Hi aechain!
Welcome to our obsession!
Your hair is gorgeous, so you definitely don't want to ruin it. I have hair about your length, but it's fine (lots of of it though) and wavy. A lot like yours actually. I have had wonderful success with the protac method with a bit of liquid gold for reinforcement. Except now I use supertape, which holds for 4 weeks or longer. I found protac breaking down and getting gooey after only a couple of weeks. I LOVE LOVE LOVE supertape. I can wash and condition alllllll my hair - even the bonds and they don't fall out! I'm a complete convert altough its a bit annoying to work with. Totally worth the extra patience though. I wouldn't use the clip ins. I tried them and I found the clips pulled my hair out and hurt - and they looked a bit fake. I haven't tried the shrinkies or any of the other methods, I'm happy with the tape.
Anyway, definitely follow nursies advice and use the protac demo link. That is how I learned to do my own extensions and it really is sooooo easy, especially once you get the hang of it. The tape (even the supertape) (which you can purchase from http://www.truetape.com - www.truetape.com ) comes out super easily with an oil based remover. I don't have any issue with the citrus remover at all, although some users find it a bit harsh. I have sensitive skin and I thought for sure I would react to it, but I don't. You can also use olive oil, although I personally find it takes them longer to come out using olive oil. It's a nice conditioning treatment for your hair though! I have found the protac to be very non-damaging and my hair has bounced back beautifully when I take out my bonds. As a note of warning - you will experience some hair loss but DON'T PANIC. I had a major panic one night after taking out my bonds - I thought I had lost a lot of hair (I saw it going down the drain in the shower) and ended up in silent tears. However, once my hair was dry, I realized it was just the natural hair loss from 2 weeks of wearing my extensions. I also have learned to be very patient and never ever tug on my hair when I'm taking them out.
It really is a matter of taking all the advice on the forum and trying out methods that work best for you. I, like you, felt like I was overwhelmed with information when I first started. I just tried the tape and different kinds of hair until I found something that worked for me. I'm now addicted (my husband accuses me of having a love affair with my extensions) but I've got it down 30 - 45 mins to get the tracks done and 40 mins to install.
Finally, as nursie suggested, I would also suggest you buy good quality hair. I've tried everthing from wawa & elite thermo to indian remi, and I'm sticking with the indian remi. I found a great supplier on ebay. Actually, I owe everyone here an update on my latest install with pics!
Good luck!!! Everyone here on the forum is wonderful and I'm sure you'll find you'll be a pro in no time!
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