by Almost everyone wants to have a full head of hair. An online search for hair loss remedies will tell you how many curious minds want to resort to every trick in the universe to achieve voluminous hair. If your natural hair is thin or brittle, you may be looking for camouflage options. The list can include everything from full or partial wigs to hair extensions and hair transplants. For some, wigs might be a bit much. Others might find getting a hair transplant intimidating. Hair extensions may seem like a good idea to improve hair length and volume. But use them with caution – hair extensions have some side effects.
What are hair extensions?
Hair extensions are strands of artificial or natural hair that are added to a person’s existing hair to enhance its length, volume or style, explains Dr Vijay Singhal, senior consultant in dermatology at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute in New Delhi. You can choose anything from clip-in extensions to adhesive extensions to sew-in and glue-in extensions.
What is the connection between hair extensions and hair loss?
A 2016 study published by the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology found that constant tension of hair extensions on natural hair can lead to hair loss. The expert tells Health Shots that hair extensions themselves do not directly cause hair loss. However, improper installation, constant tension, or poor maintenance can potentially lead to hair breakage or damage. It is therefore crucial to ensure proper application and maintenance to minimize the risk of damage.
What are common side effects of hair extensions?
You are aware of the dangers associated with hair extensions. Some of them are:
1. Hair breakage
When hair extensions are applied incorrectly or are too heavy, they can strain your natural hair and cause breakage.
2. Scalp irritation
Tight installations of hair extensions can cause discomfort or irritate your scalp, says the expert.
3. Hair loss
Constant tension of hair extensions can pull on the hair follicles, which will ultimately lead to hair loss.
4. Infections
Hygiene is always important for good health. When it comes to hygiene while applying hair extensions, one must be careful otherwise it will lead to scalp infections.
5. Allergic reactions
Some people may react to adhesives or materials used in hair extensions, especially those made from synthetic rather than natural hair.
Also read: The good, the bad and the ugly side of hair extensions
Tips to Avoid Hair Damage When Using Hair Extensions
If you still want to try hair extensions, you can follow these tips:
• Choose reputable brands and materials to minimize stress on natural hair.
• Have extensions applied by a certified stylist to ensure proper technique and tension.
• Avoid continuous use of hair extensions to give your mane periods of rest.
• Clean and condition the hair and scalp regularly to prevent any type of infection.
• Reduce styling your hair with heat and use heat protection products for the sake of your hair health.
• Do not take a hairbrush to detangle your hair extensions. Instead, use your fingers gently.
• Use hair care products recommended by your stylist and be gentle when applying shampoo and washing.
• Make a low, loose ponytail before bed to reduce the risk of knots and tangling of hair extensions.
It is very important to take care of your hair extensions because unlike your own hair, they do not receive the necessary nutrition from your scalp. So you should be gentle with hair extensions and treat them with love and care, even if it is not your own hair.
