Hair extensions are a huge help for many. They are unequivocally one of the best hair styling accessories one can get. They come in different sizes, shapes, and types so that every woman can have their favorite piece blending with their natural locks. Although convenient, they can lose their freshness and get damaged with time.
Hair extensions can be reused. It depends on many factors, such as the hair strand quality, extent of usage, extension type, etc. Understanding these will help you decide whether your hair extension is worthy of being used again.
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What decides hair extensions’ reusability?
Hair extensions are something that many find to be unique. Even though replicas can be found, once you fall in love with one, there is no going back. Hence, leaving behind your beloved hair extensions is difficult, and the urge to reuse them is common.
There is no harm in reusing them if they are in good condition. As long as the piece retains its texture and quality, it can be used without much trouble.
Factors that decide the reusability of hair extensions
1.) Quality
The quality of hair strands determines how long the extension lasts. The higher the quality, the lesser the damage in the initial use. Good quality extensions reach the market after being processed with superior technology. Hence, these last for a reasonable amount of time.
If the fibers are not strong, they will break easily. The extension will have lost its charm after some use and cannot give the look it used to. In such a case, the extension will not help you anymore and must be replaced.
2.) Material used
Each piece has a story to tell if made of natural hair. Natural hair extensions are amalgamations of the finest hairs. As a result, when attached to the existing strands, these fibers blend well and give a look that artificial extensions can never match.
Moreover, they do not lose their elegance like the latter. Natural hair will stay intact for an extended period and, in most cases, can be reused with slight modifications.
Artificial extensions are also good. Although plenty of cheap products are available in the market, quality artificial extensions are also easily obtainable. You have to look into the details, examine the piece by touching, and gather all the details from manufacturing to guarantee from the seller.
3.) Maintenance
No matter the quality of the hair extension or how well it was manufactured, ultimately, it is your care that determines whether the hair extension is suitable for reuse.
Proper maintenance and fewer usages can prolong the life of these hair styling accessories. Rough usage and improper storage methods can affect the effectiveness making them not worthy of repeat use.
4.) The hair type
Your hair extension type matters. While some hair extensions are meant for repeat usage, others are created for one time use.
Clip-ons are meant for a quick hairdo and are therefore made for temporary use. You can wear them as and when you want, as many times as you desire. Even then, the previous factors are vital here, for these determine whether the particular hair type is suitable for continuing its usage.
Once you have used the hair extension several times, it can lose its freshness and may begin to show signs of wear and tear. If so, make sure to replace the piece as soon as possible.
Hand-sewn hair extensions are built to stay on for months. Once this period is over, it is time to change the piece because your natural hair growth will have pushed the artificial fibers down.
This change is also needed if the extension is damaged. Although the pieces are meant for one time use, you can use them again if they are in perfect condition. With the help of a hair expert, the strands have to be removed and sewn again.
Tape-in extensions are also reusable. Once you know that the tapes have lost their stickiness, remove them and apply new tape and you are good to go. Replacing the whole piece might be the best option if the fibers are damaged.
Is there any harm in reusing my old hair extension?
Reusing hair extensions cannot harm your hair or scalp as long as they are in good condition if they have changed so much since their first use.
So how does this happen?
Hair extensions get tangled with time. If so, maintaining it will become impossible. Untangling will not be effective as it can recur easily as the fibers lose their initial strength and smoothness with time.
Wearing a hair extension with too many knots can harm your scalp while you try to comb, your natural hair strands getting pulled harder than usual. Regular use of such extensions can adversely affect your scalp health and lead to hair loss.
Additionally, your hairdo will look different than it used to. Once the hair strands become tangled, the flow of the strands will not be the same. You will not be able to have that flawless curls or straight, sleek look anymore. This means it is time to give up your hair extension and find a new replacement.
Should I take an expert’s advice to decide?
Yes, it is better to take a hair expert’s advice in deciding whether to replace your existing hair extension. They have studied many hair extensions, so they can quickly notice even the slightest detail you miss. This can help you decide faster. Moreover, they can suggest new extensions that are better in quality, style and price.
To conclude
Hair extensions do not last forever. However, reusing them is also not frowned upon. The key is maintaining them well and getting the same examined by an expert before making a decision.
If damaged, replace them without a second thought, as repairing might cost the same as buying a new. Use them with care, and they can save you a few bugs!
