Hair Extensions: The Difference Between Hot Fusion and Cold Fusion

Have you ever been to the hair salon to have hair extensions attached to your hair and you were asked if you wanted a hot fusion or a cold fusion? Did it make you wonder what in the world does physics have to do with hair extensions?

Have you researched hair extension terminology and you were completely unsure of the meaning behind hot fusion and cold fusion? Maybe it is the first time you are hearing these terms and the difference between the two baffles you.

This post should help clarify these types of hair extensions as well as share some additional information about hair extensions in general. Hot fusion hair extensions and cold fusion hair extensions are both great ways to add volume and length to your hair. However, there is a slight difference between the two types of applications. If you are interested in learning more about the hair extension process, this post will share everything you need to know before making an appointment at your favorite salon.

First, let’s get familiar with the two types of hair extensions.

Hot Fusion Hair Extensions

Hot fusion is a strand method where the hair extensions are attached at the keratin based tips of your hair with a heating element or tool. Keratin is the protein compound present in our hair and it will fuse to the extension with heat. Hot fusion extensions are also known as tip hair extensions or keratin hair extensions. They are applied to your natural hair in small sections with a heated keratin based adhesive. The process is similar to applying regular glue to your hair except it is gentler and healthier for your hair because it is composed of 90% keratin. 

The process of applying hot fusion hair extensions takes approximately 3 hours and the hot fusion hair extensions will last about 2 to 4 months. Once your hot fusion hair extensions have been applied, you can style your hair practically any way that you prefer. The extensions work in updos, half up-half down styles, high or low ponytails, and buns. The styling possibilities are virtually endless.

Cold Fusion Hair Extensions

Cold fusion is also a strand method of application where small sections of your hair are woven through a micro link tube. This type of hair extension is also called micro link extensions, micro loop extensions, or i-tip extensions. The extensions are applied using weaving tools and pliers to entwine the small sections of hair.

Cold fusion hair extensions are a gentler alternative to the adhesive based hot fusion extensions. Heat is not needed to apply the extensions to your hair which minimizes the chance of heat damage to your natural hair. A heatless hair extension method attaches the hair extensions through the use of an ultrasound applicator. Cold fusion hair extensions are specifically designed to be more gentle on your natural hair as compared to hot fusion hair extensions.

Besides the different methods of application (cold vs. hot) between these two types of hair extensions, there a few other differences in the application process between the two popular keratin hair extensions.

Applications

Differences between hot and cold fusion keratin hair extension applications.

Application process for hot fusion extensions. (Keep in mind that generally you need someone else to apply these extensions for you. It is very difficult to do on yourself.)

• Step 1: Section the hair from the bottom tips to the top of the head.
• Step 2: Twist the strands of hair to ease the placing of pre-tipped hair extensions.
• Step 3: Place the pre-tipped hair extensions under the hair and hold it in place with one hand.
• Step 4: Place the hair connector tool under the hair and roll the fused part of the hair with your fingers, trying not to close it up tightly.
• Step 5: Finally, refrain from applying shampoo or conditioner to the hair for at least 24 hours after the hair extensions have been applied.

Application process for cold fusion extensions.

• Step 1: Section off the hair from the bottom tips of the hair to the top of the head.
• Step 2: Insert a pulling needle through the tube.
• Step 3: Grab a portion of hair with the pulling needle and slide the portion of hair through the tube. 
• Step 4: Hold the tube 1/2 to 1 inch away from the scalp and insert pre-tipped hair through the tube.
• Step 5: Flatten the tube and repeat these steps until the whole head is completed.

Those are the simple differences between hot and cold fusion hair extension application. There is no tape or glue or anything involved other than the extensions themselves and a few easy to follow steps. You can find hair extensions with a low price point if you don’t want to spend a lot of money to try them. And the application tools are also affordable.

Whichever application method you prefer, keratin hair extensions will provide you with a flawless look free from the bumps and bulges that can appear with sewn in hair extensions. If you have been wanting to try a longer hair style without waiting for your hair to grow, hair extensions are an easy way to have some fun with your hair. Give it a shot and rock your new hairstyle with confidence.

Have you ever tried hair extensions? Which methods have you used? What was your experience?

Keeping it on the edge,

Shelbee

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