Ultimate Guide: Can I Have My Own Hair Made Into Extensions?

Welcome to the ultimate guide on whether or not you can have your own hair made into extensions. Many people dream of having long, voluminous hair, and hair extensions can be a way to achieve that look. But what if you want to use your own natural hair for the extensions? In this guide, we will explore the different types of hair extensions, the process of using your own hair for extensions, including how to make your own hair extensions, the limitations and challenges you may face, and the care required for maintaining your real hair extensions. By the end, you'll have all the information you need to decide if having your own hair made into extensions is the right choice for you. So let's dive in and good luck on your hair extension journey!

Understanding Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are a popular way to instantly add length, volume, and versatility to your hairstyle. There are two main types of hair extensions: human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions. Human hair extensions, including 100% Remy human hair or Virgin Hair, as the name suggests, are made from real human hair and provide a natural look and feel. They can be purchased at beauty supply stores or salons, while synthetic hair extensions are usually a cheaper option and can be found at beauty supply stores or online. Synthetic extensions are made from synthetic fibers and often have a different texture than human hair extensions. Each type of extension has its own advantages and limitations, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Different Types of Hair Extensions

There are several different types of hair extensions available, each with its own application method and benefits. Here are some of the most common types:

• Clip-in extensions: These are the easiest to apply and remove, making them a popular choice for those who want temporary extensions. They can be easily clipped into your natural hair, providing instant length and volume. You can find clip-in extensions in different lengths, colors, and styles, making it easy to customize your look.
• Tape-in extensions: These extensions offer a seamless and natural look, as they are adhered to your natural hair with a special type of tape. They are lightweight and comfortable to wear, and they can last for several weeks before needing to be repositioned. Tape-in extensions are a great choice for those looking for a long-lasting option.
• Fusion extensions: These extensions provide a long-lasting and durable option, as they are attached to your natural hair with keratin bonds. The extensions are applied strand by strand, using a heat applicator, and the bonds create a secure and natural look. Fusion extensions are best suited for those with thick, straight hair.
• Weave extensions: Also known as sew-in extensions, these extensions involve sewing tracks of hair into braided sections of your natural hair. They are a popular choice for those with curly hair, as the weave can blend seamlessly with the natural curls. However, this method requires professional installation and can be time-consuming.
• Micro-link extensions: These extensions use small beads to attach strands of hair to your natural hair. The beads are clamped onto the hair, creating a secure bond. Micro-link extensions are a good option for those with fine or thin hair, as they are lightweight and do not damage the natural hair.

How Hair Extensions are Made?

Hair extensions, whether made from human hair or synthetic fibers, go through a process before becoming the extensions we see in stores. For human hair extensions, the hair is sourced from different regions, such as India or Europe. The hair is then sorted, cleaned, and processed to remove any impurities.

Once the hair is clean, it goes through a treatment process to match the desired colors and textures. This may involve dyeing the hair to achieve different shades or adding different hair textures, such as curly or straight, to match the natural hair of the wearer. The extensions are tested for quality, ensuring that they are tangle-free, long-lasting, and natural-looking. This process is crucial for organizations like Locks of Love, which relies on donated long hair to create wigs for children experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions.

When it comes to making extensions using your own hair, the process is slightly different. Your own hair can be used to create extensions that match your natural hair color and texture. This option is especially popular for those looking for a more seamless blend between their natural hair and the extensions. You can find bonding glue in a couple of different colors, such as red, blonde, brown, and black, so no matter what color extensions you wish to make, you can find clips to match. However, if you have black or dark brown hair, you would need to use a darker colored glue to ensure that the color of the dried glue is not visible through the hair.

To create extensions using your own hair, you will need a large quantity of hair, as the extensions will be made from strands of your own hair. The hair is treated and prepared to ensure longevity and quality. This may involve cleaning, conditioning, and trimming the hair before turning it into extensions. Curling your hair before adding your own extensions can also help blend the natural hair with the extensions for a seamless look. Remember you will loose some length from the hair you collect since we need at least an inch of the top of the ponytail to create an attachment.

In the next section, we will discuss the possible limitations and challenges of using your own hair for extensions.

Can My Own Hair be Made into Extensions?

If you have long, healthy hair, the answer is likely yes - your own hair can be made into extensions. However, there are some factors to consider. Your hair type, texture, and color will play a role in determining the feasibility of using your own hair for extensions. Additionally, the length and thickness of your hair may limit the extension possibilities. Consulting with a hair stylist is the best way to determine if your own hair is suitable for extensions and to explore the different options available to you.

Making Wefts Difficulty Due to Equipment

Many clients ask if they can save their hair, and have them made into hair extensions to be applied later. We can make your own hair into keratin bonded individual strands, but creating a hair weft for sew-in hair extensions or clip in hair extensions is more difficult. Large hair manufacturers use industrial sewing machines to create hair wefts, and we do not have the capability, or equipment. We can send the hair to a factory that makes hair wefts, but it not a cost-effective solution, it is basically the same amount of money to purchase new hair. Additionally, the hair your reserve may not be enough to create a longer look since it takes almost double the amount of hair you cut to create a longer and fuller style. Many opt to donate their hair to a worthy charity such as "Locks of Love," whom create hair wigs for cancer patients.

