Spring presents the perfect opportunity to shake off the shackles of winter and debut a brand new ‘do, and these sizzling hair extension trends are your ticket to head-turning locks and endless compliments

by Luda Conti Owner, Avanti Day Resort

LONG AND LAVISH

Like a magic wand, hair extensions can shake up your look almost instantly. Boost the volume of baby-fine hair, lengthen your locks without six months of grow time, play with highlights and lowlights sans permanent dye, or turn up the drama for your next special-occasion event. There are several extension types, including DIY clip-ons and weaves, but for maximum results, it’s best to turn to the professionals on this one to prevent damage and ensure nary an eye can spot that it’s not 100% your own hair. Stylists can also help determine which method is right for your specific goals (will you be itching for a change in a month or two?), hair type, and color.

HOT TO GO

Hot fusion extensions don’t involve any glue or tape; instead, long, lustrous strands are attached to your head with a keratin based tip, thus you might see this method also referred to as keratin bond extensions. A stylist will use a heating element (a fusion hair iron or hot pliers) to fuse the keratin bond and extension to your hair, and the end result is both well-blended and super easy to style. Human hair is primarily made of keratin, thus the process doesn’t damage your natural hair. It typically takes one to two hours to complete, and the extensions can last for up to six months.

STICK WITH ME

The tape-in extension method applies wefts collections of hair strands that have been sewn onto a thin strip to the hair using a waterproof, medical-grade adhesive that is totally safe to wash, heat, and style. To attach the tape, a thin strip of your natural hair is sandwiched between two extensions. Because the base is razor-thin and lightweight, the extra volume doesn’t feel heavy or weigh you down, but it’s vital to tap a professional to ensure the adhesive isn’t visible. This method is super quick, and a seasoned stylist can typically complete a full head of extensions in less than an hour. Depending on how fast your hair grows, tape-ins will need to be removed anywhere from four to eight weeks, but they can be recycled for two additional uses.

Avanti Day Resort 345 U.S. 9, Manalapan Township 732.780.0222, avantidayresort.com