the wig and cut the extra lace off. Again, place the wig on your head and make sure it is on properly. Make any final adjustments before applying the adhesive.

At the very center of your forehead, flip a 2″ piece of the lace up and apply the adhesive to the under portion of the lace. Flip the lace back down and press is against your forehead. Using the back side of a comb, press the lace onto your hairline as your slide the back of the comb down against the lace.

Allow the adhesive to properly dry and then take the next 2″ section and do the same thing until the entire front is adhered. Style the hair as usual.

Note: Some clients prefer to not use an adhesive on their lace wigs. You can attach a comb pin to the front of the lace and secure it to your hair or you can braid a track around the front of your hair and sew the lace to the track.

When it comes to lace products, which is better: bleached knots or injected strands?

When the strands are individually knotted onto lace, the knots are visible and need to be bleached. The bleaching helps to conceal the dark knots however the hair is literally bleached. This bleaching process generally leads to the knots becoming dry and brittle over time, resulting in breakage and shedding of the hair.

The knots are generally bleached just at the hairline however some clients prefer the bleaching of ALL knots. Again, the end result is shedding piece that will become too thin to wear.

When the strands are injected, they are not knotted, thus no need to have the knots bleached. The end result is a more natural-looking piece because it looks as though the strands are coming directly out of your scalp. In addition, the shedding is significantly minimized.

Thin skin was thought to be the best material used for injection techniques however thin skin is like a plastic material and is unable to “breathe” or allow the scalp to properly ventilate. Skin weft is yet another product where the strands are injected. Instead of machine-tied wefts, the hair is injected into a long strip of thin skin which can be adhered to the scalp. The result is undetectable even when parted.

Silk is now the newest base material to hit the market. The strands are injected into this pure Chinese silk. Not only can you have the invisible knot-free strands, it is a 100% breathable material, unlike the thin skin. This new silk material can be used for lace wigs, lace front wigs, frontals, closures, toupee top pieces and best of all, synthetic lace wigs. Since you cannot bleach synthetic fiber knots, injecting the synthetic strands  into silk lace is the answer everyone has been looking for.

So, for the answer, due to the versatility and the ability to be undetected, injected strands win with flying colors!

Both men and women alike can experience hair loss. Despite the fact that there aren’t too many things that can be done to prevent it, there are plenty of options out there to help you conceal it.

Think about getting a toupee  hairpiece. Hairpieces can be customized to fit your remaining hair or balding area. They also can be worn while swimming and even during other physical activities.

Top pieces are also a great and inexpensive way to help conceal thinning hair. They are generally applied to the top portion of your hair and can be clipped or sewn on, depending on how you prefer to have it attached. Whether you like something short, with bangs or longer, top pieces are a must have.

Skin wefts are also very popular as they can be adhered directly to the balding area and looks like the hair is growing from your scalp.

Consider concealing thinning hair with wigs, weaves or extensions, no matter which ethnicity you are. There are a host of extension options out there that will be a perfect fit for your hair needs.

Check with your stylist to see which options will allow you to regrow your hair while you conceal the area(s) as some extension techniques are more prone to causing hair damage and/or breakage than others.

When it comes to extensions and wigs, it is crucial that you take extreme measures to keep the hair moisturized. So, how do you do this without being left with heavy hair?

Before you wash your wig or extensions, you would consider applying a cream or mayonnaise type conditioner, especially if the hair is light in color. Once hair has been removed from the donors’ scalp, it no longer is supplied with essential, natural oils produced by the scalp to keep it moisturized. This results in dry, brittle hair. In addition, if the hair has been processed with texture and/or color, this further dries the hair and can lead to damage if it is not properly cared for.

Before washing your extensions or wig, apply an ample amount of moisturizer (or conditioner) to the hair and allow it to soak in. For a deep conditioning, use a processing cap and heat with a blow-dryer. Once the hair has been conditioned, wash the hair using a gentle shampoo and be sure to only rinse the hair in lukewarm water, NOT HOT WATER!

There is so much hype with the fusion pre-tipped extensions but what if you have bulk hair and would like to attach them using a fusion application?

You will first need a few supplies: fusion glue sticks, fusion glue pot or glue gun and a fusion shield. Gather a small amount of your hair as well as a small amount of the bulk extensions. If using the glue pot, dip the tip of the extension into the melted glue and apply it close to your scalp. Be sure to use the fusion shield to protect your scalp from burns!! Roll the glued section between your fingers as the glue dries.

If you are using a glue gun, place the extension tip near your scalp, just below the fusion shield. Apply a small amount of glue to the area and wait for the glue to slightly cool before rolling between your fingers.

Be sure to get the correct glue remover for your glue sticks because not all removers work with all glues.

This face shape is characterized by an angular jaw and square brow, with the jaw and brow being nearly the same width. When looking for a wig with this face shape, your goal will be to soften the sharp angle of jaw line and minimize the squared-off brow. Wear your best styles with hair swinging forward onto the face to reduce the angles. Hair length is best about 1-1/2” below the chin, or extending to shoulder length to reduce and soften the square-ness of your jaw. Hair worn on the forehead is always perfect for you, as long as it is wispy or fringed. Never wear straight bangs. Hair turned under at the bottom also will narrow the width of the jaw. Styles with loose curls and waves add extra dimension to square faces as well.

Human hair and synthetic blended wigs have taken the market by storm but what about weaving hair?

Human hair for weaving has always been a popular option. When the high heat futura hair for weaving was introduced, it was an instant hit as well because it was made to mimic human hair without all of the matting. You could flat iron it, hot curl it, blow dry it,….at a fraction of the cost of human hair!!

When the blended wigs were introduced, they were (and still are) the hottest new item on the market. Now, you could finally buy a wig that you could heat style without having to pay hundreds of dollars for it. So, now the newest addition to the “blends” market is weaving hair.

The new “blended” weaving hair is sold in 10″ and 12″ in silky straight as well as yaki textures. Since they are new and “introductory”, they are only available in limited lengths and colors. We hope this product stays because based on our reviews of the product, it is an absolute winner and if it stays, we would like to see it offered in various lengths and colors.

We rate this product a THUMBS UP!! What do YOU rate it?

Now that you have gotten your perfect wig, you will need to be sure that you properly care for your investment.

Caring for your new human hair wig and keeping it in good condition is pretty easy as long as you have all of the needed products.

To care for your wig, you will need a wig brush, wig comb, wig shampoo, wig conditioner and any other wig styling products.

When styling your wig, be sure your wig brush or wig comb does not come into contact with the wefts at the cap. This can loosen the weft and cause the hair to shed uncontrollably. If your wig is tangled, start from the ends, not at the top and try straying on a wig conditioner to help remove the tangles.

When storing your wig, be sure to place it on a wig stand in a closed area, such as a closet. For long term storing, you might consider placing the wig back in it’s original plastic bag to keep it free from dust and debris.

Your wig should be washed every 12-15 wears however if you keep your own hair underneath clean or wear a wig cap, your wig will need washing less often.

If you want to cut or restyle your wig, the “DIY” approach might not be the best decision. Consider taking your wig to a stylist to have it professional cut and/or styled.

Summer is quickly approaching and you are looking for a way to get those great summer highlights without all of the bleaching, damage and expensive salon prices. What are your options?

P.U. (Poly Urethane) extension are the way!! They are quick and easy to apply with no huge commitments to keeping them in for weeks and weeks at a time. They already have an adhesive so you simply remove the backing and apply!

The adhesive on the backing of the P.U. extensions last about a week however if you love them (and you will!!), you can always apply more bonding glue so they can be worn again and again.

Are you looking for a way to spice up your boring relationship? Well, we have a great solution: ROLE PLAYING!

Did you know that purchasing a new wig and/or a new outfit is a cheap way to spice things up? Costume wigs are a perfect way of accomplishing this mission, no matter what time of the year it is.  Here are a few tips to help you get something you both will love.

Tip #1: Get something colorful to match an outfit that your mate likes.

Tip #2: Get something much longer or much shorter than your own hair to give you a different look.

Tip #3: If you are a brunette, become a red-head or a blonde. This is a great way to re-invent yourself for the day or the time being.

Tip #4: Don’t scare them away! If your mate is new to this, be sure to stick with wig colors similar to your own,…and simply change your “name”. ; )

Tip #5: Be adventurous! Meet your mate somewhere and approach him as if you were “someone else”.

Tip #6: Keep adding fuel to your new FIRE! Add new wigs to your collection to keep things going and to keep your mate guessing. He/She will NEVER know who you plan to be today!

Coloring your hair may be something many of us are familiar with but what about coloring your wig or extensions?

As long as you are wearing 100% human hair extensions or wigs, you are free to color treat them. Many manufacturers will not recommend processing the hair because it can result in over processing however if you know what you are doing and are using a gentle process, there is absolutely nothing wrong with it.

When coloring your extensions, we always suggest purchasing a lighter shade of hair and applying a semi-perm rinse on the hair to darken. It is far more gentle considering the hair may have already been bleached and/or colored. If you purchased a darker shade, simply trying to lift the color without the use of bleach may not work if the hair has been colored. In order to lift the color, you would need to use a bleach, which can be extremely damaging to the hair and is not normally suggested. Again, the extensions may indeed be 100% human hair however these conditions would be very trying for our own hair, let alone hair that has been removed from the donors’ scalp causing it to be void of the natural oils that help to keep the hair healthy and from becoming too dry and brittle.

If you are in doubt about coloring your extensions or wig, we recommend that you first consult with a professional colorist. They will be able to determine if the hair is able to handle additional color and/or bleaching as well as help you obtain the perfect shade. Note: Never attempt to process synthetic or synthetic blend products!

So, you want to add color to your hair but you aren’t quite sure which color or how long you want it to last. What are your options?

If you plan to add color to your hair, the first thing you want to determine is “How Long?”. How long do you want to wear this color? Will a weekend or a day do for you or do you plan to keep this color for a couple months? The next question is “Which Color?”. With all the variation of colors available, the sky is the limit,….literally.

HOW LONG?:
If you only plan to wear the color for a day or so, there are plenty of color creams or sprays that you can use on your hair to add color until your next wash. If you plan to wear the color for a week or so, there are some semi-perm colors that will work perfectly. For additional color stay, you can apply heat during the process to keep the color an additional week or so. If you are considering something more “long term”, try a permanent color. (Please note: Temporary shades will fade and possibly bleed onto light colored clothing.)

