Hair story: extensions

There's nothing quite like hair extensions to increase your hair's volume and length. Fortunately, this technique is achievable in no time at all, which is why it is so popular. Here's the story behind its success.

How old are extensions?

The first hair extensions appeared in Egypt in Antiquity. Used to make wigs, they were used both by female and males. They were used as decorative finery and visible signs of wealth, adorned with gold and jewels. Furthermore, they allowed people to protect themselves against infection, from things such as head lice. Therefore, men shaved their heads and women wore them over short hair.

From the Middle Ages to the 19th century, extensions became less well known. In the West, the Church associated this technique with pure vanity. For several centuries therefore, the fashion was to have natural hair or to cover it with all kinds of accessories. Conversely, Asians started to work with human hair from the Middle Ages, making extensions, wigs and hair pieces.

The extensions of today

Using extensions made a comeback in the mid-20th century, when women wished to change their hairstyle as they pleased. Today, this technique has become both a highly popular and lucrative business around the world. Regarding products available on the market, there are all different kinds (natural, synthetic, semi-synthetic) from various origins (Asian, African, European). Finally, techniques were also perfected to respond to each need: hot/cold fusion extensions or clip-on extensions. You're spoilt for choice!