The secret to many of the most stunning celebrity hair looks? Extensions.
Snooki’s Great Lengths Extensions by Luis Miller
And we’re not just referring to the luxurious, long locks that are typically associated with them: Today, extensions are even used on bobs and – lately – for gray hair as well. If you’re looking to get extensions done at a hair salon, Fabio Scalia has several stylists, at both the Soho and Brooklyn Heights locations, who are trained in Great-Lengths Hair Extensions. Great Lengths is a brand that originated in Rome, but quickly gained popularity in the USA due to their craftsmanship and application. They choose only the finest Indian human hair, which makes for the most natural looking extensions once applied. And, the hair is double drawn, which means that there is the same thickness from root to tip, which gives the hair a thicker appearance.
How do hair extensions work? There are two different application methods for these extensions: pre-bonded keratin and tapes.
Keratin Bonds by Luis Miller in Soho
Pre-bonded Keratin
Pre-bonded keratin has a tip of keratin, which we produce naturally in our hair follicles, and is bonded to the root of your hair. Keratin acts the way that our natural hair does. For example, when hair is wet it expands and then contracts as it dries. Pre-bonded keratin extensions will maintain the integrity of your hair since the application allows the root to move freely. It is seamless and undetectable with your hair up because of the allowance of natural movement. To apply, your Great Lengths specialist will take a small bundle of extension hair and attach it to the same amount of your own natural hair through the root. This makes the application completely customizable. Thickening, lengthening, and adding highlights/lowlights (without dyeing your own hair) is what these extensions can be used for. These extensions last for 3-5 months.
Tapes
The hair used for the tape extensions is the same as in the pre-bonded keratin application, but the main difference is going to be application. Ultra-thin adhesive holds together the hair extension. The extensions are then applied to your root. This type of extension application can be used for length and thickness. Tapes will last for 4-7 weeks before needing to get them re-applied to ensure a natural appearance, but the tapes and hair themselves can be used up to three times.
Which should you choose?
Both options are customizable to your specific hair, but there are key notes when choosing an application for your needs.
Before and After Extensions by Luis Miller
Keratin bonds are better for someone who does not want to be in the salon as often; they last longer than the tapes before needing a re-application. They are also great for someone who wants more freedom in the styling of their hair. This is because updos and ponytails are more concealed with keratin bonds. Because of this, keratin bonds are a bit less maintenance because they act as human hair does. This allows you to not worry as much about the products you place on your hair, like conditioners and oil.
In contrast to that, tapes typically do not have as strong of a hold; you should be more mindful with adding conditioners/oils because the tape may become loosened and slip off. Don’t let that scare you, though! Tapes are ideal for clients who have thinner hair and who are looking for thickness. Because the tape is ultra thin and lays flat on the head, it provides a seamless look. This means no accidental peeking if the hair on top moves around and is fine/see-through.
If you need help choosing which extension fit is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to either the Soho or Brooklyn location of Fabio Scalia Salons. We can book you a complimentary consultation with one of our Great-Lengths extension specialists and you’ll be walking out with the hair of your dreams in no time!