Salon Hair Extensions For Winter â€“ Can You Wear Them?

January 31, 2013

We Ask Celebrity Salon Hair Extensions Expert Ellin LaVar

It’s that time of year again, the temperature drops and everyone starts to bundle up by bringing out their winter wardrobes to layer against the brutal cold of the season. At least that’s the case here in Minnesota where temps drop to a number that shouldn’t even register on temperature gauges! Burrrr

Anyone who has experienced the cold, bone chilling, damp freeze of Minnesota winters and the like, knows that every bit of extra insulation assists in getting us through this season.This time of year women who regularly wear short hair consider growing it longer. Growing the hair longer to cover the neck is one way to ease winters sting or . . . you could consider salon hair extensions!

More and more readers are asking good questions about salon hair extensions. So we went to the source, and asked salon hair extension expert, Ellin LaVar of LaVar Hair Designs in New York some of your questions. Ellin is an expert who has transformed the looks of glamour icons like, Whitney Houston, Donatella Versace, Naomi Campbell, Julia Roberts, Farrah Fawcett and Oprah!

Barb: Ellin, Who shouldn’t be using salon hair extensions?

Ellin: “I do not advise anyone who is having any type of scalp issue, such as bleeding, sores or unexplained hair loss, to apply hair extensions to their hair before consulting a physician. The extensions can hinder the doctor’s ability to properly diagnosis the problem.”

Barb: Do you have a favorite type of hair extensions?

Ellin; “I do not have a favorite type of hair extension. However, I do have a favorite method of applying extensions. I prefer the braided method of applying hair to the head. The braids allow the hair to be protected from the elements and grow.”

Barb: Ellen, Who should not be using chemical hair relaxers?

Ellin: “Women who have permanent hair color and/or bleach in their hair should not use hair relaxers. Japanese straighteners and body wave treatments are also not compatible with hair relaxers. Children under the age of twelve should not use any of the above chemicals in their hair. Their hair follicles are not mature and these chemicals can cause permanent hair loss.”

Barb: Do I need a chemical hair relaxer to smooth out my frizzy hair?

Ellin: “You do not have to use hair relaxer to smooth out your frizzy hair. Most of the time frizzy hair can be tamed by using the right hair care products. Ellin LaVar TEXTURES, SatinSoft conditioner is excellent for leaving frizzy hair smooth and soft after washing. Also, apply products while hair is wet and allow hair to dry without too much manipulation. This allows the products to seal the cuticle.”

Barb: Ellin, How do you style hair that seems to fall out whenever manipulated?

Ellin: “Before I style hair that seems to be falling out, I would first try to find out why the hair is so fragile. I would recommend seeing a doctor to check hormone levels, thyroid and pituitary excretions and a cancer screening. Medications can also cause hair loss or breakage.

I would choose a hairstyle that requires very little combing and tension. A loose roller set may be the best. This would give the client body and curls that would last all week. She would use a satin hair bonnet at night to keep her hair from rubbing against her pillowcase to help reduce breakage and maintain her hairstyle. In the morning she can finger comb or use a very widely spaced comb to style her hair.”

“The industry and hair styling is always changing with new products and trends,” says LaVar. “But I still love sitting down with a client, one on one, and creating a look that’s perfectly tailored to their face, their attitude. It’s extraordinary to watch a client leave my salon and know they feel fantastic. A great hairstyle really can change your life.”

For more winter hair ideas check out our Pinterest Winter Hair Tips board.

Barb Quinn on Google+

For further discussion on winter hair you might want to also visit these articles: