Fake Hair Options

Wigs

Wigs make the boldest statement of all and can really change your whole look. Experiment not only with length and texture changes, but color changes as well. Since hair color has such an impact, you might find that you will want to adjust your makeup colors to suit the new look as well. Unless you will be wearing it every day, skip the expense of human hair and go for a synthetic wig. Wigs come in sizes, and it's important to take the time to get the right fit.

Extensions

Jennifer Lopez, Salma Hayek, and Patricia Velasquez have all used extensions to change their look. Extensions can be done in various ways. Select your method and hair type (synthetic or human) based on how much you are willing to spend and how long you want the extensions to last. Hair can be purchased at beauty supply stores. If you are going to a salon to do this, check with your stylist about whether you should buy the hair first and what method they recommend. Some stylists recommend certain methods of application over others.

Bonding

This process involves taking very small sections of your hair and "bonding" bundles of hair onto your own at the root with a special wax-based glue that fuses yours and the artificial hair. You do need to use a special comb for bonded hair, but beyond that it can be washed and styled as usual. A special remover is needed to dissolve the wax-based glue and take off the extensions. Done properly, this method can last up to three months. Because of the longevity, it is best to get human hair in a color that complements your own.

Gluing

A more temporary method - it lasts as long as you can stand not to wash your hair-this option requires that you glue lengths of extensions directly onto your scalp. Careful placement at the sides and back and even around the crown make it effective for adding new length and color to your hair. Due to the procedure's temporary nature, artificial hair makes more sense. A special glue remover is required to take out the extensions.

Clips

The best option for a fun night out. Small wefts of hair are secured in your hair near the scalp using clips with teeth that anchor the extensions to the shaft. The wefts of hair are very small, so they can be placed almost anywhere on the head, as long as you are careful to blend it with your natural hair. Since it's so temporary, have fun by experimenting with color and texture.

Braiding

Extensions can also be braided into the hair. Tiny sections of your hair (usually at the back and the sides, where your natural hair can conceal the braids) are used to braid in sections of extensions. The braid is then sewn with special thread to secure the hair to yours. Braiding, like bonding, lasts up to three months.

Other types of braid extensions begin at the scalp and are placed allover the head. These can be an excellent option for growing out hair that has been relaxed, since the mixed texture (relaxed and natural) can make the hair prone to breakage. Braid-sheen oil keeps braids shiny and healthy.

Falls

These sections of hair attached to a base work like half-wigs. The placement of the base on the head, as well as the length of the fall, are what determine the look. Falls are mostly used for adding length or fullness, making them the best options for evenings or special occasions. Again, since it will probably only be used occasionally, go for synthetic over human hair. Most falls come with comb attachments, but you will probably need to anchor the piece more securely with additional bobby pins.

Weave

This is an all-day process that can completely change your look. A stylist braids your entire head (with the exception of hair along the hairline, which is left alone so the weave can blend) into a cornrow. Hair is then sewn onto the cornrow. Removal of the weave involves simply cutting the strings that were sewn.

Weaves are expensive, and with good reason: The labor involved is intensive, and the hair used should be human hair. Purchase hair in a texture that matches how you will be wearing yours, in a color that will blend at the hairline.

Try on a new hairstyle now.