The Process of Using Your Own Hair for Extensions

Using your own hair for extensions involves a multi-step process that requires careful consideration and expertise. Here is a general overview of the process:

1. Preparing the hair: Before the extensions can be made, the hair needs to be cleaned, conditioned, and trimmed. This ensures that the hair is in its best possible condition and will result in high-quality extensions.
2. Collection of hair: A large quantity of hair is needed to create extensions. This means that you may need to cut off a significant portion of your own hair. The hair is typically collected in ponytails or braids, and the stylist will make sure to gather the hair evenly from different sections of your scalp.
3. Creating the extensions: Once the hair has been collected, the stylist will begin the process of creating the keratin extensions. They will carefully separate the hair into small sections to secure the hair together.
4. Installing the extensions: Finally, the extensions are carefully installed by the stylist, by attaching them using a bonding agent,
5. It's important to remember that using your own hair for extensions requires a large quantity of hair and may result in a significant change in your hairstyle. Consulting with a professional hair stylist is essential to determine if the process is suitable for your hair type and to achieve the best results.

Possible Limitations and Challenges For Your Hairstyle

While using your own hair for extensions can be a great option, there are some limitations and challenges to consider. Here are a few:

• Hair color: If you have a unique hair color, it may be challenging to find extensions that perfectly match your natural hair color. However, a skilled stylist will be able to customize the extensions to ensure a seamless blend.
• Hair type and texture: Different hair types and textures may pose challenges when making extensions. For example, if you have very curly or coarse hair, the extensions may not blend as smoothly. However, with the right techniques and the expertise of a stylist, it is still possible to achieve a natural look.
• Length: The length of your own hair will determine the length of the extensions that can be created. If your hair is shorter, the extensions may be limited in length. However, extensions can still add volume and thickness, even if the overall length is not dramatically increased.
• It's important to discuss these considerations with your hair stylist before deciding to make extensions using your own hair. They will be able to assess your hair type, texture, color, and length to determine the best options for you and address any potential limitations or challenges.
• Creating a hair weft using your own hair can be a unique and personalized way to change up your hairstyle. However, there are certain factors you need to consider before taking this step. A conventional sewing machine will not sew hair together and create a perfect and durable hair weft.
• The collection of your own hair may not be enough to create a full set which gives both length and volume. Extensions add almost double the amount of hair, you still may need to use hair extensions in the long run.

Keratin Bonded Hair Extensions Explained

Keratin bonded hair extensions are a popular option for those looking for long-lasting, natural-looking extensions. These extensions use a protein-based adhesive, known as keratin, to attach the extensions to your natural hair. The keratin bonds are durable and withstand heat styling, making them a versatile option. However, it is important to use heat protectant products when using hair dryers, flat irons, curling tongs, or other heat appliances to style your hair, as excessive heat can weaken the bonds and cause the extensions to loosen. Additionally, it is important to choose a bonding glue that matches the color of your hair, such as dark brown extensions, to ensure a seamless and natural look.

What are Keratin Bonded Hair Extensions?

Keratin bonded hair extensions are a type of extension that uses a protein-based adhesive called keratin to attach the extensions to your natural hair. Here's how the process typically works:

1. Consultation with a hair stylist: Before getting keratin bonded hair extensions, it's important to have a consultation with a professional hair stylist. They will be able to assess your hair type, texture, and color, and determine if keratin bonded extensions are the best option for you. During the consultation, you can also discuss the desired length, color, and style of the extensions.
2. Application of the extensions: The stylist will start by sectioning your hair and attaching the extensions strand by strand. They will use a heat applicator, such as a hot tool, to melt the keratin bonds and secure the extensions to your natural hair. The extensions are placed close to the roots, ensuring a natural and seamless blend.
3. Blending and styling: Once the extensions are applied, the stylist will blend them with your natural hair, making sure they are cut and styled to achieve the desired look. They may use heat appliances, such as hair dryers or flat irons, to create the desired hairstyle. It's important to use heat protectant products to protect the extensions and prevent damage.
4. Keratin bonded extensions offer a natural and long-lasting solution for adding length, volume, and versatility to your hair. The keratin bonds are durable, allowing the extensions to stay in place for several months with proper care. They can be styled, washed, and treated just like your natural hair, giving you the freedom to experiment with different hairstyles.
5. One of the advantages of keratin bonded extensions is that the glue used for the bonds comes in different colors, allowing the stylist to choose a shade that matches your natural hair color. This ensures that the bonds are virtually undetectable, creating a seamless and natural-looking result.
6. It's important to have keratin bonded extensions applied by a professional hair stylist. They have the expertise and experience to ensure the extensions are applied correctly and the bonds are secure. Regular maintenance appointments at the salon are also recommended to ensure the extensions remain in good condition.

Can Hair Extensions be Reused?

The ability to reuse hair extensions depends on the type of extensions you have. Some extensions, particularly those made from human hair, can be reused if they are well-maintained. Synthetic hair extensions, on the other hand, are usually more prone to damage and may not be suitable for reuse.

To reuse extensions, they need to be carefully removed, cleaned, and stored. This process can be complex and is best done by a professional hair stylist. They will use specialized tools, such as wig clips with a comb on the outside, or hair wefts, to detach the extensions from your natural hair without causing least damage or tangling. The number of clips needed to secure the clip-in to your hair will depend on the width of the extension, typically ranging from 2-5 clips. When brushing, be sure to start from the ends of the extension and work your way upwards to avoid tangling and damage.

Once the extensions are removed, they should be thoroughly cleaned and conditioned to remove any product buildup or dirt. The extensions should then be stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight, to prevent damage.

It's important to note that the number of times extensions can be reused depends on the quality of the hair and how well they were cared for. High-quality human hair extensions that have been properly maintained can withstand several applications, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.

Can I have my own hair made into extensions?

Hair extensions offer a versatile way to enhance your look, but can your own hair be made into extensions? Understanding the process, limitations, and care involved is crucial. While keratin bonded extensions are popular, reusability and maintenance play key roles. With proper care, extensions can transform your style. If you're considering this option, get in touch for expert advice on creating custom extensions from your own hair.