Hair Extension Q&A: Do Fusion/Glue-In Extensions Damage Your Hair?

At Donna Bella, this is a question we get a lot. In fact, generally speaking, there’s a lot of concern in our industry about whether or not hair extensions as a whole are particularly bad for hair long-term. The short answer is no! Fusion extensions can be perfectly safe for most hair types, but the long answer involves a little bit more of an in-depth look at a few different considerations. Some general rules of thumb are:

• Have a professional stylist install, move up, and remove the extensions.
• Use quality hair, and the right products.
• Follow proper care techniques (as outlined here).
• Understand the pros and cons to each different hair extension method.

Whether you’re a licensed stylist yourself, or just a DIY-happy beauty maven, the easiest way for hair to get damaged, especially with the fusion method, is to try doing it at home. Fusion, or glue-in, hair extensions use keratin bonds that are melted, formed, and re-hardened around the hair in individual strands.

This equates to several hours of careful work, the use of hot tools (with a lot of back and forth motion), and close attention to detail that can be nearly impossible to see on your own head, even with a good mirror. Do yourself a favor, head to a local salon and stylist that you trust, and let them do it for you.

Don’t Skimp On Your Investment

Not all hair extensions are created equal. This is especially true of fusion hair extensions. Beyond the differences that lie in whether or not hair is virgin or 100% remy, different application methods that fall into the “fusion” category can have their unique benefits or drawbacks.

If the glue or fusion bonds used are low quality, you could experience significant slippage or extensions that don’t last as long as they should. If you use an ineffective bond remover, you risk damage to the hair during move up appointments, and a generally unpleasant experience for yourself or your client during the removal process.

Caring for the Hair Properly

Follow the right care routine to make sure you don’t end up with tangling, slippage, matting, or any other unfortunate results of improper care.

This includes making sure to brush correctly, protecting your hair against heat (and avoiding it as often as possible), using sulfate-free products, and more. Care specific to fusion extensions is outlined further in the blog we linked to earlier!

Understand Your Hair

This is a big one. Again, if installed correctly, fusion extensions should almost never damage your hair, but it’s still good to know your hair well enough to make a decision that’s best for you.

For example, if your hair has been damaged by heat or products, a fusion method might also be less than beneficial. Consult your stylist about the method that’s best for you, and any special considerations you might think of based on your usual hair care routine.

Have a question or concern? Let us know in the comments or on social media! To see the colors, lengths, and styles of our Kera-Link extensions, and experience the Donna Bella difference, head over to our fusion extension page!