If you’ve ever considered getting hair extensions, chances are you’ve also heard a lot of myths about them. From “extensions will ruin your hair” to “they only look good on influencers,” misinformation is everywhere—and it’s holding a lot of women back from experiencing the confidence boost that extensions can bring.

At NOVA STRANDS Salon in Wilsonville, Oregon, we work with women from Portland metro area who are curious but hesitant because of these misconceptions. That’s why we’re here to set the record straight. 

Let’s dive into the 5 biggest myths about extensions and uncover the truth.

Myth #1: Extensions Damage Your Hair

This is probably the most common fear, and we get it—nobody wants to trade healthy hair for length and volume.

The Truth: Damage happens when extensions are applied incorrectly, poorly maintained, or removed improperly. At NOVA STRANDS, we use a beaded row method, which involves no glue, no tape, and no heat. The wefts are secured with small aluminum beads that evenly distribute weight, which means less stress on your natural hair.

In fact, many of our clients actually see their natural hair grow longer and healthier while wearing extensions, because they style it less often with hot tools.

Myth #2: Extensions Always Look Fake

We’ve all seen those bad extension jobs where you can spot the bonds from across the room or the color match is completely off. But here’s the thing: those aren’t luxury extensions, and they’re definitely not what we do at NOVA STRANDS.

The Truth: When extensions are custom-colored, perfectly placed, and properly blended, they’re nearly impossible to detect. Beaded rows sit flat against the scalp, and when styled, they move and flow just like your natural hair.

Our clients tell us their friends and family don’t even realize they have extensions until they share the secret.

Myth #3: Extensions Are Only for Long Hair

Sure, extensions are amazing for creating mermaid-length locks, but that’s only one use for them.

The Truth: Extensions are just as powerful for women who want to keep their current length but add volume, fullness, and thickness. If your ponytail feels a little thin or your hair has lost density from postpartum changes, weight loss, stress, or hormones, extensions can bring that fullness back.

At NOVA STRANDS, we design custom looks for women who want everything from subtle fullness to dramatic transformations.

Myth #4: Extensions Are Too Expensive

This one’s tricky, because yes, high-quality extensions are an investment. But let’s break it down.

The Truth: While other extension methods may look cheaper upfront ($300–$600 for hair + install), the frequent removal/reapplication and new hair purchases add up fast. For instance, if we look at a full tape in install, most clients end up spending 30–40% more per year on tape-ins than they expected.

Beaded row extensions, which we specialize in, start at $800–$1,500 for hair + install, but the hair is reusable for up to 12 months. Maintenance is cleaner, quicker, and more cost-effective. Over the course of a year, that makes them 20–30% more cost-effective compared to tape-ins.

✨ Extensions are an investment, but the right method saves you time and money long-term.

Myth #5: Extensions Are Too High-Maintenance

If you imagine spending hours every day babying your extensions, this one will surprise you.

The Truth: Once you know the basics, extensions are actually easy to manage. Here’s what you need to know:

• Washing: 2–3 times a week, just like natural hair.
  
• Styling: Beaded rows hold curls and waves longer, which means less daily heat styling. Plus, we have lots of ways to do heatless curls overnight that make getting ready in the morning a breeze.
  
• Working Out: Sweat and movement won’t budge your rows. Just wear a loose braid or a ponytail.
  
• Swimming: Beaded rows handle pools and ocean water better than tape-ins. Rinse before and after and apply a leave-in conditioner to keep the hair hydrated.
  

Many of our active clients say extensions actually make their routine easier.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Believe the Myths

Hair extensions aren’t damaging, fake-looking, or just for influencers. They’re a luxury beauty solution that can help you look and feel your best, whether you want to restore fullness after postpartum, add length for a special occasion, or finally achieve that dream hair you’ve been pinning on Pinterest.

At NOVA STRANDS Salon in Wilsonville, Oregon, we’re proud to serve women all across Portland, Tualatin, Lake Oswego, and surrounding Oregon communities with beaded row hair extensions. Our stylists specialize in creating looks that are safe, natural, and 100% customized for you.

Ready to See the Truth for Yourself?

Book a consultation at our Oregon hair salon today and find out why women across the PDX area are choosing NOVA STRANDS for hair extensions. Our team also offers hair color appointments, blonding, blowouts, smoothing treatments and more at our Wilsonville hair salon! Explore our salon menu and pricing here.