Hello Long Hair!

I’ve always been someone who has had pretty low maintenance hair. With the exception of balayage highlight touch ups and trims a few times a year, paired with hair that can go a good 5 days without washing, I consider myself lucky!

Because my natural hair is more on the fine side, I have played with the idea of extensions in the past for some additional volume. Clip ins were the extent of my trials until Hair by Lauren Burnside approached me about giving NBR Extensions a try. After much conversation and research to make sure I was informed, I decided to take the plunge.

Let me tell you. Best. Decision. Ever!

Here’s why: It has significantly decreased the time it takes me to get ready in the morning and has made my natural hair healthier (less heat, less product) and grow longer.

Q&A

Today I’m giving you the inside scoop and answering your questions on all things extensions!

What kind of hair extensions did you get?

Natural Beaded Rows™ Hair Extensions are an exclusive hair extension method created by Danielle K. White of DKW Styling. The hair extensions are placed in rows in the hair by creating a “track” with an exclusive bead and string technique. Wefts are then placed on the track and sewn in. The extensions are then cut and blended to create a natural and beautiful look!

As opposed to other extension methods, NBR offers:

• Less points of contact
• Smaller beads lay comfortable and flat
• Placement is more comfortable and easier to put up because its U shape it’s more natural.
• Quality hair is used for a better overall experience
• Hair is sewn around thread and not your hair insuring a more comfortable wear and less stress to the hair as other all other methods stitch thru your hair
• Custom colored extensions to match the clients hair which is also custom colored
• NBR offers constant continuing education on the method and pre-training before even getting certified so stylists are well-informed and educated

Where did you get your extensions?

Hair by Lauren Burnside – Lauren is an independent contractor who does all of her booking. To book a consultation for extensions, fill out the NBR survey (visit the link in her Instagram bio) as it answers many questions to help with the process.

You can also book color, cut and styling services through Lauren as well!

• Instagram: hairbylauren.burnside 
• Salon: Located Downtown Indianapolis at Kathryns Bridal Bar 
• Discount: Be sure to mention Everyday Raleigh Tay to save on your extension services!

What is the installation process/how are they attached?

NBR is a bead and thread method – a track is made and handtied wefts are placed over the track and stitched to the track. While the process of initial installation takes 2-3 hours, it is well worth is my friend! This includes:

• Consultation on extensions, the process and everything that will be done to your hair during the appointment
• Color, highlight, tone, etc. based on your desired outcome
• NBR installation
• Wash, dry, cut, blend and style!

What lengths do the extensions come in? Can those with short hair wear them?

Hair can be purchased in 18” to 22” but Lauren will take care of this for you! Absolutely! Anyone can be a candidate for extensions – short hair, long hair, thin, thick, it’s more a matter of what your hair goals are and what you’re looking to achieve with extensions.

Can you tell you have extensions/see them?

Not at all! In order to ensure the perfect blend, my hair was colored in a certain way so that no matter what, the blend is seamless. My goal was to walk out feeling like I still had my natural hair look/feel, just elevated a bit! (Goal accomplished!)

Specifically on my hair, I received a combination of low lights, babylights and teased foilyage to create a natural blend. I had some areas that needed blending in general and her underneath was all dark/one color and needed to be broken up. Lauren finished with a toner to seal the cuticle after lightening. (No filter photo below.)

What is the cost?

Most first time clients can expect to pay around $1,000-$2,200+ and this is based on desired length and number of rows needed for the best results. This is of course different for everyone and dependent on multiple factors which is why an initial pre-consultation is so important so you can feel informed going into your first visit.

For specific pricing questions, contact Laurn Burnside

How frequent do you need to re-visit the salon for maintenance?

Follow up appointments are needed about every 6-8 weeks for lifting, depending on your hair. Costs vary for each appointment.

Do NBR Extensions damage your hair?

With proper care and maintenance, not at all!

The question of whether or not your natural hair can get damaged seems to be a common conversation around extensions. Before learning more about the NBR method, I also had my concerns. However! From my experience, if you make your hair a priority and treat it with proper care (just like you would with your skin, exercising, your diet, etc.) it will actually help your natural hair grow!

Can you brush your hair normally?

Yes! Brushing is extremely important when having extensions to ensure the hair doesn’t get tangled or matted.

I try to take a good 5 minutes each night before going to bed to really brush through my hair (starting at the ends and working up) and generally sleep in a loose bun or braid.

Are there any styling restrictions that come with having extensions?

I have not experienced any down sides in terms of styling with my extensions – in fact I can now do more with having more hair!

What products are recommended for extensions?

A good shampoo and conditioner, daily use of hair oil and a good hairbrush!

Here’s a few of my favorites below:

• Living Proof Restore Shampoo + Conditioner
• Biolage R.A.W. Nourish Shampoo + Conditioner 
• Kevin Murphy Hydrate-Me Wash + Rinse
• Wet Brush
• Living Proof Dry Shampoo
• Kristin Ess Dry Conditioner
• How do you wash and care for extensions?

It’s recommended to shampoo no more than 2-3 per week. Personally, I can go a full week to 10 days in between washes. However! That doesn’t mean neglecting the hair in-between that time. I apply hair oil each day and take time to brush to ensure it gets evenly distributed throughout the extensions.

Here’s a quick run down of my routine for you!

