Glue Hair Extensions

Not everyone inherits a head full of long, lush hair. To add length, volume or color to your natural hair, you can add natural or synthetic hair extensions. Follow this guide to glue hair extensions safely and effectively.

Steps

Preparation

  1. Purchase either natural or synthetic hair extensions from a beauty supply store.
    • Natural hair can be heat-styled and color-treated. However, they require more maintenance than synthetic extensions, and they cost more.
    • Synthetic hair extensions will hold the style that is set for them in the package. They are a great choice for a short-term application, and they are less expensive than natural hair.
  2. Comb the extensions with a comb. Excessive brushing could damage the hair.
  3. Wash and dry your existing hair thoroughly. Comb any tangles out of your hair.
  4. Wear an old button-up shirt. You want to wear a top that will come off without messing up your hair.

Glue the Hair Extensions

  1. Use a comb to create a part in your hair near the nape of your neck, which will expose a strip of your scalp. Some hair should hang below the part. Clip your remaining hair up and out of the way.
  2. Measure each extension for the desired length. Cut the extensions as needed with sharp scissors.
  3. Lay an extension on a table with the strip side facing you. Apply a thin line of latex-based bonding glue across the strip, and wait 5 seconds or so for the glue to become tacky.
  4. Press the strip against your exposed scalp. You can apply some heat with a blow dryer for about 15 seconds, if desired.
  5. Continue gluing extensions on top of the part. Tug them gently to make sure that they are adhering to your scalp.
  6. Unclip your hair and create a second part about 1" above the first one. Glue the extensions to your exposed scalp.
  7. Continue gluing in hair extensions until you achieve the look that you want. Use your scissors to trim your extensions, if necessary.



Tips

  • Brush your hair regularly to avoid tangles. Use gentle strokes so you don't pull out your glued hair extensions, and avoid brushes that have balls on the ends of the bristles.
  • Remove your extensions every 2 to 3 weeks. Use a bonding glue remover or an oil sheen to make removal easier. You can reapply them and reuse them as long as they maintain their quality.
  • Wash your hair, including the extensions, about every 3 days. Scrub gently and make sure to clean your scalp in between the wefts. Avoid wadding up your hair when you wash it. Instead, scrub your scalp with your fingertips and then gently work out to the ends of your hair.

Warnings

  • Do not place hair extensions too close to your hairline, as they will be noticeable if you pull your hair back or pin it up.

Things You'll Need

  • Hair extensions
  • Latex-based bonding glue
  • Comb
  • Clips
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner

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Sources and Citations

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