WHICH COLOR?:
Do you have a favorite color, team or school you want to represent? Or maybe a blend of colors is more down your alley. Again, the sky is the limit however if you plan to use different shades, be sure to keep the colors separate so they do not bleed into each other. Also note, the lighter your hair, the brighter the color will be. If you hair is dark brown or black, the color may only show up in the sun if you use darker shades such as red, hot pink, purple, burgundy, etc. whereas shades like yellow or orange may not show up at all. If you have dark hair and desire brighter shades, you will need to lighten your hair for the colors to show “true”.

There are a myriad of wigs to choose from out there but what if you can’t find your perfect color blended wig?

Many wig wearers have experienced this at one point or another and are left stuck and wondering what their options are. Please note that if you have a synthetic wig, you cannot change the color of your hair. If you have a human hair wig, there are a few things you can do.

Tip #1: We do not recommend bleaching your wig. If your wig is dark and you would like highlights, we would suggest you visit your local stylist to add the highlights. Human hair wigs are generally very processed so another process will simply minimize the wear.

Tip #2: If you want to customize your own highlights or color blends, we suggest that you get a wig in the lightest highlight color you are  looking for. Comb in a semi-permanent hair color to create the highlights without the damage. For added “depth”, try combing in 2 or more separate colors.

Tip #3: If you don’t like it, wash and try again! Since the color will wash out, let the wig soak for a longer period of time when washing and your “canvas” will be ready all over again!

Tip #4: Perfect your highlighting method. Once you find the perfect color blends and amount of highlights, you can continue to experiment with other colors, more or less highlights, etc. The sky is the limit!

Tip #5: When coloring a lace wig, be sure not to get the color on the lace, especially if the color is very dark or a colored “rinse”. The last thing you need is a beautiful lace wig with a burgundy tinted lace.

Tip #6: If you have a human hair blended wig, you should not attempt to color it. They synthetic hair will not take well with chemicals and even a rinse will not properly “stain” the hair.

For those who wear weaves, braids and wigs on a regular basis, you might experience hairline hairloss at some point. This is because of tight hairstyles that pull the hair right at the hairline, where it is more fragile and prone to loss.Micro braids pulled in a tight ponytail or tight weaves are the main culprits however interlocksand cornrows can also cause this type of hairloss. Lace wigsare commonly associated with hairloss at the hairline as well because of the adhesives used.

To prevent hairline hairloss, do not style the hair tightly. Ponytails should be loosely gathered and weaves should use beehive tracks with the hairline hair left out. If cornrows must begin at the hairline, do not pull the hair tight. Contrary to what we have been told, tight weaves/braids do NOT last longer, whereas they tend to stunt or stop hair growth, if hairloss is not the result.

Eyelash sets are one of the best alternatives to eyelash extensions which can be pretty costly and time consuming to apply. But how to you wear them?

Unlike the individual lashes, eyelash sets come together in a set of 2. They are applied using a lash adhesive that is applied right at the rim of the false lashes and adhered to the base of your eyelashes. The end result is perfectly extended lashes in under 5 minutes!

Eyelash sets generally can be worn for several days before having to reapply them, depending on the adhesive used. In addition, if cared for properly, they can be worn many times before having to replace them. Definitely an inexpensive way to look like a million bucks!

If you love braids, we are sure that you have heard of the term. For all of those who are not quite familiar with it, here they are!! KINKY TWISTS!!

Kinky twists are by far one of the most popular styles aside from micro braids. They are unique, ethnic, sexy and most of all, cheap and easy to do! All you need is a bundle or two afro braids and you are half way there.

Afro braids are generally pretty thick so you might find that you will need to cut the braid in half (depending on your desired length) and also split each bundle before braiding. Start off braiding the extension onto your own hair with three strands for about an inch. Then, split one strand in half and add it to the other strands. This will leave you with only two strands.

Using both hands, start rolling the strands between your thumb and pointer fingers as you twist the two strands all the way to the ends. If you want kinky and fat twists, only roll the strands once. If you prefer a tighter and smaller twist, continually roll the strands as you twist.

Once you are all done, use a small spiral roller to roll the very ends of the braids. Using boiling hot water, dip the ends, blot dry with a towel, let cool and v’wala!!

When it comes to buying extensions, whether you are purchasing them online or in a store, sometimes, it is not always possible to get an exact color match. So, is that good news or bad news?

We think it is GREAT news! While someone who is obsessive about matching their hair color might not be as enthusiastic about this, it is acutally a good thing. Noone’s hair is going to be a exact match with extensions. In addition, their roots may match perfectly but not their ends and vice versa. The best solution is to buy a shade “similar” to your hair, a shade lighter AND a shade darker. This will help blend all the colors together to create a better match for you. Another option is to buy two similar shades along with another shade that is much lighter, to create natural-looking highlights.

Another tip is to match to your ends, especially if you are buying extensions for more length. Naturally, our ends tend to be slightly, if not drastically, lighter than our roots. The last thing you want to do is have your hair gradually lighten towards your ends with darker tips from the extensions.

And finally, if all else fails, buy a shade much lighter than your own and apply a gentle rinse to the hair to get it the shade you want it to be. If you are using 100% human hair extensions, there is nothing wrong with applying color to them to get them to match your own shade better.

Many of us used to think that false lashes were only worn for special occasions however they seem to be more of a day-to-day trend now.

With such a large variety of lashes on the market, there is a way to wear false lashes and not look like you are over-done. Lash sets are now available in shorter lengths and thinner densities so you don’t have to feel like you are wearing peacocks on your lids. There are still the more flashy types of lashes available however if you are looking for something that you can wear everyday to enhance, thicken and lengthen to look of your own lashes, you definitely have options.

Many do not prefer lash sets and opt for something much lighter like individuals or flares. This allows you to add as few or as many lashes as you require. Some prefer only to add lashes to the outside of their eyes, some prefer to add from the center outwards and some like to go all out and apply the lashes on the entire eye. Whether you prefer the whole eye or just a small section, there is always a way to use fake lashes look real on you.

The “beehive” is one of the most popular ways to braid tracks, especially for clients with longer hair. This braid styles is used for full sew-in weaves, interlock styles and for those who wear wigs. This style is also perfect for micro braids that are worn in ponytails. Micro individuals are braided around the perimeter with a spiral “beehive” braid in the center that wefts are sewn onto.

By far, this track style is the best way to keep your hair when wearing a weave or wig because no matter how long the client’s hair is, the hair will still remain flat and also because there is reduced stress to the hairline. With cornrows to the back, if the clients hair is too thick or too long, there will be an un-natural “bump” in the back where the braids are bundled together. In addition, cornrows to the back add more stress to the hairline, as well as take far more time to complete.

Tree braiding is one of the most popular types of micro braiding techniques. When done correctly, it is difficult to determine if you are wearing braids or your own natural hair.

Tree braids start out just like regular micro braids however the extension hair is branched out of the braid, thus the term “tree” braiding. Once the hair branches out, it helps to conceal the micro braid of your own hair.

To ensure your tree braid styles lasts, be sure to use 100% premium remy human hair to prevent tangling and matting. Your stylist will also need to pay close attention when applying the remy hair to ensure that the cuticles are all going in the same direction. This will also prevent tangling and matting which is commonly associated with regular human hair extensions.

Lace wigs are definitely a huge trend however for those who prefer to wear their own natural hairlines or want to avoid using the adhesives on their hairlines, a 3/4  (3 quarter) lace wig is the perfect alternative.

3/4 (3 quarter) lace wigs are becoming more popular because when lace wigs are adhered and removed improperly, they tend to pull out all of the finer hairs located right at the hairline. This gives the appearance of a very thin hairline and in worse cases, a receding hairline. So, what is a 3/4 (3 quarter) lace wig??

A 3/4 (3 quarter) lace wig is just like a lace wig. The hair is 100% hand-tied to create the most natural look. The cap is designed using a high quality stretch lace that covers the back portion of your head, allowing you to leave the front of your own hair out. Combs are inserted into the cap that will allow you to secure the unit to your own hair. For added security, comb pins can easily be attached as well.

You can also secure the 3/4 (3 quarter) lace wig down by braiding a track around the perimeter of the hair that will be covered, and sewing the unit to the track using a needle and thread. This will allow for longer wear without the need to use adhesives like with full lace wigs.

Take a break from ponytails and daily styling with this cute hairstyle. Here’s how!

1. Part the hair from ear to ear and put the back into a ponytail to secure it.

2. Section the hair to cornrow. Depending on the texture of the hair, use an oil moisturizer or use water from a spray bottle to ensure the hair is smooth and tangle-free.

3. Using a rat-tail comb, wrap the section of hair around the tail part of the comb. Make sure the comb is as close to the scalp as possible and slide the tail out while still holding the hair with the other hand.

4. Once the tail is removed, the twist will be a bit loose. Spin/roll the hair in the same direction until the twist is nice and tight.

5. Apply a rubberband to the end of the twist.

Style the back as desired.

Now that summer is in full swing, hairpieces are the perfect way to add length and volume to your ponytail style.

One of the most popular types of hairpieces are drawstring ponytails. They have a comb at the top and bottom as well as an elastic drawstring that can be pulled to secure the piece to your ponytail.

There are also ponytail hairpieces with jawclips and banana combs,  buns and human hair pieces to fit all of your ponytail styles and needs.

Every time we look for hair on the web, the first thing we see is “Indian Remy” human hair, right? So what is the difference and why the heck is this hair so popular?!

In the past, most (if not all) of the hair on the market was “Chinese” hair. The diameter of Chinese hair is much thicker and the hair is very straight and generally unable to hold curls when using a hot curler. When Indian Remy hair was introduced, it spread like a wild fire! Finally there was hair that was not so silky straight and had the ability to “wave” when it was wet, NATURALLY! The strand diameters were a bit thinner making it easier to blend with more hair types as well.

“Virgin” simply means the hair has not been processed with color or texture. Since some Indian hair is naturally wavy, you can actually purchase virgin hair that is already wavy, unlike with Chinese hair. This has made Virgin Indian Remy hair very popular with African-American women because it can be worn naturally wavy or flat ironed straight, adding more versatility than other hair, without all of the processing and damage.

