Women's hair extensions have been in use for quite some time, particularly in theatrical environments, fashion shows, and photo shoots. The frequency with which modern celebrities change their hairstyles through the use of extensions has led to a more open attitude towards hair augmentation.

Women who want a new look without committing to a major haircut, years of growing pains, or hours of processing and styling can easily snap in a different head of hair with hair extensions. It has been a boon for those who wish to style them like real hair for both versatility and a natural look. When it comes to using crimping, curling, waving, and straightening irons, not all extensions can take the heat. It is vital you buy the right kind of hair extensions from a reputed supplier who guarantees top quality. Otherwise, the extensions will become permanently damaged if they are subjected to hot tools. Understanding the different hair types used for extensions will guide you towards making the right buying decision, as hair type is the primary indicator of whether or not extensions can be heat-styled.

Never use hot styling tools to style synthetic hair extensions?

Synthetic hair extensions must never come into contact with a direct heat source or even be near one. Anyone who has ever tried to dry her childhood Barbie doll's hair by a fireplace knows exactly what happens to synthetic hair that is exposed to intense heat. The artificial fibers used to create synthetic extensions will frizz, kink, or simply melt together if they get too hot. Moreover, the melted plastic can adhere to the appliance and also to the natural hair or the extension attachment. Extensions made from synthetic hair are best for women who want a permanent style set into the hair so that they don’t have to bother with any further styling.

What about human hair extensions?

As is evident from the name, this type is sourced from around the world. Basically, people grow and sell their hair to be used for wigs and extensions. The hair may be used as it is, with the cuticle intact and facing downward as it does on a human head, or processed to remove the cuticle. Because human hair is susceptible to long-term heat damage, whether it is on a head or sewn onto a weft, it should be sprayed with a thermal styling treatment to minimize damage before styling with hot tools. Most experts recommend curling or straightening clip-in extensions when they are off the head. This can be done by anchoring the sewn end of the extensions under a heavy object; the extensions can either hang free off the edge of a countertop or lie flat on the counter and be lifted with the free hand. Style the extensions, let them cool, and then spritz with regular hairspray to finish.

Human hair extensions, like regular hair, will start to lose the style after many hours or in humid or windy conditions. The style will be completely reversed with wetting or washing.