Are Hair Extensions Responsible For Splitting Headaches & Baldness?

Thicker, fuller hair overnight is a promise very few women can pass up. The instant gratification of hair extensions — the process of having faux or human hair woven, braided, or glued on to the scalp or existing hair — is undeniably alluring. Yet, the world of weaves proves that trusted old adage: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Hair extensions, whether applied using a weaving or gluing technique, are now being identified as potentially damaging to the scalp...in a permanent way. Tight braids can lead to headaches, too-heavy hair can create traction alopecia (or rubbing the scalp raw), and having hair sewn is often a painful process. Because the prices (and quality) have such a huge range, it appears that women might opt for a cheaper process that isn't quite right for their hair. The Daily Mail quotes Chicago cosmetologist Grace Santiler-Nowik, who is also the president of the Professional Beauty Association's Professional Council: "It's not something you tread into lightly. People want their hair thick and long, but they forget there's a whole upkeep portion of it they have to maintain."

While extensions are fun and can be done well, it's best to work on finding the right type of faux-hair for your locks. Also, getting longer, fuller hair isn't just about paying the money to have it done — upkeep is required. The bottom line is, getting a head full of faux hair isn't just as simple as fixing your weave, no matter what Missy Elliot might tell you.