Not all types of extensions are created equal, and picking the best hair extensions is half the battle when it comes to ensuring the end result looks completely natural and believable (because no one wants hair extensions that remind you of Britney Spears circa 2006). Above all, make sure you choose a product that's made of 100 percent human hair. "Simply put, synthetic hair looks fake because it is fake. It's shinier than real hair, which is what makes it stand out," explains celebrity hairstylist Ashley Rubell, who works with Lena Dunham.
The majority of high-end hair extensions out there are made with what's known as Remy hair, human hair that's been sifted through so that all the strands fall in the same direction to help eliminate tangles, notes Rubell. Some of the best clip-in hair extensions to try: Jen Atkin by Beauty Works Invisi-Clip-In, $371.99, Glam Seamless Clip-In Extensions, $279.99, and Barefoot Blonde Hair, $194.99.
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...Then Select the Right Shade
Picking the right color is also essential: "You can easily spot bad hair extensions when the color doesn't match," says Capri, who advises choosing a hue that matches your color exactly, as well as a few others. For example, if you're blonde with highlights, choose extensions that match both your base color and the lightest pieces. "Most people, even those who have never dyed their hair, have more than one color or tone in it, so the clip-ins should also be dimensional," adds Capri.
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Know Where to Place Them
As a general rule, Capri recommends always keeping clip-ins at least one inch away from your hairline. "The hairs here are the thinnest and most fragile, so you don't want to put any extra tension on them," she explains. "Keeping the extensions away from the hairline will also prevent any telltale pieces from peeking out." Also important: Avoid placing hair extensions in straight lines. "Follow the curvature of you head, picturing a 'U' shape. When putting them in on the sides, tilt them on a slight angle," suggests Rubell. This helps the pieces fall and blend better with the rest of your hair, ultimately making for a much more natural and seamless effect. After all, you want the final style to be the thing that people notice, not the extensions themselves, Rubell adds.
Image via BeautyWorksOnline
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Put Extensions in Like a Pro
No matter where you're placing them, the M.O. should be the same. Take a section of hair that's the same width as the clip-in piece, then sprinkle a bit of texturizing powder near the root and backcomb gently. "The powder gives the hair grit and grip, so that the tease will hold better and the clips won't slip out," says Capri, who recommends Unite Expanda Dust Volumizing Powder, $15.
Image via BeautyWorksOnline
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Create a Massive Pony
Channel your inner Arianna Grande with a pumped up pony that's nothing like your go-to gym style.
Capri recommends gathering all of your natural hair into a large ponytail --
except for an inch-wide section closest to your hairline -- and securing with a rubber band. Next, add clip-in extensions all around the sides of the ponytail. Take the smaller hairline section and add it to the first ponytail, so that it covers up the clip-ins on the sides, and secure with another elastic. Whether you leave the pony straight or add some curls or waves, it's sure to make a statement.
