You have ginger hair, but you want more of it. Who can blame you? Having hair extensions can give you volume, length or both, and they're extremely versatile for different hairstyles, too. But, which extensions do you choose and how do you keep them in good condition?
CHOOSING THE RIGHT RED HAIR EXTENSIONS FOR YOU
First of all, how long do you want to go? Are you looking for length, volume, or both? Do you want to wear extensions as a one-off or on a more permanent basis? Asking yourself these questions will help you to choose the right hair extensions for you.
Speaking plainly, for hair extensions that look as natural to you as possible, you want to go for real human hair extensions, rather than synthetic. These can come as clip-in, which can be applied by yourself, or permanent, which requires a stylist to apply them.
HOW TO WASH RED HAIR EXTENSIONS
Whether you've gone for clip-in or more permanent hair extensions, being gentle and giving them TLC is the best way to keep them looking better for longer. Clip-in hair extensions should be removed for washing, but if you have permanent extensions you should wash them while they're attached to your hair.
- Detangle gently before washing to prevent tangling.
- Using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner is milder and gentler on those delicate strands. Make sure the water is cold or lukewarm as hot water can damage the strands' cuticles. For permanent extensions, when lathering with shampoo be mindful of where the extension attachments are as you don't want to disturb them in your hair.
- Rinse the shampoo thoroughly and apply a nourishing conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair before washing out.
Added bonus: Gingerful's shampoo and conditioner will help keep the red hair extensions nice and bright, just like on your real red hair.
REGULARLY BRUSH AND DETANGLE
Real hair extensions, just like real hair, should be brushed to keep tangles at bay. A wide-toothed comb or a special extension brush should be used as they're gentler – start at the ends and work your way up, holding the roots to prevent tension.
A WORD ON HEAT STYLING
Human hair extensions can be styled with heat, but like with any type of hair, tread carefully. Use a heat protective spray, and opt for heatless styling where possible.
REMEMBER YOUR SLEEP PROTECTION
Clip-in hair extensions should be removed before sleeping, but for permanent extensions, you should ensure your sleep environment helps to protect your strands. Any friction will cause tangles and breakage, so opt for a silk or satin pillowcase to keep the strand's cuticle laying as smooth as possible.
Above all, finding a shade that's the right match for your red hair is important, too. From 'flaming ginger' to 'cinnamon swirl', Cliphair boasts a huge range of natural-looking red hair extensions, with more shades to come. They pride themselves on using the highest quality, ethically sourced human hair for their extensions, which come in clip-in or more permanent types.
A redhead's guide to going sulfate-free and silicone-free
Why redheads should indulge in weekly hair mask treatments
