Let’s talk about temporary weaves for a second. Great if they’re clipped-in, painful and time consuming if they’re braided and sewn-in, and damned annoying if they’re glued-in. Most female models (and probably some guys too) will have the privilege to work with glued-in extensions at some point in their career and then be faced with the horrific aftermath.
The truth is, the hair stylist probably doesn’t give too much of a crap (to put it mildly) about your hair after the shoot. If they did, they’d have chosen clip-ins, which are more time consuming on their end. Instead they opt for the easy route, not really caring that you’re going to feel like a human flytrap in a few hours.
The application process itself is fine. It’s the days upon days of removal where the real #struggle happens. The stylist will most likely want to get the extensions back at the end of the day so they’ll help you remove the hair and without a doubt some of your own will come along with it. No rose coloured glasses here, it really hurts. You’ll undoubtedly be comforted with a false sense of security that they will, “just slip right out with a dab of olive oil when you get home.” But don’t be fooled my friend. Along with a ‘dab of olive oil’ you’ll also need:
A VAT of coconut oil (other oils are acceptable but I at least like to imagine my struggle happening in the tropics) or a bonding glue remover
A fine tooth comb
A good amount of shampoo and conditioner
Patience
You’re going to want to start the removal process by completely coating your scalp in oil. If you’re using coconut oil, warm medium amounts in your hands until it melts into a liquid. Start massaging the lubricant into your hair. Once the glue starts to relax a bit, it’ll become very sticky and stretchy. The idea is to break down the glue until you can gently comb it out. This takes a lot of oil, massaging, and a real can-do attitude. Once you think you’ve combed it all out, wash your hair with lots of shampoo and conditioner and let it air dry.
You will then be quick to discover there’s still glue in your hair. Repeat this process. Still some glue left and your shoot was days ago? Not surprising. Keep up the above steps with the faith that one day your head will truly be glue-free. We also recommend watching a good television show to distract yourself from the pain — now is a good time to sign up for Netflix if you haven’t already.
The aftermath of getting extensions is just one of the many prices we pay for beauty in this industry. Try your best to remain confident that one day you’ll have a clean head again. We have our fingers crossed for you.