PLEASE NOTE: when shopping for “virgin” Indian Remy, it is NOT available in light brown or blonde shades. No matter how many times we mention this, we still tend to get a handful of readers asking if Virgin Indian Remy hair is available in #27……no, it’s not.

More and more parents of African American children are holding off on applying harsh chemicals to their kids’ hair so finding natural hairstyles can sometimes be a challenge.

Natural twists seem to be a favorite because they can be worn “as is” or to set/tame natural spirals. No matter if the hair is curly or kinky, these natural twists are easy and always help to keep the hair neat.

Depending on the desired style, these natural twists can be done using a mist of water, light oil moisturizer, hairdressing cream, activator, light holding gel or a strong holding gel. If the hair is easy to manage, you may find that a light mist of water will work perfectly, however for more coarse hair that is going to be set and loosened, a strong holding gel might provide the hold you are looking for. Again, it all depends on if you plan to keep the twists “as is” or if they are only used to set the hair.

Section the hair in small plats and separate the section in two parts. If the hair is not already wet, spray a light mist of water on the hair or apply your cream or gel. Begin twisting the two strands together. For a tighter twist, roll the sections between your fingers as you twist. Once you get to the ends, apply a tad bit more cream or gel and roll the ends into a natural spiral.

When it comes to “big hair”, how big is TOO big?

Well, how full one prefers their hair is actually their own personal preference and the limits are ENDLESS. Some prefer to have very straight, thin hair while others like to go for the gusto, and opt for thick, big, curly or wavy hair. Either way, there is no limit to how big you can go, however, if you want a more natural look, you might opt for thinning your mane down a bit. Extensions that are TOO full and thick might not appear natural.

Obviously, textured hair that is full is mainly a result of texture and some “natural” hair guru’s opt for a natural looking, “big” look.. Whether it is an afro, spirals or waves, having naturally big hair is definitely a trend however if you plan to weave in extensions to obtain this look, you might consider going with a tighter curl instead of more tracks. The tighter curl will give you all the volume you are looking for without all of the weight associated with adding too many tracks.

Another option is to try mixing a few different but similar curl patterns together. This variance in curl pattern will prevent the curls from grouping together. You can also try flipping tracks of the same spiral pattern. Usually on track extensions, all of the curls go in one direction however if you flip the track so alternating tracks are going in the opposite direction, again, this will help to prevent the curls from synchronizing together and will give more volume.

Finally, if you really want to go big, try styling the hair once it is dry. Generally, we recommend only styling curly/wavy hair when it is wet and then allow it to dry on it’s own to help keep the curl pattern together. When going big, the more you can get those curls to seperate, the more volume you will get. You can individually split curls into two sections or you can use a rat-tail comb all over for maximum volume.

If you have ever worn futura high heat synthetic hair, you are probably wondering how the heck to get it to curl, right? Well, we’ve found some answers.

Futura high heat synthetic fiber is very similar to human hair because it can withstand heat up to 300 degrees however it does not mat or tangle like human hair can. It is a fraction of the cost and can last much longer than standard human hair.

Futura is being used for weaving hair, bulk braiding hair, wigs, lace front wigs as well as human hair blended products such as blended weaving hair and blended wigs.

Since futura is a high heat fiber, it can be flat ironed, curled and blow dried, however, when it comes to curling, it takes a bit longer to get the curls in. Unlike human hair, you have to hold the curler on the hair for at least twice the length of time to get the curl to set. Once you remove the curler, do not pull the hair, just slide the curler out of the curl. Allow the curl to cool before pulling or styling.

Be sure to test a small section of hair underneath your wig to ensure that the curling iron is not too hot!!

Okay, now we are getting to the meat and potatoes of building a lace wig. Density is one of the most important options you will have when you are building your wig and this is what determines if your hair look like a wet cat or a  lion’s mane.

Density is generally entered as a percentage however it can also be entered as “light”, “medium”, “thick” and everything in between.

50% density is generally for toupees and top pieces because women generally do not get hairpieces this thin unless they already have very thin hair. This density is pretty common for thinner hair in men over 40 years old.

80% density is very popular for “average” hair volumes. It is not too thick but not too thin either. If you were to part the hair on the unit, you would be able to see a normal amount of “scalp” from the part. This density is also very popular for curly hair styles so the hair is not too thick.

100% density is great for thicker hair volumes. This is the volume you would typically see on a hair model (on a shampoo commercial). If you were to part the unit, you would only see a minimal amount of scalp from the part.

Anything higher than 100% is not as common but is it available. Densities of 120% and more are very popular for Vegas showgirls and female impersonators because they are pretty much too thick for everyday wear.

When it comes to extensions, we have seen our share of “bad weaves”. So, here are a few tips to ensure that your weaves are nothing like these pictured.

DO:

* make sure your stylist is NOT a beginner. Don’t be a guinea pig or you will end up looking a mess!
* make sure there are no visible tracks showing. There is nothing worse than a weave with tracks showing.
* wear your hair in the style it was indeed to be worn in. Many stylists only focus on visible areas however if you change the style, you might end up exposing some tracks.
* talk to your stylist and inform them of any styling variations you wish to have so they can be sure that all tracks are hidden no matter how the hair is worn.
* consider other extension applications if you want more styling versatility with no visible attachment.

DON’T

* pull your weave/wig back if it was not intended to be worn that way.
* pull your hair behind your ears ESPECIALLY if you have thin edges!!
* pull your hair up in a ponytail without FIRST checking to see if you have enough hair at the nape to cover the tracks in the back.
* attempt to blend thin edges with a full bodied weave.
* attempt to blend kinky hair with a silky straight weave. Flat iron the hair or go with a more textured weave.

With the economy up in shambles, we are starting to see new products hit the market that will ultimately save the consumers a bit of green.This is where futura and human hair blended wigs come in.

Futura is a high-heat synthetic fiber that closely resembles human hair. It can withstand heat of up to 300°F which means it can be curled and flat ironed. Since it is blended with human hair, this gives the wigs even more styling flexibility.

If you are looking for human hair and futura blended wigs, buy fast because these wigs are flying off the shelves and manufacturers are having a difficult time keeping them stocked.

It is suggested that you wash your wig, either human or synthetic, every 10-15 wears, depending on the climate and your lifestyle.  Before washing your wig, using a wig brush, gently remove all tangles.

Using a large bowl or sink, run some cold water and add a small amount (about 1 tbsp) of regular shampoo as the water is running. Place the wig in the water and gently move the wig around using your fingers, for a few minutes. Let the wig soak in the water for about 5 minutes.

Drain the soapy water and refill bowl or sink with clean cold water. Repeat this process until the water and wig are clear of all soap. Using the wig brush or a comb, gently remove any tangles again.

Drain the clear water and blot the wig dry. Allow your wig to completely dry on a wig stand or turn it inside-out and lay it flat.

- DO NOT wring out your wig.
- Do not agitate your wig in the water.
- Do not allow synthetic wigs to dry by the heater or in the sun.

Flat irons are not only perfect for straightening the hair, they are also great for adding perfect curls to your hair…

If you have been holding off on purchasing a ceramic flat iron, wait no more! Not only do they do an amazing job at making your hair silky straight, they can also add amazing spirals, curls and flips,….all without having to purchase additional appliances!

Before using a flat iron, we always suggest using a heat protection spray to help protect the hair from the heat. In addition, if you hair has a problem holding curls, you might want to use a holding spray.

Using a small section of hair, apply the flat iron closest to your scalp and slowly move it away. Once you are about 2″ from your scalp, rotate the flat iron 180° as pictured above and slowly continue to pull the flat iron away from your head. Be sure to keep the ends in place so they can slide through the flat iron as well. Once you hair is released from the flat iron, you will see that your hair will have a nice “body” curl. If you wish to have tighter curls, move the flat iron through your hair slower and for looser curls, move the flat iron through your hair faster.

For spirals, you will need to again start at the scalp and roll the flat iron 360°, then continue to slide the hair through.

If you are wearing a high-heat synthetic fiber (aka Eventra), you will need to move the flat iron through your hair much slower and be sure to not pull the hair as you slide it through. Pulling on the hair will result in the hair being pulled straight and you will be left with an uneven curl.

There are several ways to do twist outs however the twisting method directly determines the quality of the style once the hair has been untwisted. So, how do you do the corkscrew twist out?

The corkscrew twist out is simply done by using smaller sections to allow your own natural curl pattern to help set the twist. In addition, a softening moisturizer (i.e. an activator) or a beeswax is applied to the hair and the strands are carefully rolled between the fingers as the hair is being twisted. This helps keep the sections separately spiraled and neat, instead of more fuzzy. Note: The more the sections are twisted, the tighter the corkscrew and the longer they will keep their neat look. Once the strands are untwisted, they are simply shaken into place with no additional manipulation or styling as this will result in the separation of the sections and a more fluffy result.

We are all familiar with synthetic lace wigs as well as bleached knots but can they both go hand in hand?

Unfortunately not. Bleached knots are only an option when 100% human hair is used. Since synthetic fibers cannot be colored or bleached, it is not possible to bleach the knots on a synthetic lace wig.

A good way to help conceal the knots is to use a silk base, increase the density or add baby hair around the entire perimeter.

Whether you wear extensions or wigs, it is a must to learn how to silk condition your extensions to keep them lasting long and looking great.

If you plan to spend the extra money on high quality human hair, such as Remy, Premium Remy or Virgin, it is imperative that you properly silk condition the hair on a regular basis to protect your investment. Once the hair is removed from the donor’s head, the hair no longer is provided with natural scalp oils that keep the hair soft and shiny. This makes the hair more prone to damage and breakage, especially is it has been colored and texturized. A silkening treatment does wonders for keeping the hair strong, silky and shiny.

Here is what you will need to deep condition your extensions:

* Silk Treatment (such as BioSilk Silk Treatment)
* Blow Dryer
* Plastic Bag (i.e. a product bag or a Ziploc bag)
* Wig Brush

Apply a generous amount of silk to the extensions paying special attention to the ends. Once you have added the silk to the hair, using the wig brush, brush the hair to ensure that each strand is coated with the silk. Place the extensions in your bag and use the blow dryer to heat the bag. Keep the blow dryer moving so you do not melt the plastic onto your extensions! Once you bag is thoroughly heated, allow the extensions to remain in the heated bag until it is completely cooled. Remove the extensions from the bag. There is NO NEED to wash out the silk treatment however if you feel that the hair is too “heavy”, you may shampoo the hair with a gentle or sulfate-free shampoo. Be sure to rinse the hair in LUKE WARM water only! Using hot water will remove ALL the silk from the hair.