On hair washing day:

• Mask – I oftentimes apply a hair mask to my dry hair and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before jumping in the shower (while I catch up on laundry or scroll through Pinterest :))
• Shampoo – massaging gently where the extensions are placed but still ensuring that all the hair around gets a good wash
• Condition – I focus the conditioner on the mid to bottom portion of my hair, especially the extensions and let it soak in for a minute or two (if possible, I try to rinse with cold water)
• Apply Detangler + Brush – I’ve enjoyed using the X detangling spray and I would highly recommend a Wet Brush
• Apply Hair Oil/Heat Protectant – this is a must! Because extensions do not receive the oils that your natural hair produces, it’s important to take care of them even more than you would your natural hair. I like the X hair oil and the Moroccanoil Hair Treatment
• Air Dry – When possible, I try to let my hair air dry before applying heat. It’s usually about 75% dry by the time I touch my hair dryer
• Blow Dry – Because extensions do take longer to dry, my Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer has been life changing! I highly recommend it.
• Curl + Style – And last but not least, I curl my hair with the T3 Convertible Wand

Can I go swimming and do activities with my NBR Hair Extensions?

This is a common question and yes, you can swim and do activities with extensions. It’s recommended to wear in a loose braid or ponytail.

                                                                                           

Get Glowing!

A frequently asked question I receive from all of you is what tanning products I use and how I achieve my tan on a regular basis. Today I’m sharing just that!

Everyone feels a little bit more confident with a bronzed glow, am I right?! I thought as we’re starting to head into the winter months, what better time to share, because these products can be used all year round!

Keep reading for insight on my tanning routine, favorite products and some tips and tricks!

Products I Use At Home

When it comes to self tanning at home, I’ve tried several of the most popular products and found these to work best for my skin. Things I look for are, application, smell, natural color and longevity.

To prep the skin, I shower, exfoliate (my current favorite is the Raw Sugar Coconut and Mango Body Scrub) and begin with clean, dry skin.

As a lotion formula, Tanceuticals Color Correct Lotion in Dark applies even to the skin and produces a nice natural color (no orange tints!). The coconut scent eliminates the self tanner smell which is one of my favorite things about this product! Also, the Tanceuticals line is vegan-friendly and doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients so it’s a win win for your skin.

Get 10% off any Tanceuticals purchase with code RALEIGH10 

I’ve also found the Loving Tan 2 Hours Express Mousse is great if you are short on time. St. Tropez’s Classic Bronzing Mousse is another good option but in my opinion, it has a bit more of a tanning smell to it.

For application, I prefer to use this mitt,  this mitt, or a kabuki body brush to apply the tanning product directly to them, then blend in circular motions on the skin.

Face Self Tanners

When it comes to tanning my face I use the Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Drops in Medium and Dark depending on my tan at the moment. It’s super simple! Just mix a few drops with your moisturizer and massage in with your hands. (Make sure you wash them after!) You can adjust the intensity by how many drops are used – I generally stick to about 3. This bottle is great to travel with as well.

Isle of Paradise also has a Self Tanning Water which works great for your body with the easy spray applicator. I always make sure to blend in with a mitt after to decrease any potential streaking.

Quick Fact: These two products are on the Clean at Sephora list if that’s something you keep top of mind for your products.

For a deeper color, I use the Tanceuticals Color Correcting Face Lotion and apply with my hands or a face brush, separate from the one I use for my body.

I’ve found that both of these products work well and provide an even, natural looking color. While I do have somewhat sensitive skin, I haven’t had an issues with either causing breakouts.

Salon Spray Tanning

As you’ve probably seen me share several time on stories, I frequent my local Sun Tan City here in Indy – it’s my favorite way to get a quick glow!

Before going, I shower, exfoliate and apply primer to my whole body – the Designer Skin Sunless Primer is my favorite and it smells so good! I find it helps to let the primer soak in a little bit so I apply at home prior to going to the salon.

Always be sure to use the barrier cream available at the salon on more dry spots like elbows, knees and in-between your fingers/areas you don’t want the solution to collect and cause splotchiness.

My Sunless Tan Cocktail at Sun Tan City
Dark or Medium Clear Solution + Double Leg Pass + Hydration

The above is fool proof from my experience! I never have issues with streaking or unevenness and I can get in and out in 20 minutes.

I always opt for the clear solution so it doesn’t get on my clothes, sheets or the seats of my car. I stop in on a night when I do not have plans, keep it on overnight, then shower in the morning and boom I’m done.

Quick Fact: Did you know, if it’s raining out, a member of the STC team will escort you to your car with a big umbrella so your tan doesn’t wash offf? Such a nice perk! 

Tips & Tricks

• Exfoliate in the shower prior to self tanning + let your skin dry all the way
• To prevent any streaks or unevenness, avoid getting wet anywhere you applied self tanner until it is fully developed. (I recommend applying or getting a spray at night and rinsing off in the morning)
• For best application, use a Mitt or Body Brush
• To achieve a darker tan, apply in layers, waiting in between for the product to dry (or apply two days in a row until you achieve the color you want)
• Continue to moisturize your skin each day to help it last longer – my favorite right now is the Raw Sugar Coconut and Mango Body Lotion

The above applies when getting a spray tan as well, plus:

• Apply a Primer to clean, dry skin and let is soak in prior to your appointment
• Utilize the barrier cream available at the salon on knees, elbows and hands (don’t forget your fingernails and toenails to prevent nail polish discoloration
• To keep the bottoms on your feet from getting discolored, place a towel in the bottom of the sunless tanning booth under each foot
• Always wear loose fitting clothes after getting a spray tan

I hope this answers your questions and if not – feel free to come say hi on Instagram and shoot me a DM!

Happy tanning!

xoxo

Raleigh Tay