Preventing Traction Alopecia From Hair Extensions
Preventing Traction Alopecia: The Essential Guide to Hair Extension Care
Introduction:
Hair extensions can be a fantastic way to enhance your natural hair, adding length and volume. However, improper use and maintenance of hair extensions can lead to a condition called traction alopecia. In this blog post, we will explore the causes of traction alopecia, provide tips on caring for your hair extensions, and offer advice on preventing this common issue.
Section 1: Understanding Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss caused by excessive tension and pulling on the hair follicles. When hair extensions are improperly applied or worn for extended periods, they can cause damage to the hair roots, leading to thinning and even permanent hair loss. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of traction alopecia is crucial for early intervention. This is why it is imperative to choose a salon that offers check-ins, our first check-in is within two weeks of your initial installation. At this point, we can ensure you are properly brushing your hair extensions, evaluate your hair and scalp, and rectify any issues that you may have.
Section 2: Choosing Professional Hair Extensions & Technique
One of the primary causes of traction alopecia is the use of cheap, low-quality hair extensions. Investing in professional, high-quality extensions is essential for minimizing the risk of hair damage. Look for extensions that are made from natural hair and applied by experienced professionals who understand the importance of proper installation techniques.
Always have your hair extensions removed by a licensed professional with years of experience. Removing hair extensions improperly is a sure way to create damage.
The proper hair extensions for you are determined at a free consultation, hair extensions are not one size fits all, if you hair is thin then there may be another technique that is better suited for you. Sew-in hair extensions tend to create the most tension if too much weight is applied to the specific row of your hair. Sew-in; braided hair application or beaded rows are best suited to hair with dense hair follicles.
1) We evaluate your hair strength to determine which extensions may work best for your hair.
2) Individual strands allow us to change sizes, weight, and sectioning of your hair extensions creating custom hair extensions.
3) When hair is fine, it is best to select a method of hair extensions that are applied at least 1/4” away from your scalp, this will allow them to flow easily without extra tensions
4) The Veila Pull-Thru technique is applied to fine & medium-density hair, they are supported by your own hair without glue or taping.
5) Improperly installed hair extensions; too close to your scalp, unclean sections, can lead to pulling on your hair, and hair crossovers. A crossover is when hair from a different area of your head is wrapped in your extensions; only one strand can cause a lot of pain, and pull out your own hair.
Click the link to view improperly applied hair extensions
https://youtube.com/shorts/4XB3Sv8hk7I?si=6FpnUygPql1RMpkz
Properly Section Keratin Bonds; avoid cross-over hairs
Section 3: Proper Hair Extension Maintenance
Proper maintenance is key to preventing traction alopecia. Regularly washing and conditioning your hair extensions, and using gentle products, will help keep them clean and prevent product buildup that can weigh down your natural hair. Be sure to follow the recommended maintenance routine provided by your stylist and avoid excessive heat styling or using harsh chemicals on your extensions.
1) You must brush your hair extensions; and detangle from roots to ends to avoid unnecessary pulling on your own hair. One of the biggest issues I find with hair extensions is that people are afraid to brush at their scalp. This is imperative since we naturally shed over 100 strands per day, and while wearing hair extensions the shedding stays in the hair extensions until they are removed. This shedding needs to be detangled since it can wrap around the hair extensions leading to unnecessary damage.
2) Keep up with your move-up appointments (tape, pull-thru, sew-ins), since leaving the extensions in for too long will lead to shedding wrapping around the attachment area.
3) Keep up with keratin removals, it is essential to remove keratin hair extensions within the 4 to 6-month time frame. Keratin bonds & i-tip hair extensions are placed on individual strands of your own hair, and if worn for longer than 6 months, there will be shedding that is difficult to remove. Everyone’s hair grows at a different rate, if your hair grows fast, then you may need to remove your hair extensions at the 4-month mark.
4) Do not leave your hair wet; especially before going to bed. Wet hair expands and contracts and the simple action of sleeping with wet hair can lead to hair matting. Dry your hair extensions, and wear your hair in two braids, or one before bed. Wrap your hair in a silk scarf at night to avoid friction.
5) Brush your hair extensions at least 3 times per day, and do not overuse thermal heat or hair spray. It is best to curl and set your hair extensions, and wash shortly thereafter.
Section 4: Avoiding Tension and Pulling
One of the most critical aspects of preventing traction alopecia is avoiding excessive tension and pulling on your hair. Avoid tight hairstyles that put a strain on your scalp, such as high ponytails or braids. Opt for looser hairstyles that distribute the weight of your extensions evenly.
A low ponytail or bun is very chic, and a great way to wear your hair on days that you are not wearing it down. Remember to brush at least 3 times per day.
Section 5: Giving Your Hair a Break
While hair extensions can be a fantastic accessory, it's essential to give your natural hair a break from time to time. Wearing extensions continuously can put constant stress on your hair follicles, increasing the risk of traction alopecia. Take breaks between extension installations to allow your hair to rest and recover.
If you properly maintain your hair extensions; then you can remove and immediately replace them. We will help you to decide if you are a candidate for hair extensions! It is best to say “no,” if you do not dry your hair, or if your lifestyle is not one that can properly maintain them. Maintenance is key, but we are always available for quick check-ins, in fact, we offer this service as part of our online booking services.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, preventing traction alopecia is all about proper hair extension care and maintenance. By choosing professional extensions, following a meticulous maintenance routine, avoiding tension and pulling, and giving your hair regular breaks, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing this condition. Remember, your hair's health should always be a priority, even when using extensions.
To determine if hair extensions are right for you, and which technique will work for your hair, we offer a free consultation — this is the best way to decide to move further.
Hair Extensions Background
At Noelle Salon, they evaluate your natural hair, and listen to the client's wishes on styling, color match, and look. They use human hair extensions like 100% Remy human hair, or Virgin Hair (unlike Bellami hair). Hair extensions can be used for short hair or 24 inches of a full head of hair, and they have worked with different methods like tape-in extensions, clip-in hair extensions, Keratin and enjoy using the Veila Pull-thru method with the Veila Hair Extensions for ease of hair care. Styling can vary from flat iron, natural curl, or curly hair. Whether you are looking for a change of style or look for a day such as a Clip-in ponytail, having a high-quality ponytail extension can mix it up for you. Your natural hair journey with your hair growth can be enhanced with Hair extensions when protective styling is applied, and regular maintenance is used. You can change your hair in one day - feel free to reach out and explore the possibilities.