Depending on how frequently heated appliances and/or styling products are used, how much the hair was processed and weather conditions, you may need to deep condition your hair more often than suggested however we recommend a good deep silk condition every month.

When it comes to adding extensions, does it matter if you have layered hair? Absolutely not!Even if you have short, layered hair, it is still possible to add extensions that would look completely natural.

If you plan to add additional length to your layered hair, you should only add it in the back, nape area and just over your ears. This gives the appearance that you have layered your hair at the top and left more length in the back. You might find that you will need to gently layer the extensions that were placed just over your ears to ensure that the front layers blend into the back. No matter if you are using clip-ins, fusion, wefted hair or a skin weft, the process and location of the extensions would be exactly the same.

To achieve the style above, using a flat iron, gently flip the ends outward in the front.

Not only can mannequin heads be used to learn extensions, they can also be used to learn minor or temporary color techniques.

Most professionals know that some colors will look completely different on the container than on the client. The best way to become more familiar with color tones and shades is to actually do it on a very small section of a mannequin head.

Whether you plan to lighten, frost, tone, do a lift and deposit or just add funky, crazy temporary colors, the best thing to do is to be sure you are giving the client the color they actually want by knowing exactly what you are doing. These student mannequin heads are used around the world to help teach students how to cut, perm, color and lift hair. They are made with 100% human hair so the hair responds exactly how any client’s hair would.

Generally only sold to schools, these student mannequin heads are now being offered to the general public at great prices so anyone can learn the basics. With such a huge push of the “DIY”ers, now buying perms and color treatments from your local beauty supply stores don’t have to be such a pain.

Pink wigs, blue wigs, green wigs, yellow wigs,….no matter what the occasion, colorful wigs are a great way to have fun and celebrate.

Everyone knows that costume wigs are great to wear along with costumes however they can also be worn to parties, clubs, school events, team spirit, dance recitals, plays, for dress-up or simply because you just want to! The best part about it is costume wigs can be styled to customize your own look! Add pigtails, trim the bangs, fluff it, tease it, whatever, just have fun with it!

So, you are looking for the perfect wig. Which is more popular: short, medium or long?

It seems that medium length wigs are the most popular wigs purchased by wig wearers. Medium length wigs are perfect because they are not too short to pull back but not too long to get in your way. Since medium length wigs can be curled or worn straight, they  are very versatile.

Human hair wigs that are blended with futura high heat fiber is the perfect option for your medium length wig because they are much more cost effective yet they can still be styled with heat

Whether you wear extensions or wigs, it is a must to learn how to deep condition your extensions to keep them lasting long and looking great.

If you plan to spend the extra money on high quality human hair, such as Remy, Premium Remy or Virgin, it is imperative that you properly condition the hair on a regular basis to protect your investment. Once the hair is removed from the donor’s head, the hair no longer is provided with natural scalp oils that keep the hair soft and shiny. This makes the hair more prone to damage and breakage, especially is it has been colored and texturized.

Here is what you will need to deep condition your extensions:

* Deep Conditioning Oils (i.e. Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Argan Oil, etc.)
* Blow Dryer
* Plastic Bag (i.e. a product bag or a Ziploc bag)
* Wig Brush

Apply a generous amount of oil to the extensions paying special attention to the ends. Once you have added the oil to the hair, using the wig brush, brush the hair to ensure that each strand is coated with the oil. Place the extensions in your bag and use the blow dryer to heat the bag. Keep the blow dryer moving so you do not melt the plastic onto your extensions! Once you bag is thoroughly heated, allow the extensions to remain in the heated bag until it is completely cooled. Remove the extensions from the bag and shampoo the hair with a gentle or sulfate-free shampoo. Be sure to rinse the hair in LUKE WARM water only! Using hot water will remove ALL the oils from the hair.

Depending on how frequently heated appliances and/or styling products are used, how much the hair was processed and weather conditions, you may need to deep condition your hair more often than suggested however we recommend a good deep condition every month.

Natural twists are such a great way to help keep your kids’ hair looking neat while maintaining their natural texture. So, how do you do them?

Natural twists are very simple to do for most because it only involves the twisting of two-strands. To achieve the style pictured above, do the following:

1. Section the hair from ear to ear and tie up the back.  In the front, you will do short cornrows and individual twists in the back.

2. Part the hair for your cornrow. Be sure to add a drop of oil moisturizer on your fingertips before you begin braiding. Once you get to the end of the cornrow, use a  rubberband to hold the braid in place. Comb through the ends of the braid and begin twisting. Twist all the way down to the very ends and add a small amount of moisturizer on the ends.

3. Once you have completed the cornrows in the front, begin sectioning the hair in the back for your twists. Some perfer very neat parts with rubberbands at the base and some perfer to gather hair and just begin twisting. Whichever technique you prefer, think of the end result. If your little one has thin or short hair, you might need neater parts because they will be more visible however if your little one has very thick or long hair, the parts might not be visible at all.

TIPS:
- Be sure to thoroughly comb or brush each section after applying the moisturizer and before twisting. This will result in neat and shiny twists.
- For shorter and fatter twists, just do the standard twist with the two strands however for longer and thinner twists, roll the hair through your fingers as you twist.
- If the twists begin to look dry, spray on a braid spray or apply a drop of moisturizer on your fingertips and starting at the base of the twist, work your moisturized fingers to the ends.

Most of us have probably already heard of lash extensions but how do you apply them?

To apply your own lash extensions, you will only need a few things:

1. individual lash extensions (short, medium or long)
2. individual lash adhesive (clear or black)
3. good tweezers
4. Large safety pin

Take the lash adhesive and place a drop on a small piece of foil. Using the tweezers, remove each lash from it’s container, dip the tip into the adhesive and apply the tip to the base of your lashes, starting on the outer part of your eye (be sure to look closely into the mirror to ensure you are adhering the lash to the correct area). Hold the lash with the tweezers to allow the glue to set. Use the safety pin to correctly position and seperate the lashes  before the glue completely sets.

If you notice that you are losing lashes, you might consider dipping more than just the tip into the adhesive or even touching the lash directly to the adhesive tip to be sure it is completely coated. Instead of waiting for all the lashes to fall out, just replace individual lashes as needed and they will last and last without a completely new install.

You might also notice that one side looks absolutely beautiful while the other side looks “different”. This is either because you used your other hand or because you tried using the same hand, so that eye’s lashes are not facing the right direction. As much as possible, you will need to try to use your other hand: left hand does left eye and right hand does right eye. After a few times of practicing, both eyes will look like they were professionally installed, all for about ten bucks!!

When it comes to achieving natural hair styles, all you need is one thing,….an afro braid.

The afro braidis a bundle of kinky hair that can be used for tree braids, individuals, kinky twists, interlocks or twist-outs. Despite being “kinky”, this hair is not yarn-like. It has a very natural wave pattern that can be worn as is or separated for a more kinky look. Either way, how else can you wind up looking like a million bucks for close to $10??

After spending a bunch of money on flat irons and hair smoothing products, we are pleased to announce,….BED HAIR IS BACK!!

Bed hair is when your hair is styled to look messy, like you have just waken up and gotten out of bed. No more frying with the flat iron, no more brazilian silkening kits, no more product build up to prevent the frizzies! Not only is this a great style for natural hair, we are now seeing more and more clients who wear wigs and extensions doing the whole “bed hair” thing. It creates are more natural look and requires less time to style and maintain.

So, how do you get the ”bed hair” look? Well, there are a few steps to take for different hair types. Here are some of the most popular ways to get “bed hair” in seconds:

1. Stritz your hair with a bit of hairspray and comb your hair upside down. Once you flip your hair back, it should be really messy. Finger style and you are done.

2. Spritz your hair with a bit of hairspray and scrunch your hair in your fists and release. This will add a slight “bend” to the hair making it messy.

3. If you have natural wavy hair, simply let  your hair air dry and comb through your dry hair with a wide tooth comb. This will help to seperate your waves and add volume and fluff.

4. If you have curly hair, seperate your curls either one by one or with a wide tooth comb (depending on how curly your hair is).

We all know the benefits of bleached knots but should you really bleach the knots on the entire unit?

Well, despite the fact that it creates a more natural look no matter where the unit is parted, it can cause the hair on the unit to break and shed uncontrollably.

When the knots are bleached, they are literally processed with a bleach. If the unit’s hair is not “virgin”, then odds are, it has already been processed with color and/or texture,…..now add another processing step using one of the most harshest chemicals for hair. Naturally growing hair would have a difficult time remaining healthy under such conditions however when it comes to the hair on your unit, it is unable to maintain it’s natural moisture the scalp naturally protects it with. This already causes the hair to be more susceptible to drying and damage. If you bleach ALL of the knots, you will most definitely end up with a very thin unit after a short period of time.

So, yes it looks great today, but how will it look months down the line?

We are all familiar with men who suffer from thinning hair however there are just as many women who suffer from hairloss as men. In fact, it is very common for women as young as their late teens to begin experiencing thinning hair.

The most important way to counteract thinning hair is to uncover the cause or causes. This could vary from low iron levels, insufficient proteins in your diet, hormonal effects or thyroid anomalies, to name a few. Once the cause has properly been identified, you can begin treatmeant to regrow your hair.

Many times, clients are unable to get satisfactory results from their treatments or desire to temporarily conceal their hairloss until their hair has grown back. If surgery is not an option, toupee top pieces or hairpieces are.

If your hairloss is limited to a small section at the crown, a top piece or closure might be enough. They generally have small 2″x3″ bases that can be attached with comb-pins and are available in many colors, styles and lengths. These pieces generally cannot be worn right at the hairline and cannot be parted anywhere.

If your hairloss has affected a larger section at the crown, you might consider a toupee top piece. These top pieces have a much larger base (starting at 5″x7″) and can be attached to the hairline for a more natural look. These pieces are 100% hand-tied so they can be parted anywhere or pulled back and still look completely natural.

