before & afters using hair extensions
Hair extensions are an addiction I just can't shake. It's been years since I've had them in, but guess who fell off the wagon again? Throughout my 10+ year career as a beauty writer, I've tried different brands and methods for adding some fullness (and occasional length) to my otherwise super fine hair – bonds, tape ins and clip ins. At different points in my life, different methods have worked, but the one I keep returning to are Great Lengths tape ins.
Enter Jan Marie Arteca of Broome & Beauty in Soho. I first met Jan years ago when she was working at the Ted Gibson Salon were she introduced me to Great Lengths bonded extensions (see post here and here and here's one that explains everything you need to know if you're thinking about getting them). I was instantly hooked not just on the added hair, but also on working with Jan. She's been doing my color for about the past six years and has been my saving grace when it comes to times I just need more hair.
This time, we opted to use GL Apps by Great Lengths, which are tape ins that come in about 2" strands. I've had these before and have found that they are by far the best for my hair. The quality of hair Great Lengths offers has been incomparable to anything else I've tried and the tiny tape ins are just easier, because they take less time than the bonded to put in, there's less stress on my real hair and they're reusable. Yes, once these grow away from my root, I can easily have them removed and taped back up top.
After Jan put in two packs (10 pieces), I felt like a new person, but my look wasn't complete until my long time hairstylist (and wedding day stylist), Liam Carey, got involved. He cut them dry up a bit longer than my natural length and gave me what he calls, kitty cat bangs. I love my new look and thanks to how much fun I have working with Jan and Liam, don't mind the addiction.
