Clip-in Hair Extensions for Black Women

Every time we wish to change our hairstyles, the color, or even the cut, we have to visit the salon. There are only few times that we can take care of certain things at home, without having to rush to a stylist. And with the regular salon trips, we can end up spending hundreds of dollars on a new look which quite frankly, can't be afforded by us all.

However, that doesn't mean we should pass up on being able to look and feel good about ourselves. We know that when our hair is flowing, bouncing, and looks shiny, we will definitely have a fantastic day. Which girl wouldn't wish for that? I know I would.

Now, the fact remains that we all have different types of hair length and this can pose as an issue when it comes to styling them everyday. And when the hair's length is really, really short, then forget about it. You literally are left with few styling choices and waiting to grow your hair longer will take months.

So, are there any quick fixes when you want your hair to be long? How about getting hair extensions? Hollywood celebrities have been using them for years now, making their hair grow long overnight (not literally). So why not us?

This hairstyling trends have become so popular among women that we are taking all steps necessary to get them. But again, not everyone wants to spend the required time and money over fake extensions. Then, what can be a less expensive method? Have you considered clip-in extensions?

Getting these extensions is an affordable way of changing the length and style of your current hair; and you can do it on your own. Which brings us to the topic of the article. As you read on, you will see the necessary steps to place the extensions, from the comforts of your own home. Take a look.

One of the best parts about extensions is that they blend so well with your natural hair, that no one can ever find out if you have them. Depending on what length you wish to keep, a quicker and faster way for a new hairdo is possible. Although the sew in, braided, and bonded extensions are more widely opted, these extensions really are fun to have.

If your natural hair is at least shoulder length or longer and the texture is medium to thick, you are a perfect candidate for at home extensions. The reason is, you can easily place the extensions on your own and won't require anyone's help.

Scout few beauty shops in your area or shop online for inexpensive extensions that match your hair color. It is so easy to do that a basic full head fitting would take you about 10 to 15 minutes. For an everyday, casual look, here are the steps on how to get extensions on your own.

• You can select from a range of extension sets, depending on your preference. Choose from full head, half head, specific sections, clip-in fringes, celebrity clip-in hair, and highlights and streaks as well.

• If you wish to get a full head of extensions, then start by parting your hair into four, equal sections.
• Begin with the section of hair which is closest to the lower part (nape) of your neck. Place each clip of extension in front of you and insert the 1st two clips on the lower nape hair section. Snap the clip to close it.

• If you have fine hair and the clip is not staying in its place, you can tease the roots with a comb (gently). Make sure you use a comb and not a brush.
• Similar to the 1st section, take the next three clips and go to other sections of hair just above the first one.

• Repeat the same 'snap and close' method to secure the clips in place. Two more clips will go on the 3rd section, slightly above the 2nd section.
• Once you reach the top of your head (from the back), place three clips there. These clips are designed in a particular manner so that they lay flat over your head.

• To hide the extensions, the 4th section of clips will do the trick. After finishing all 4 sections, now we move to the front of the head.
• Place two clips on either side of your head, about couple of inches above the ears. Two more clips above these and one last clip will go right on top of your head; and that is all you need to do.

• There will be times that smaller strands of hair won't cooperate while the extensions are being placed. In that case, instead of using a hair spray, use a serum. Take proper care of your extensions and they'll look new every time you put them in.
• Serum will help keep tangles out and will be easy to wash your natural hair when the extensions are removed.

• While using natural (human hair) extensions, make sure that you wash them once a month (or depending on how much you use them). Make a solution of water and regular shampoo, and apply conditioner in the end. This way, they will last for a long, long time.

• After the extensions are completely dry, use a flat iron to straighten them properly. This way, when you apply the extensions again, you would've skipped this part and applied them directly. It's a good practice to be thorough.
• Do not brush or comb your extensions when they are wet. Also, make sure you don't tug on them too hard. You don't want hair strands to fallout, do you?

A good tip, before you begin, is to know exactly how the clips on these extensions work. You don't want to be in the middle of the session and have difficulty with them. So practice with opening and closing the clips and then start.

Also, you can experiment on someone else. A friend or family member, or even a mannequin head with hair can work. This way, you'll have a pretty good idea as to what you're doing.

Of course, everyone is unique and have different haircut styles according to their facial dimensions. That is why, if you feel that you can't apply the extensions on your own, take help from a professional for the first few times.

Watch closely as he/she is applying the hair extensions and then try to learn on your own. With practice, I'm sure you won't find these extensions difficult and will be able to try new styles each time.