These toupee top pieces are also perfect once your hair begins to grow back because the bases are 100% customizable and can be used as “integration” units. An integration unit has a base that looks similar to a fishnet. The hair is hand-tied to the net and the clients hair is gently pulled through the gaps of the unit to blend with the hair on the unit. Integration units are perfect for clients with hair that is thinning but still have enough hair at the crown to style and desire to add more volume.

Despite the devastation women experience with hairloss, it puts many sufferers at ease just knowing there is a reasonable solution right at their fingertips.

For all you weave wearers, we have a new faster way to get that weave done!! It’s called a quick weave.

What you will need:

1. wig cap
2. weaving hair
3. needle and thread or glue

Instead of having to braid several tracks on your scalp, simply secure your hair and place the wig cap on top. Some prefer to just place a single cornrow around the perimeter so they can sew the wig cap around the perimeter. Regardless of how you plan to secure your hair underneath, be sure you are able to also secure the wig cap to prevent it from coming off.

Using your thread or glue, attach the weft onto the wig cap until the cap is completely covered. You will find that it is a bit faster to use a glue gun with glue sticks because it sets faster and is less likely to penetrate through the cap and get on your hair, as a liquid glue would. 

Cut and/or style as desired.

When it comes to fusion extensions, we have seen our share of “bad fusion”. So, here are a few tips to ensure that your fusion extensions are nothing like the above pictured.

DO:

* make sure your stylist is NOT a beginner. Don’t be a guinea pig or you will end up looking a mess!
* make sure there are no visible links showing. There is nothing worse than fusion extensions with visible attachments.
* wear your hair in the style it was indeed to be worn in. Many stylists only focus on visible areas however if you change the style, you might end up exposing some links.
* talk to your stylist and inform them of any styling variations you wish to have so they can be sure that all attachments are hidden no matter how the hair is worn.
* make regular visits to your stylist to replace any tips that have slipped out to prevent empty “pockets”, as pictured above.
* consider other extension applications if you want more styling versatility with no visible attachments.

DON’T

* pull your hair back if it was not intended to be worn that way.
* pull your hair up in a ponytail without FIRST checking to see if you have enough hair at the nape to cover the links in the back.
* attempt to use links (i.e. cold fusion tubes) at the crown. They are too hard to conceal and should only be used in the back.
* attempt to blend kinky hair with a silky straight fusion extensions. Flat iron the hair or go with more textured extensions.

Long synthetic wigs are popular because they require lower maintenance than human hair wigs and the longer length is very versatile. They can be worn for everyday wear, costumes,  to quickly change your style or even to create a more sexy and exotic look. Synthetic wigs are also much cheaper than human hair wigs which makes it even easier to create your new look on a budget.

This face shape has a wide chin and a narrow forehead. When looking for a wig with this face shape, your goal will be to narrow the chin and widen the forehead. Be sure to select those styles with full volume at the sides to balance your face shape. Wear your hair wide and full at the temples, brushed away from the face and up toward the chin to soften and narrow a strong jaw. Your best hair length is chin length or longer.

When the strands are tied onto the lace, knots are tied at the base of the hair to secure them to the lace. When a unit is left with unbleached knots, the knots are more visible than if the knots are bleached. Despite the fact that many people might not know the benefit of bleached knots, everybody wants them.

It is typical to have bleached knots right at the hairline which is about the first inch or so from the hairline back. For more experienced lace wig wearers, they may opt to get bleached knots on the entire crown so they can wear a part anywhere without seeing the knots. This is especially important for wigs with densities less than “very thick”.

Some prefer bleached knots on the entire wig however this is generally not recommended. Once the knots have been bleached, just as with our own hair, the bleach causes the hair to become more susceptible to breakage resulting in the thinning of your unit.

Lace wigs are wigs that are made with a mesh-like lace material in the front, around the perimeter or for the entire cap. Instead of the traditional wig wefts that can be bulky, each hair strand is hand-tied onto this mesh-like lace material. When the strands are hand-tied, this allows you to part you hair anywhere without the worry of exposing any wefts or tracks. In addition, since the lace is so thin, it becomes invisible when placed onto your skin, creating the illusion that the hair strands are actually growing from your own scalp. Lac wigs worn using a glue or tape that will adhere the wig to your hairline which will allow them to be worn for weeks at a time without removal or detection.

Lace wigs are very popular with celebrities (which is why they are often referred to as “Celebrity Lace Wigs”) such as Tyra Banks and Beyonce Knowles because of their ability to be so invisible while allowing them to wear any length, color or texture without having to blend or process their own natural hair.

When it comes to clip-in extensions, we have seen our share of “bad weaves”. So, here are a few tips to ensure that your extensions are nothing like the above pictured.

DO:

* make sure your stylist is NOT a beginner. Don’t be a guinea pig or you will end up looking a mess!
* make sure there are no visible tracks showing. There is nothing worse than a weave with tracks showing.
* wear your hair in the style it was indeed to be worn in. Many stylists only focus on visible areas however if you change the style, you might end up exposing some tracks.
* talk to your stylist and inform them of any styling variations you wish to have so they can be sure that all tracks are hidden no matter how the hair is worn.
* consider other extension applications if you want more styling versatility with no visible attachment.

DON’T

* pull your weave back if it was not intended to be worn that way.
* pull your hair behind your ears ESPECIALLY if you have thin edges!!
* pull your hair up in a ponytail without FIRST checking to see if you have enough hair at the nape to cover the tracks in the back.
* attempt to blend thin edges with a full bodied weave.
* attempt to blend kinky hair with a silky straight weave. Flat iron the hair or go with a more textured weave.

There is no better way to re-light the sparks of your relationship than by buying a costume for the bedroom. Role playing is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to get your “limp” love life jump-started and back on track!

There are several places that offer costumes year around or maybe a sexy outfit from Frederick’s is more of your style. If that is not an option for you, creating a costume wig collection is a great way to change things up in the bedroom at minimal cost. A sophisticated wig is sure to please his conservative nature or something spunky and trendy may appeal to his fun side. Blonde, brunette, red-head or even the color of his favorite sports team will be sure to catch his attention. Short, spiky, curly, silky straight, long and even EXTRA long, there will always be something that will impress him.

Why not dress up together? Do you have a favorite celebrity couple? Do you like a specific time era? Dress up together and make it a night to remember!

There are several shades and tones of blondes out there. So, which one is for you?

When it comes to selecting any shade, the first thing you will need to do is to find out which tone will match your skin best. Using a silver and a gold object, see which shades looks better on you. If the silver is the best fit for you, you should always look for a shade with “ash” or “champagne” in the name. If gold happens to look better on you, you should look for the word “warm” is your color. If either will work, you might be able to get away with a “neutral” tone which is neither too cool nor too warm.

Neutral blondes are very popular and can be easilyachived for women who have naturally darker shades or natural light tones. If you have naturally light, ash hair, toners will be needed to add more golden tones to your hair to achieve a neutral blonde. For natural darker shades, a more thorough toning will be needed to neutralize out all of the golden tones to achieve this neutral tone.

If you are looking for wigs and extensons in this neutral blonde shade, you might go with 16/22, 18/22 or any mixture of an ash and a golden shade together . Just make sure that you view the color chart before making a purchase online and keep in mind that there will always be a variance of shades from human hair and synthetic as well as a variance in your monitor settings.

When it comes to wigs and all of the color combinations, how do you know what looks like what? Boy have we found some answers for you!

When it comes to buying a wig online, it might be difficult to figure out what blend types look best even if you are familiar with the specific colors. So here are a few definitions and descriptions.

MIXED (M)- a mix is literally a 50/50 mix of 2 colors to create it’s own solid looking color. You should not easily be able to see the 2 different colors, rather one solid color.

FROSTED (F,FS)- this generally means that 2-3 colors are blended together mainly at the crown, similar to if you were to go to a salon and get your hair frosted. The blend should be subtle and well blended even if it is a 50/50 frost, however you should still be able to see the 2 colors mixing.

PIANO (P)- a piano mix is a more bold highlighting than “frosted”. It will have much larger chunks of each color to create a bold contrast.

TIPS(T)- this wig will have a 50/50 mix at the roots however the ends will only be the highlighting color. So, if your wig was 16″ long, it would have 14″ of the dark color and 16″ of the highlight color. Again, since the roots are “blended”, it would look like a solid color with lighter ends. This color is more subtle than a two-toned color.

TWO-TONED (TT)- this wig will be one solid color at the roots and another solid color at the tips. The 2 colors are not mixed or merged together, just kept separate to look like someone who has colored their hair and now their roots have grown out completely.

Please note that each blend type will look slightly different from manufacturer to manufacturer. Also, each product will not look exactly the same as another product, even if from the same manufacturer, because one manufacturer may use several different factories for different products. An F4/30 might look one way for this wig but completely different for another wig down the street. Again, even if the same colors are used, some factories use higher amounts of highlighting colors whereas another might prefer to use lower amounts. Be sure to look at their Color Chart so you have a better idea of how it will look.

When it comes to teens, they are always looking for new styles and trends. If your teen wants (or needs) braids, it’s important to offer your teen style and versatility.

When choosing braid styles for your teen, there are a few things to consider: convenience or necessity. Do you and/or your teen want to take a break from the daily styling or is the current condition of the hair forcing you to reduce daily styling? If your teen has dry, brittle and breaking hair, you might be forced to consider braids.

Braids are a great option for damaged hair because they allow your hair to take a break from chemical processing and frequent use of heat and styling, which further damage the hair. In addition, braids are a great way to keep your hair looking great during cold, rainy months or even during hot, humid months, when it becomes more of a challenge to keep the hair from frizzing.

When selecting a braid style for your teen, be sure to care for the edges. Braided styles that pull the edges too tightly WILL result in thin hairlines. Extra care should be taken for individuals, micro braids, or even interlock styles, especially if they are pulled back into a ponytail. If possible, individials should be allowed to hang naturally or loosely pulled back. Micros should be allowed to hang natually and should not be pulled back. Interlocks, with tracks going front to back, will need to be moisturized at the hairline to prevent breakage. Even if they hang naturally, if the tracks are too tight, breakage will still occur.

For added style, try adding small amounts of color or highlights. Loose or braided ends look great straight or with curls. If you want to try loose ends and want an alternate to human hair, try a high heat synthetic so your teen can flat iron or curl the ends. Braided ends can be curled too. Roll the ends and dip them in boiling hot water. When you get tired of the curls, just re-dip them and they are straight again!

