Hair trends come and go, but one beauty secret has staying power. Once reserved for celebrities and special occasions, today’s hair extensions have become an everyday option for anyone chasing extra length, fuller volume, or simply a confidence boost.
Hair extensions can transform your style without being noticeable. Choosing the proper technique and properly caring for them makes all the difference. Just ask Evelyn Kershaw, a hair stylist who has spent her career helping clients find their perfect look. With nearly four decades of experience under her belt, her own salon, and three generations of stylists in the family, Kershaw has seen extension techniques evolve from obvious add-ons to seamless, natural-looking enhancements.
If you’re considering extensions, Kershaw says the first step is identifying what works for your lifestyle, as each technique offers pros and cons. After trying countless methods, Kershaw says the most popular for all lifestyles is the weft technique. Unlike individual strand methods, weft extensions consist of rows of hair that are sewn, beaded, or otherwise attached to the natural hair in continuous sections. Because they distribute weight across the scalp, they often feel most comfortable while providing the impressive volume and length you seek. Weft extensions can also be customized for different hair types and styling goals, making them one of today’s most requested extension options.
Getting beautiful extensions is only the beginning of the transformation. Keeping them healthy and maintaining their natural appearance requires consistent at-home care and regular salon touch-ups. When asked about the number one advice she’d offer clients for extensions maintenance, Kershaw immediately answered “brushing.” Having a quality extension brush and frequently using it helps prevent tangles before they become too difficult to remove. Supporting the hair near the attachment points also reduces unnecessary tension that could loosen the extensions over time.
Proper washing techniques are equally important. Sulfate-free shampoos and ultra-moisturizing conditioners help preserve the quality of the extension hair without drying it out. Avoid aggressive scrubbing near the attachment points, and gently massage the scalp while allowing shampoo to flow through the hair instead.
One surprising maintenance tip Kershaw mentioned is sunscreen’s effect on the extension hair. In the summer months, it’s important to avoid using sunscreen that contains Avobenzone and Octocrylene, as they can discolor lighter extension shades, sometimes leaving unwanted pink or orange tones behind. Kershaw encourages clients to be mindful when choosing and applying sunblock around the hairline to protect extensions during long days outdoors.
Moderation also pays off when heat styling. While many high-quality extensions can be curled, straightened, and styled like natural hair, using a heat protectant and keeping styling tools at moderate temperatures helps preserve softness and shine. Less heat means longer results.
Regular maintenance appointments are equally essential. As the natural hair grows, attachment points move farther from the scalp and need professional adjustment. While it’s tempting to put off getting an adjustment as long as possible, having a regular schedule makes the extensions look more natural and easier to maintain. To help clients stay on schedule, Kershaw’s salon offers an extensions membership program that encourages consistent maintenance, making it easier to avoid waiting too long between appointments and keeping extensions looking their best year-round.
Kershaw believes beautiful hair starts with education as much as technique. From expert color-matching to teaching clients how to care for their investment at home, Kershaw knows lasting results come from a partnership between client and stylist. With the right extensions, thoughtful maintenance, and guidance from experienced professionals, great hair doesn’t have to be left to genetics.
To learn more or make an appointment, visit www.EvelynKershawSalon.com or call 972.612.4159.
Evelyn Kershaw believes beautiful hair starts with education as much as technique.