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Biggest Myths about Cylinder Extensions

You know better than us that there is a huge misconception about cylinder extensions being the most damaging due to misinformation. We want to talk about the most asked questions and reduce some of the anxiety that comes with installing this application type.

Please note that all statements made here regarding cylinder extensions are from hair experts.

It's true that this method may be damaging, but we all know that any method can be damaging if installed incorrectly.

The room for error is big when installing micro-links, because there isn't a lot of education around this method.

Education should come from experienced extensionists with behind-the-chair experience no matter what method is being taught.

There are multiple reasons extensions can be damaging, like tight tension, over directions or unequal weight distribution.

Let's first talk about what micro-links are and how they are installed.

"This is a medium maintenance style and should be touched up every 5-8 weeks," According to Galore Magazine. "It will be tight on the root for a few days which may be uncomfortable for most, but it doesn’t last long. If you have super fine hair your texture may be too soft and the links will easily slip out or won’t last as long as someone with a thicker texture.”

What Might Happen If Cylinders Are Installed Incorrectly?

1. If attached improperly, they can cause damage to the client's natural hair. Micro-links can cause tension and damage if applied to tightly to the scalp, which can result in an itchy and painful scalp.

2. During grow out, the extensions will hang on by a strand If enough hair isn't put in the section to hold the extensions.

3. They are hard to sleep in, and the client can feel the links on their head.

4. If the client wets their hair, the micro-links will feel like bricks on their head.

What Are the Benefit's of Cylinder Extensions?

It's important to know the difference between the applications, even if you don't specialize in all the methods. You should also educate your clients so they make the correct decisions. Here are some of the benefits of having cylinder extensions:

1. Cylinder extensions can be worn longer, which makes them lower maintenance. The average recommended time to wear them is 2-3 months before you have to go back to your stylist for maintenance.

2. Cylinders, micro-links and i-tips are individuals. Individual extensions are less likely to be noticed when styling hair.

3. When wearing cylinder extensions, your client can go swimming, get a head massage, use any products, wear high ponytails, get a root touch-up and much more.

3. Micro-links have a 1:1 equal weight. Equal weight ratio means that the amount of hair you apply the extensions to is the same as the extensions itself. Pain does not come from the copper links; it comes from the tight tension and over-direction of the roots. Extensions should never be painful!

4. With Hair & Compounds, the tip is permanent and won't crack or shed no matter how many times it has been used.

5. With Hair & Compounds, the tip will remain strong and flexible and can be reshaped back into a cylinder.

How Can Switching to Cylinder Benefit Someone Who Wears Polymer?

Cylinder and polymer applications are both individuals. They feel similar to one another. There are some reasons why cylinder might be better for certain clients:

1. Micro-links are applied with no heat or glue, which means no solvent is used for removal. Micro-links are easier and quicker to remove. All you have to do to install micro-links is section, insert and squeeze.

2. There is no residue from micro-link removal, like there could be from tape or glue.

3. Microlinks are 100% reusable.

4. Clients don't have to use a special shampoo with cylinders. They can use hair products on their roots without compromising the attachments.

Which clients shouldn't wear extensions?

Clients who should not wear cylinder extensions are clients who shouldn't wear any extensions. Clients whose hair is so sparse you can see their scalp are not good candidates for any method. Please consult with an educated stylist if your client has any serious hair conditions.