If you love braids and you love color, let us show you how you can get the best of both worlds!

Find your theme: Are you looking to match your school colors or favorite team’s colors? Do you just have a favorite color or color blends? Get an idea of what you want to create and this will make selecting your hair colors much easier.

Get the hair: Get as many Jumbo Braids as it will take to get the job done, plus a tad bit more for touch-ups. The last thing you want to do is to run out of hair or not get enough for touch-ups and have to add some other color.

Braid it all in: Braid the color in any pattern you like. Do you prefer one chunk? Highlights? Color blocking (i.e. one color on top while another on the bottom)? The options are endless.

Just as hair extensions, lash extensions add length and volume to your eyelashes.
Synthetic fiber single lashes are individually applied to your lashes, strand by strand, with an adhesive and generally last from a few weeks to a few months.

Once lash extensions are applied, you can easily sleep and even swim in them however it is recommended that you avoid getting oil, even your own natural oils, on the adhesive as it tends to dissolve the glue.

Many times, if your weave is improperly removed, you risk losing a large amount of hair. Here are a few tips to prevent hairloss or damage while removing your weave.

1. Help – Be sure you have someone to help you. Many times, hairloss is caused by accidentally cutting through your tracks.

2. Completely expose the tracks – tie your hair up so the track you will begin on is completely exposed.

3. Carefully cut through the thread – if you have a hard time seeing the thread, use plenty of light and be sure it is thread before cutting.

4. Separate the weft from the track – you might have to cut the thread is several places to remove the weft, depending on how the weave was attached.

5. Spray a braid spray on the hair before taking out the tracks – this will help moisturize the hair and minimize breakage.

If you tend to have a hard time deciphering the thread from the hair, try using a thread that is slightly lighter or darker than your hair color. This makes it much easier to tell the difference and prevent cutting your own hair.

When it comes to pageant time, many parents are looking for a way to add more length, volume and style to their dimpled darlings. Hairpieces are the way to go!

During most pageants, the girls are expected to change clothing for each judging section. When changing clothing, why not change hair too? This helps to add more versatility to your little queen and helps keep the judges on the edges of their seats!

Drawstring hairpieces with wonderful “Shirley Temple” curls are always a popular choice. Once applied, the curls can be tacked up to create a spiraled, volumputous bun or they can be left down to bounce and spring about.

The great thing about drawstring hairpieces is that they can be opened up and attached with comb pins to fit more like a half-wig. This can add more length and volume to hairstyles when an up-do isn’t an option. These pieces can essentually be removed from the package, attached and done (unless you wish to attach the comb pins).

Clip-in extensions are another great option however this technique might require a bit more styling. Once attached, these extensions can be hot curled and styled with the hair or they can be curled prior to attachment. These are perfect for adding length, color and limited volume.

Synthetic hairpieces are so cost effective that you might be able to keep a few on hand to change her look quickly however human hair pieces do allow more styling options. It will all boil down to your personal preference, the amount of money you wish to spend and the amount of time you will have to change her look. Happy Pageanting!!!

Have you heard the term “lace frontal” and found yourself puzzled and scratching your head? Let us help you out.

A lace frontal is a strip of lace, generally 12″ or 13″ wide that is worn from ear to ear, covering your natural hairline. The hair strands are 100% hand-tied onto the lace, just as a lace wig, so the hairline looks very natural. Frontals are perfect for thinning hairlines or crowns, receding hairlines or as a more natural option to blend weaves, as opposed to using the smaller closures.

Lace frontals are generally about 2″ wide from front to back however you can customize your frontal to go back as far as 8″ if you desire more coverage. Just as with a lace wig, you have the option of customizing your hair length, color, texture, density, lace material and lace color.

Lace frontals are applied using an adhesive just at the hairline. The back portion, depending on your preference can either be sewn down to tracks or you can add comb pins to secure them down to your own hair.

There are so many weave techniques out there but which one is the best for your hair?

Well, it looks like a partial weave is the winner on this one. Full weaves tend to cause much more hairloss (especially at the hairline) as well as breakage when they are done incorrectly. In addition, they tend to look very bulky and unnatural in the front unless they are done by a professional.

The best way to grow your hair AND have a natural looking weave is to do a partial weave. Instead of braiding all your hair, your stylist will braid random tracks in your hair and sew the weft to those tracks and leave the rest of your hair out to blend. The only “con” to this weave method is you will have to use hair that matches your texture almost perfectly. Unfortunately, if you usually wear “silky straight” and your hair is very coarse, there might be some “blending” issues. In this case, you might need to find a more coarse texture (i.e. “yaki perm” which looks like blow-dried African American hair) and flatiron both yours and the weaving hair. The end result will look more natural than the “silky straight”.

With all of the different color options out there, how do you know which color is perfect for you?

When it comes to selecting a hair color (for your own hair or for extensions), you first need to know which tone to look for. The best way to find out which tone best suits you, use a silver object and a gold object, hold each tone up to your face and determine which looks best on you.

Silver: Look for tones that are more ash or cool
Gold:  Look for tones that are golden or warm

Again, if you are still unsure about which color to choose, try blending a few colors that belong to the same tone family. Like the image above, if your hair is similar to a strawberry color, add golden blonde (caramel) highlights but tone it down with some auburn low lights. If you love color, you can add two highlight tones from the same family.

When it comes to selecting colors for your extensions,  the same process is used. For subtle variances, simply select your extensions to be a shade lighter than your natural color. If you are blending your own hair, it will look like your ends are gently sun-kissed.

For those who are pretty familiar with hair color charts for extensions and wigs, here are a few color combinations that tend to blend well and are popular color blends:

DARK:
1B/12
1B/27
1B/30
2/12
4/27
4/30
4/27/30

REDS:
30/33
130/33
27/30
27/33
27/30/33 (pictured above)

BLONDES:
14/24
16/22
18/22
27/613

Now that you have gotten your perfect wig, you will need to be sure that you properly care for your investment.

Caring for your new synthetic wig and keeping it in good condition is pretty easy as long as you have all of the needed products.

To care for your wig, you will need a wig brush, wig comb, wig shampoo, wig conditioner and any other wig styling products.

When styling your wig, be sure your wig brush or wig comb does not come into contact with the wefts at the cap. This can loosen the weft and cause the hair to shed uncontrollably. If your wig is tangled, start from the ends, not at the top and try straying on a wig conditioner to help remove the tangles.

When storing your wig, be sure to place it on a wig stand in a closed area, such as a closet. For long term storing, you might consider placing the wig back in it’s original plastic bag to keep it free from dust and debris.

Your wig should be washed every 12-15 wears however if you keep your own hair underneath clean or wear a wig cap, your wig will need washing less often.

If your synthetic wig is too shiny when first purchased, simply add some baby powder to the wig and shake the remaining  loose powder off.

When wearing your wig while cooking, be careful when opening hot ovens and when around high temperatures as this can melt the synthetic fibers and ruin your wig.

There are several shades and tones of blondes out there. So, which one is for you?

When it comes to selecting any shade, the first thing you will need to do is to find out which tone will match your skin best. Using a silver and a gold object, see which shades looks better on you. If the silver is the best fit for you, you should always look for a shade with “ash” or “champagne” in the name. If gold happens to look better on you, you should look for the word “warm” is your color. If either will work, you might be able to get away with a “neutral” tone which is neither too cool nor too warm.

Golden blondes are very popular for women who have naturally darker shades. This is because once the dark shade is stripped away, you are left with brassy tones. Even with toners, you can still be left with very golden tones, which happen to look amazing, especially during the summer months. If you have naturally light hair, toners will be needed to add more golden tones to your hair to achieve a golden blonde.

If you are looking for wigs and extensons in this golden blonde shade, you might go with 10, 12, 14, 24 or 27. Just make sure that you view the color chart before making a purchase online and keep in mind that there will always be a variance of shades from human hair and synthetic as well as a variance in your monitor settings.

There are several shades and tones of blondes out there. So, which one is for you?

When it comes to selecting any shade, the first thing you will need to do is to find out which tone will match your skin best. Using a silver and a gold object, see which shades looks better on you. If the silver is the best fit for you, you should always look for a shade with “ash” or “champagne” in the name. If gold happens to look better on you, you should look for the word “warm” is your color. If either will work, you might be able to get away with a “neutral” tone which is neither too cool nor too warm.

In order to obtain an ash blonde, you will need to use a toner to remove all the yellow and neutral tones from your hair. If you have naturally dark shades, you will need to agressively use the toners to remove ALL of the brassy tones from you hair to achieve this shade.

If you are looking for extensions or wigs in an ash blonde shade, you might consider an 18, 22 or a 613A if you prefer more of a platinum blonde shade. Just make sure that you view the color chart before making a purchase online and keep in mind that there will always be a variance of shades from human hair and synthetic as well as a variance in your monitor settings.

We are all pretty familiar with fusion extensions and we have all heard that they are more popular in the white community but what about fusion extensions and black hair?

Fusion extensions can actually be great on black hair as long as the proper application technique is used and they are properly maintained and removed. Fusion extensions cannot be worn on black hair as long as it can on white hair (3-6 months) because too much new growth will cause the virgin hair to mat and dread together causing massive hair breakage when the extensions are removed. We suggest that fusion is only worn for a period of time that is appropriate based on how quickly your hair grows.

Due to the increased breakage associated with the use of fusion glues, we do not recommend this fusion technique be used on black hair. Instead, we recommend the use of silicon fusion tubes and no heat. The silicon fusion tubes have a soft silicon layer inside the tubes which cushion the hair to further help prevent breakage.

Another set-back is that all of the fusion extensions currently offered only come in “silky straight” textures, not “yaki”. If you are looking into fusion extensions for black hair, you might consider custom I-tipped extensions. If applied and removed properly, they can be used several times.

While vacationing at your favorite beach destination, braids and beads are the way to go! Many beach vendors will be more than happy to braid your hair and add beads for a good price. Not only are they a great way to look great while on vacation however they can also reduce the amount of time you would normally spend styling your hair while on vacation.

Most vendors will offer to show you images of prior clients to give you an idea of the different looks and bead color combinations however the most common style will be cornrow braids in the front with individual braids in the back. If you plan ahead, you might even consider getting your hair braided before you leave so you have a larger choice of styles to select from, you can add extensions and you can choose from different types or colors of beads than what the beach vendors might offer.

