Hair extensions are commonly done through various methods, with one of the most popular and natural-looking techniques being the strand by strand method. This intricate process involves attaching small, individual bundles of extension hair to tiny sections of your natural hair, offering a seamless blend and versatile styling options.
The strand by strand method is a meticulous process renowned for its ability to create a very natural and undetectable finish. This technique involves bonding small, pre-tipped bundles of extension hair directly to the wearer's natural hair.
The Extension Hair Itself
For this method, the strand by strand method utilizes approximately 20 – 40 strands of hair, attached together at one end using a glue bond/keratin or polyurethane. These pre-prepared tips are crucial for the attachment process, ensuring a secure and durable hold. The choice between keratin, polyurethane, or other glue bonds depends on the specific product and desired longevity.
Attachment Techniques: Warm vs. Cold Fusion
Strand by strand extensions are attached to small pieces/sections of the wearer's hair using a warm (bonded with a heat gun) or cold fusion (copper cylinders and plyers). Both techniques aim to create a strong, discreet attachment point that allows the extensions to move naturally with your own hair.
Here’s a comparison of the two fusion methods:
| Feature | Warm Fusion (Bonded) | Cold Fusion (Micro-Link/Micro-Bead) |
|---|---|---|
| Tool Used | Heat gun | Copper cylinders (micro-rings/beads) and pliers |
| Bond Type | Pre-tipped extensions with keratin, glue, or polyurethane bonds | No heat-activated bond; mechanical clamp |
| Attachment Process | Heat gun melts the bond, which is then rolled around a small section of natural hair | Small section of hair and extension strand are threaded through a copper cylinder, which is then clamped shut with pliers |
| Key Advantage | Often creates a very flat, durable bond that can be very discreet | No heat involved, making it gentle on natural hair; reusable extensions possible |
| Typical Use | Adding length, volume, or highlights with a semi-permanent solution | Popular for those concerned about heat application; also for adding length and volume |
The Application Process
Regardless of whether warm or cold fusion is chosen, the application requires precision and expertise:
- Sectioning: The stylist carefully sections off small, uniform pieces of the wearer's natural hair. These sections are typically no wider than the bond of the extension strand itself.
- Placement: The pre-tipped extension strand is placed close to the scalp, directly underneath the section of natural hair.
- Bonding (Warm Fusion):
- A small heat gun is used to gently melt the keratin or glue bond on the extension tip.
- As the bond softens, the stylist expertly rolls and molds it around the natural hair section, creating a tiny, durable bond that securely fuses the extension to the natural hair.
- Bonding (Cold Fusion):
- A small copper cylinder (also known as a micro-ring or micro-bead) is threaded onto the small section of natural hair using a looping tool.
- The pre-tipped extension strand is then inserted into the same copper cylinder alongside the natural hair.
- Using specialized pliers, the stylist gently but firmly presses the copper cylinder flat, clamping the extension hair and natural hair together without heat.
Benefits of Strand by Strand Extensions
- Natural Look and Feel: Because extensions are applied to individual strands, they move and blend seamlessly with your natural hair, offering a very realistic appearance.
- Versatility in Styling: The individual bonds allow for greater flexibility in styling, including updos and ponytails, without revealing the extensions.
- Durability: When applied correctly, these extensions can last for several months with proper care.
- Customization: The method allows for precise placement and mixing of colors to achieve a perfectly matched look.
While requiring a significant time investment for application and maintenance, the strand by strand method remains a top choice for those seeking a high-quality, long-lasting, and natural hair extension solution.
