Why are there dark strands of hair in blonde hair extensions?
Unraveling the Mystery: Black Strands in Blonde Hair Extensions
Introduction:
Hair extensions are a popular accessory for those seeking to add length, volume, or a splash of color to their locks. However, what happens when you find unexpected black strands in your blonde hair extensions? In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons behind this phenomenon and shed light on the potential causes. So, let's explore the world of hair extensions and unravel this mystery together.
Section 1: Understanding Blonde Hair Extensions
Blonde hair extensions come in various types, from clip-in extensions to keratin-bonded or non-remy hair extensions. These extensions are designed to seamlessly blend with natural blonde hair, providing a flawless and natural look. However, the presence of black strands can disrupt this harmony and raise questions about the quality and origin of the hair.
Section 2: The Quality Factor
One possible reason for the appearance of black strands in blonde hair extensions is the quality of the hair used. In lower-quality extensions, the hair might not undergo proper processing or sorting, resulting in the inclusion of strands from different sources. This can lead to the presence of black hair mixed with the blonde strands, causing the discrepancy in color.
Consider the source; most hair extensions come from dark-hair donors, it is a rare find if a donor has lighter hair. Therefore, when the color is stripped from the hair extensions; some darker strands remain. These are often the strands that may turn orange in the sun or react to self-tanning products.
The hair may not necessarily be black, but darker in color which certainly does not blend with your own hair.
Aside from plucking them out, there is not much else you can do to lighten the dark strands since they will not respond to toner.
Section 3: Remy vs. Non-Remy Hair Extensions
Remy hair extensions are known for their superior quality, as the hair is collected and processed in a way that keeps the hair cuticles intact and aligned. On the other hand, non-Remy hair extensions are often obtained from multiple sources and may undergo harsher processing methods. Black strands in blonde extensions could be a result of non-remy hair being used, where the inclusion of different hair types and colors is more likely.
Non-Remy hair is decolorized in acid baths which strip the hair cuticle of color, but if there is a little dark color pigment left behind, it will immediately turn dark. This happens in color removal on natural hair as well, once a color is introduced to decolorized hair (such as a toner), any leftover pigment will revert to dark.
The presence of darker strands can be a texture issue, for example, if the donor has some grey hair, it will react differently to the color process! Since grey hair is void of melanin, the hair can turn dark while decolorizing and recoloring.
Darker hair extensions do not have this problem, it is rare to see a light strand appear.
Section 4: Processing Techniques
During the manufacturing process of hair extensions, certain chemicals and dyes are used to achieve the desired color and texture. However, if the processing is not done meticulously, it can result in inconsistent coloration, leading to black strands appearing in blonde hair extensions. This highlights the importance of choosing reputable brands that prioritize quality control.
Quality control from the manufacturer is truly the only way to identify dark strands. Since most factories package the hair extensions, the darker strands remain unseen until the packaging is opened.
Color consistency remains a problem in the hair extension industry, therefore, in order to avoid the nuisance of dark strands, hair vendors pay a premium for higher-quality hair. But this can still happen to the best of us, even Bellami hair extensions have this issue with their blonde hair extensions.
Another way to avoid the presence of dark hair strands in blonde hair extensions is to purchase virgin hair, this hair comes from one donor and responds to color with consistency. I often do my own bleaching and toning on virgin hair to ensure my clientele receives the best color match and quality. Although it takes more time to do this, the results are much better since I can control the color, and the hair extensions have a longer life span.
Section 5: Maintenance and Care
Another factor that can contribute to the appearance of black strands in blonde hair extensions is improper maintenance and care. If the extensions are not washed, conditioned, or detangled correctly, residue, dirt, or tangled hair fibers can accumulate, leading to the illusion of black strands. Regular and proper care can help minimize such occurrences.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the presence of black strands in blonde hair extensions can stem from various factors, including the quality of the hair, the type of extensions used, the processing techniques employed, and inadequate maintenance. To avoid such discrepancies, it is crucial to invest in high-quality extensions from reputable brands and follow proper care routines. By doing so, you can enjoy the beauty and versatility of blonde hair extensions without any unexpected surprises.
At Noelle Salon, we stock all of our hair extensions so our clients can see the hair they will be receiving. We expertly match color, and allow our customers to view their hair and approve the quality.
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.