Colorful eyelashes are perfect for costumes but is that all? No way!!

Colorful eyelashes are not only perfect for costumes but also for other holidays, year-round.

New Years – silver or gold will help you brighten your New Year’s celebration
Valentine’s Day – pink or red eyelashes are sure to add a spark.
St. Patrick’s Day – some green lashes are sure to keep the pinches at bay
Easter – any pastel lashes would please the little ones
July 4th – red, white or blue lashes will help celebrate independence
Halloween – any coordinating lashes will make your costume come alive!
Christmas – white, red, green, silver or gold will help you to celebrate the holidays

Colorful lashes are also perfect to go with any colorful wig you might have for any occasion. And don’t forget ladies, colorful lashes to match your lingerie are sure to bring a smile to your husband’s face.

When it comes to wigs, many want to know if they can create a custom cut or style. Absolutely!

Most wigs come in the more popular cuts and styles however if you desire to have a more custom look, you can opt to have your wig custom styled. If your wig is not flattering to your specific face shape, again, having your wig styled is the perfect option.

Unless you are familiar with cutting hair, we suggest you have a professional stylist do the job. Be sure to bring an image of your desired style and make sure the wig is only cut while you are wearing it. This ensures that it is styled according to your face shape.

Have your stylist make the cut longer than your desired length and slowly reduce the additional length to prevent it from being cut too short. Be sure to frequently look in the mirror to ensure your stylist is cutting/styling your wig correctly.

It is suggested that you wash your hairpiece, closure or frontal (human or synthetic), every 10-15 wears, depending on the climate and your lifestyle.  Before washing your hairpiece, using a wig brush, gently remove all tangles.

Using a large bowl or sink, run some cold water and add a small amount (about 1 tbsp) of regular shampoo as the water is running. Place the hairpiece in the water and gently move the piece around using your fingers, for a few minutes. Let the hairpiece soak in the water for about 5 minutes.

Drain the soapy water and refill bowl or sink with clean cold water. Repeat this process until the water and hairpiece are clear of all soap. Using the wig brush or a comb, gently remove any tangles again.

Drain the clear water and blot the wig dry. Allow your hairpiece to completely dry by turning it inside-out and laying it flat.

- DO NOT wring out your hairpiece.
- Do not agitate your hairpiece in the water.
- Do not allow synthetic hairpieces to dry by the heater or in the sun.

If you like colored eyelashes, you will just love feather eyelashes!

Feather eyelashes are regular eyelashes with colored feathers on the outer edges. They have a wonderfully elegant appeal to them and are a favorite for showgirls, dancers and performers. Not a dancer or performer? No worries, these feather eyelashes are also perfect for costumes and for dress up.

Now that summer is right around the corner, braids are the hottest trend in hair styles for African American women and children. Long, short, straight, curled, big and small, braids have always been and will remain one of the most popular summer trends.

When it comes to braiding styles, consider how much maintenance you want to give. If you like styling flexibility, you might consider micros or tree braids using human hairor a futura high heat synthetic. For styles with minimal maintenance, you might consider micros or any other braid style that is braided all the way to the ends.

If braiding time is a concern, try an interlock style which only takes a fraction of the time to do and lasts just as long if not longer. Again, styles using loose hair tend to require more maintenance than styles using braided hair.

For children, braids and/or cornrows with beads are always the best choice. Braids are a great way to keep hair looking neat all summer long while also giving it a break from the daily styling which can be very damaging. When the braids are removed, the new “length” will be much appreciated.

When it starts to warm up, we all begin to worry about how to ensure that our kids’ hair stays healthy despite all the trips to the pool. Well, here are a few tips…

No matter what hair type or ethnic background, the key to healthy hair is proper moisturization. With daily swimming and washing, the best of hair is even bound to suffer. So, here’s what you can do!

1. BEFORE visiting your pool, spray some leave-in conditioner in the hair. This will help coat the hair and prevent it from getting too exposed to the chlorine and sun.

2. After you leave the pool, WASH THE HAIR. It is very important to wash out all the chlorine that was in the hair.

3. Don’t forget the conditioner!! After the hair has been washed and rinsed thoroughly, squeeze out all of the remaining water and apply the conditioner. If in the shower, this is when the kids should wash up, wash down, or “shower” so the conditioner can absorb. Before rinsing the conditioner, turn the water to a luke warm or cool temperature, NOT HOT! Rinse the conditioner.

4. Spray a leave-in conditioner as the hair is drying. If you begin to notice the hair feeling like hay after a few days, it might be because of the “panthenol”. Panthenol is an ingredient in shampoos, conditioners and leave-ins. It is derived from a “B” vitamin and it’s job is to coat/thicken and protect your hair strands (thus the brand “Pantene”). If they get a build-up, do a hot oil treatment weekly (olive oil with a shower cap).

For more ethnic textures, you will need to add moisture back to the hair, especially if the hair has been permed. If the hair is in braids, simply spray a generous amount of braid spray on the braids after each and every washing.

As you quickly approach your wedding day, you think to yourself, “How can I style my hair without paying an arm and a leg!?”. Well, once again, we have found some answers…

Bridal buns are a great way to style the hair on your special day, especially in warmer weather. No worries about drooping curls, the frizzies or out of place hairs. Now, you can create an updo that looks like it was done by a high-end stylist for under $20! Here’s how:

1. Find a hairpiece that has loose curls. Spirals are generally the curl of choice. NOTE: The fuller and longer the hairpiece, the bigger your bun will be. For smaller buns, try selecting a shorter hairpiece.

2.  Be sure to color match to your roots! There is nothing worse than having a hairpiece that is completely wrong in color, especially on your wedding day. If you plan to have a larger bun, less of your hair will show so you will have much more flexibility when it comes to shades, highlights and lowlights.

3. Once you have attached the hairpiece, tack up the ends with bobby-pins and create a bun. Be sure that you are tacking up the ends in an OUTWARD direction (attach the ends to your own hair not the hairpiece). This will give you a much fuller and wider bun, as pictured.

4. Using artificial flowers/roses and a glue gun, attach the bottoms of the flowers to the bended tips of the bobby-pins. Be sure to wait until the glue has COMPLETELY DRIED before applying them to your hair.

5. Add the flower pins to your bun.

Many times we think “more is better” however when it comes to lace wigs, the last thing you want is a wig that is too thick for your preference. If you have a naturally thin or normal hair volume, you might find that you will have to get a custom unit made that will allow you to customize your density and go with a lower density lace wig.

Most custom and stock lace wigs come with 85-100% density (depending on where you purchase it). Despite the fact that this density tends to be appropriate for many people, there are quite a few shoppers who would like something more natural-looking for them. So what are your options:

#1: find a store that offers 100% customizable units that will allow you to choose a lower density

#2: find a store that offers Chinese Remy human hair as it tends to not get as “fluffy” as Indian Remy human hair

#3: try to stick with straighter textures instead of wavy or curly. The added texture will only add additional volume to the  hair.

#4: whatever you do, DO NOT attempt to remove the hair or knots from your unit as you risk ripping the lace and causing irreparable damage.

So, you have a dance team and you are looking to create a more “uniform” look when it comes to their hair. What do you do?? We have found some answers!

When it comes to looking for hairstyles for your girls, you might find that hairpieces provide a quick solution. Here are a few tips to help get your girls looking great:

1. Attachment – Drawstring hairpieces prove to be very secure, especially if your dance team with be performing tricks and flips. Jawclips and banana clips work well too, however if they are not properly secured and become loose during the performance, it could prove to be a bit embarrassing. (Yikes!)

2. Style – Curly, straight, short or long, whatever you are looking for, be sure the piece is available in a range of colors to ensure all of your girls are wearing the same piece.

3. Color – When color matching, it is important to get the color as close as possible but a perfect match may be impossible. If a color ring is available, try to use it when matching colors. Rule of thumb is to order a similar shade or one that is slightly lighter than the cheerleader’s hair however there are a few exceptions to this rule:
     a. When matching colors, be sure to account for styling products that might be used on the cheerleader’s hair. If you plan to use hairspray, the piece will need to be ordered to match the WET ROOTS of hair, which is generally several shades DARKER than the ends.
     b. When ordering curly hairpieces, gel may be used to hold the curls in place resulting in the hairpiece appearing darker than the color ring. These hairpieces may need to be ordered LIGHTER than the original shade.
     c. Be sure to include 1-2 alternate color choices in case they are out of stock of a specific shade. This will prevent order processing delays or having girls with no pieces to wear come competition time.

4. Ordering – When ordering, give the order ample time to arrive AND make any adjustments to shades before the performance. Companies get very frustrated when they are called and harassed several times a day from choreographers and parents of the dancers because they did not plan ahead.

Are you looking for a way to add more color to your hair without any long term commitments? Well, we’ve got a quick and easy solution for you.Colored human hair for weaving!!

This 100% human hair is available in many colors such as green, dark blue, hot pink, purple, red and burgundy as well as an entire range of blacks, browns, blondes, reds, mixes and even grey “salt and pepper” shades. Whether you are looking for something as short as 8” or as long as 20“, this is the best type of hair you can buy on a budget while creating a custom look for the new you.

For short styles, you can create colorful bangs or a funky, colored mohawk or if you have longer hair, you can add colored highlights, streaks or add it to the nape for a colored stacked look.

Colored weaving extensions are perfect for trendy teens, team fanatics, models, trend setters, etc. No matter how you use them, these colors are sure to help you stand out and make a bold, “bright” statement.

If you have a heart shaped face, your face  shape has a wide brow, full and/or prominent cheekbones with a narrow chin. When looking for a wig with this face shape, your goal will be to minimize forehead width and create a wider, fuller jaw effect. Wear a side part with soft three-quarter bangs swept over one side to balance your forehead width. A medium length to mid-neck is your best look. Fullness at the bottom, with hair layered and curled forward onto the cheeks gives you the appearance of wide chin. Curl or loose waves, shaped from the ears down, add width and fullness to your chin.

When customizing your synthetic lace wig, there are a few things to consider when choosing a hair texture. Straight, wavy or curly?

Despite the fact that you can customize any hair texture for your synthetic lace wig, we do not recommend very wavy or curly textures. This will result in too much tangling and will reduce the life of your unit.

Straight textures tend to last the longest when it comes to synthetic lace wigs simply because there are no waves or curls to manage.

