There are two common ways to use extensions to change up your hairstyle: hot and cold extensions. Selecting between them can be a little difficult if you’re not familiar with how each method adds length and volume to your hair in a different way.
Heat is used to fuse hot hair extensions—also referred to as keratin or fusion extensions—to your natural hair. A keratin-based adhesive is melted during this procedure and then applied to your hair strands. For a long-lasting effect, the heat helps keep the extensions in place.
Conversely, heat is not used in the process of applying cold hair extensions, which includes techniques like tape-in, clip-in, and micro-link extensions. Rather, they use alternative methods to affix the extensions, like glue strips or tiny beads. These techniques are frequently chosen because they are simpler to apply and remove.
You can make a more informed choice if you are aware of the benefits and potential drawbacks of each technique and how they operate. To determine which type of extension might be ideal for your hair goals, let’s explore the ins and outs of hot and cold extensions.
| Hot Hair Extensions | Cold Hair Extensions |
| Use heat to bond extensions to natural hair. | No heat is used; instead, they use adhesive or other methods. |
| Typically last 3-6 months with proper care. | Can last 6-12 months or longer depending on the method. |
| Can be quicker to apply but may cause damage to hair. | Generally gentler on the hair but might take longer to apply. |
| Requires regular maintenance and adjustments. | Less frequent maintenance needed; easier to remove. |
- The essence of hot and cold extensions
- Types of hot extensions
- Types of cold extensions
- Cost
- Which technique is more difficult
- Pros and cons
- Cold method
- Hot method
- Contraindications
- Features
- Video on the topic
- What is the difference between cold extensions and hot?
- What is the difference between hot hair extensions and cold – we compare both methods
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The essence of hot and cold extensions
The effect of high temperatures on adhesive compounds—which are used to attach artificial strands to natural ones—is what sets hot hair extensions apart. There is a greater need for this kind of lengthening and volume increase.
Heat treatment is not necessary when using the cold method. Since the technology is thought to be more gentle, it is advised for weak and thin hairs.
Types of hot extensions
Hot, contemporary extensions that use secure techniques are common.
- English. The technology consists of gluing non-native strands to natural ones with a special gun. When heated, resin is released from it, with the help of which the master connects both curls, forming a small resin capsule. Visually, the junction is almost invisible, but it is easily felt. Thermal treatment here is gentle, but the temperature also affects natural strands. Minus – possible combing of the capsule, you can not visit saunas, baths. Otherwise, the curls will begin to peel off.
- Italian. More popular. In the process, the strands are connected using a keratin capsule heated with tongs. Pros – the use of keratin, similar to the structure of natural hair; the ability to experiment with the color of the hair without resorting to dyeing; the extended strands are almost invisible. Minus – you should avoid getting masks, balms on the capsules, and also protect them from heating. Otherwise they can soften, and the hair will begin to fall out.
Suggestions. An expert master must complete the work if the extended curls are to look nice, stay in place, and not break.
Types of cold extensions
Cold extensions are also quite popular; they can be done with glue, metal rings, braiding, or ultrasound. Everything relies on the method employed.
- Spanish. The connection is made with glue, which, when dry, forms a strong capsule. The disadvantage of the method is that the dried glue becomes lighter and noticeable. Therefore, the Spanish method is suitable only for owners of light hair.
- Using metal beads (Japanese). The connection is made with small beads, into the hole of which both types of strands are threaded, and the bead itself is firmly compressed. The disadvantage is that the beads are visible, they cool down a lot in the cold season. The advantage is that chemical compounds are not used.
- Ribbon. Layers of artificial curls are glued to natural hair. The adhesive part is similar to double-sided tape. Pros – a quick way. Cons – the hairs do not “breathe” under the glue, the joints are visible.
- Using braids. There are two techniques: Brazilian – natural and extended strands are intertwined; African – a braid is woven from native curls, to which tresses from artificial ones are sewn. The disadvantage of the Brazilian method is the duration of the procedure, the African method – noticeable sewn-on areas. The advantages of both methods – the absence of chemical compounds.
- Ultrasonic. Similar to the Italian capsule. Only here, instead of hot tongs, an ultrasonic device is used, which melts keratin with ultrasound.