Hair loss is commonly associated with hot fusion techniques however there is indeed a way to help minimize the problem,…using larger sections.

Most fusion clients opt to go with fusion extensions to not only add length to their hair but also volume. Some stylists get so involved with pleasing the client and trying to help them obtain the look they want that they may fail to think long-term…….about hair loss.

For clients who have very thin hair and want to add more volume, fusion extensions might not be the best solution. In order to obtain the additional volume, smaller hair sections are used to attach larger extension sections.  During styling, the added weight and the pulling can lead to hair loss. After normal shedding occurs , this leaves even fewer strands to anchor the extension, ultimately leading to lost strands.

The problem is obviously that the sections of hair are too small. In order to prevent (or minimize) hair loss, larger sections of hair should be used. As you get to the crown, smaller sections can be used to prevent the bonds from being exposed or noticed. Also, if your hair is short, smaller sections will need to be used to help blend the extensions to your hair. If you have short AND thin hair, you might want to wait until your hair grows out before attempting fusion extensions.

Wigs are becoming more and more popluar in today’s society. Some wear wigs for medical reasons however many wear wigs because of their versatility. So now that you have gotten your wig collection, how do your properly store your wig?

Once you remove your wig, place it on a wig stand. This will help keep the hair in place. Be sure to store your wig in an open and clean area, free from direct sunlight, heat, dust, pets and children.

If you plan to store it for an extended amount of time, the wig should be folded in half, ear to ear, parted in the center, and placed in it’s original plastic packaging. If your wig does not have a center part, you should place a piece of crumbled gift tissue at the crown of the wig to help keep it’s shape during storage.

If you plan to travel with your wig, be sure to store it in a container where it cannot be crushed as this might cause it to lose it’s shape or style.

We have all heard of lace front wigs but what the heck is a silk lace front wig?!

A silk lace front wig is a standard lace front wig with a small piece of silk material at the crown. The hairs are injected into a pure Chinese silk material. Since the hairs are injected and not knotted or tied, the result is a completely natural-looking, knot free crown.

Silk lace front wigs are perfect for those who prefer wearing a part in their unit. With the finer laces, it was virtually impossible to part your hair without seeing your hair underneath or having to wear a wig cap under the lace wig.

Thin skin was thought to be a great alternative because no knots were visible however it was very difficult to blend at the hairline and most importantly, thin skin is NOT breathable. Silk lace is proving to be the best of both worlds with a minimal additional charge.

During the summertime, braids and beads are a common style for our kids. They are quick to do and can last for weeks if properly taken care of. This is a huge benefit especially for working moms who have kids that enjoy swimming in the summer.

Braids can be done using the child’s natural hair or extensions can be used. The extensions can not only add length but can add more versatility to the types of styles created and also help keep the braids a bit longer.

Wooden or plastic beads are a wonderful accessory to finish these braided styles. They add more “flare” as well as color to your little one’s braids.

As Easter nears, many churches host Easter performances. This is a great opportunity to utilize costume wigs. A great costume wig will assist the performers to transition into their roles better which will help them deliver a more believable performance.

For those of you who are new to wigs, let us show you how you can wear a wig without it looking like you have on a wig.

Once you have picked out your perfect wig, before putting it on, be sure your hair is out of the way. If you have long hair, pin it up as close to your scalp as possible. For shorter hair, just comb it back.

Once you have pinned your hair back, ensuring it is flat, you will need to cover it using a wig cap. If you don’t have a wig cap, simply cut the foot off of an old pair of panyhose and use it to cover your hair. This will help to hold your hair down and keep your wig secure however if you wish to skip this step, that is fine.

Take your wig and align the front with the front of your forehead. Using both of your hands, stretch the cap open and place the wig on your head starting in the front and pull the back down. If you need to make any minor adjustments, just gently pull on the wig to make sure it is on properly.

Using a wig comb or wig brush, style the wig. If you need to move the wig slightly forward or backwards, gently pull on the cap to make the final adjustment.

Whether you are still considering them or have already gotten them, here are some lash extension facts that you may find to be very helpful.

What are lash extensions?
Lash extensions are a great way to extend and thicken your natural lashes. They are also a convenient alternative to wearing mascara on a daily basis. Unlike false lashes, they look 100% natural and do not require the nightly removal of lash sets. Since each lash is individually attached to a single lash strand, the result looks so natural, it is even difficult to detect close up!

Can lash extensions harm or damage your own natural lashes?
No. When applied and cared for correctly, lash extensions will still allow your lashes to continue to grow naturally.

How long do the extensions last?
The length of time lash extensions can be worn greatly depends on the type of adhesive used. Most adhesives are rubber based and will eventually dissolve from your natural oils within a couple of weeks. “Permanent” extensions are applied using a much stronger adhesive and tend to last much longer however no matter which adhesive used, with proper maintenance, lash extensions can be worn indefinitely.

Can mascara be worn on lash extensions?
Mascara is generally not needed with lash extensions however if you wish to wear a mascara, be sure it is water-soluble and not waterproof. Waterproof mascara tends to minimize the life of your lashes. Avoid trying to remove “clumps” after the mascara has dried because this will only cause the extensions AND YOUR LASHES to be pulled out!

Which is better? Human or synthetic lashes?
Synthetic fiber seems to be the fiber of choice because human hair lashes are prone to becoming dry and breaking off. Human hair lashes are indeed available on the market however they are far more expensive, require more care and will not last as long as synthetic lashes will.

How do you take care of lash extensions?
We recommend that you wash your face at least twice a day to prevent your lashes from becoming too oily. Again, oil will dissolve most adhesives. When drying your face, we suggest that you blot your face with a towel instead of wiping as this will cause the lashes, and sometimes yours too, to fall out.

So, you just got your hair done and you are looking like a million bucks,..and then the shedding starts. HELP!!

First of all, shedding is something that should be considered BEFORE the interlock is even added to your hair. If you are planning on using very straight micro braids (which tend to shed more than curly or wavy braids), you will have to wet the bend in the braid before it is applied. This will help the braid become more flexible and allow the loop and knot to set, minimizing the shedding later.

For braids that are more resistant to this process, we suggest that you bend the hair in half (generally right where the manufacturer places their rubberband). Place your own rubber-band right around the bend so the hair tip looks like a “U”. Dip the tip into boiling hot water for a few seconds and remove.

Once the hair has cooled and you remove your rubber-band, the hair will already have a “U” shaped bend. This will help the loop and knot hold better, thus less shedding.

Of course, there is always glue if you prefer this method however when you remove the interlock, it may be more time consuming.

Anytime you wash your braids, you need to pay close attention to your scalp by trying to remove any build up of natural oils.

tip #1: add some of your regular shampoo to a spray bottle and dilute it with water!! This will make it much easier to remove the scalp buildup.

tip #2: do not massage your scalp too much. This will only loosen your hair from you braids and make them look “fuzzy”. Gently massage your scalp just enough to loosen the oils that are being dissolved with the shampoo.

If you have cornrows, you might consider using a du-rag to minimize frizzing as your hair dries. For regular braids or interlock, you will need to make sure they are completely dry before putting them in a ponytail or bun to prevent smelly braids. For braids that have loose ends, you will have to add some additional product to the ends to prevent them from turning into a lion’s mane.

So, you have a team of cheerleaders and you are looking to create a more “uniform” look when it comes to their hair. What do you do?? We have found some answers!

When it comes to looking for hairstyles for your girls, you might find that hairpieces provide a quick solution. Here are a few tips to help get your girls looking great:

1. Attachment – Drawstring hairpieces prove to be very secure, especially if your cheer team with be performing jumps and flips. Jawclips and banana clips work well too, however if they are not properly secured and become loose during the performance, it could prove to be a bit embarrasing. (Yikes!)

2. Style – Curly, straight, short or long, whatever you are looking for, be sure the piece is available in a range of colors to ensure all of your girls are wearing the same piece.

3. Color – When color matching, it is important to get the color as close as possible but a perfect match may be impossible. If a color ring is available, try to use it when matching colors. Rule of thumb is to order a similar shade or one that is slightly ligher than the cheerleader’s hair however there are a few exceptions to this rule:
     a. When matching colors, be sure to account for styling products that might be used on the cheerleader’s hair. If you plan to use hairspray, the piece will need to be ordered to match the WET ROOTS of hair, which is generally several shades DARKER than the ends.
     b. When ordering curly hairpieces, gel may be used to hold the curls in place resulting in the hairpiece appearing darker than the color ring. These hairpieces may need to be ordered LIGHTER than the original shade.
     c. Be sure to include 1-2 alternate color choices in case they are out of stock of a specific shade. This will prevent order processing delays or having girls with no pieces to wear come competition time.

4. Ordering – When ordering, give the order ample time to arrive AND make any adjustments to shades before the performance. Companies get very frustrated when they are called and harassed several times a day from coaches and parents of cheerleaders because they did not plan ahead.

Lace wigs are, by far, the most popular type of wig available. Once silk became available, it was yet another reason to continue the craze but many still want to know what it is and how it is used.

When “Silk” was added to lace wigs, it resolved many of the concerns of lace wig wearers when it came to better concealing their natural hair color from under the ultra fine lace on the unit’s base. No matter how dark their own natural hair, it could not be seen through the silk. In addition, there was no need to bleach the knots beyond the hairline because the hairs were actually injected “through” the silk, not tied. The result was a much more natural looking unit.

The process actually involves 2 steps, instead of the normal 1 step process. The silk is only applied to the crown (approx 5″x5″). The hairs are not only 100% hand-tied but also injected through this piece of silk material. The end result looks identical to natural hair growing from your scalp that is 100% breathable, unlike thin skin.

For those of you who wear toupees, we are sure you have heard of the term but what are silk toupees?

Silk toupees are standard toupees that have a small piece of silk just at the crown of the unit.

The hair strands are injected into pure Chinese silk, which is placed just at the crown of a lace wig. Since the hairs are injected and not knotted or tied, the result is a more natural, knot-free unit.

Silk toupees are perfect for those who prefer wearing a part in their unit. With the finer laces, it was virtually impossible to part your hair without seeing your hair underneath.

Thin skin was thought to be a great alternative because no knots were visible however it was very difficult to blend at the hairline and most importantly, thin skin is NOT breathable. Silk lace is proving to be the best of both worlds with a minimal additional charge.