Cost
The following sum can be charged for the procedure using the best hair (Slavic):
- Capsule (hot). 100 strands (length 40 cm) – about 17 thousand rubles, 200 strands (the same length) – 34 thousand rubles. And if the length is 70 cm, the cost will be about 18 and 36 thousand, respectively.
- Tape (cold). 40 tapes with a length of 40 cm – about 12 thousand rubles. The same length with 80 tapes – 24 thousand. 70 cm and 40 tapes – 20.5 thousand, 70 cm and 80 tapes – almost 50 thousand.
Which technique is more difficult
It’s sufficient to think about the fundamentals of the process to comprehend the differences between hot extensions.
Here, the work is lengthy and requires the use of smaller strands. It is important to make sure that the natural hair is securely attached to the extensions. To avoid damaging the natural hair’s structure, it’s critical to accurately ascertain the tool’s ideal heating temperature for each client.
The work will take at least two hours to complete. However, the cold technique is executed more quickly. Even so, some methods—such as Brazilian and ultrasonic—also require a lot of time.
Pros and cons
Cold method
Benefits
- the hair is not exposed to thermal effects;
- in most cases, chemical compounds are not used;
- can be dyed, styled;
- easy correction;
- you can use any cosmetics;
- not afraid of temperature changes;
- no allergic reactions (in techniques where weaving is used).
Drawbacks:
- discomfort from beads or rings;
- when using beads, native curls rub and get damaged;
- hair is combed out;
- connections are visible;
- frequent correction is necessary.
Hot method
Benefits
- strands look neat and almost natural;
- strong attachment;
- long-lasting effect;
- ability to create any hairstyle, as the capsules are almost invisible;
- suitable for any length over 8 cm;
- can be used on bangs, temples and other visible areas.
Drawbacks:
- exposure to high temperatures;
- limitation in the use of cosmetics;
- keratin capsules should be protected from heating;
- owners of resin capsules should not visit saunas;
- duration of the procedure;
- capsules may slip off.
Contraindications
- the procedure should not be used during antibiotic and chemotherapy;
- with increased hair loss;
- with scalp diseases;
- age under 16 years (there is a risk of damaging the hair).
Features
- the hot method should not be used on thin hair;
- hot technique is not suitable for owners of oily scalp, since fat destroys the capsules.
Regarding the inquiry of which hair extension should take precedence, each case is unique. Although hot hair extension is more aesthetically pleasing and dependable than cold technique, cold hair extension is safer. The most crucial factor is that the procedure be performed by a qualified expert who can professionally apply the extension, protect the hair from damage, and recommend the best course of action.
What information is crucial for people who wish to grow out their hair?
- Is it harmful to extend hair.
- In what cases can you extend bangs.
- How long do hair extensions last.
- How and how to remove hair extensions at home.
- How to care for hair extensions.
- How to restore hair after extensions.
Your personal preferences and hair goals will ultimately determine whether you choose hot or cold hair extensions. Heat is used to fuse hot extensions to your natural hair, creating a strong hold that is frequently chosen for its enduring effects. If this method is not used correctly or if your hair is heat-sensitive, it may cause damage.
Conversely, cold extensions provide a more delicate method. They don’t use heat when using adhesives or clips, so your natural hair may be less harmed. If you want a less intrusive or more transient solution, this might be the best choice for you. Although cold extensions can yield excellent results as well, they might not last as long and might need to be adjusted more frequently than hot extensions.
Ultimately, the choice between hot and cold hair extensions comes down to what fits your lifestyle and hair type best. If you’re willing to invest in the heat-based method for longer-lasting results, it could be worth considering. If you prefer a gentler approach with easier removal and maintenance, cold extensions might be the ultimate solution for you. Either way, both methods offer unique benefits that can help you achieve the perfect look.
Knowing the difference between hot and cold techniques when selecting hair extensions can help you get the best results. Although they provide a more permanent solution, hot extensions carry a risk of heat damage because they are bonded to your natural hair using heat. Conversely, cold extensions use heat-avoiding adhesives or other methods; as a result, they may be less secure but also less harmful. The benefits and drawbacks of each method will be covered in detail in this article so you can make an informed choice that fits your lifestyle, hair type, and style.
