If you’ve ever thought, “hair extensions will ruin my hair” or “hair extensions always look fake,” you’re not alone. At Olivia Christensen Salon, located in the heart of New York City, I hear these hair extension myths almost every day.
In reality, these hair extension myths couldn’t be further from the truth. Modern extensions, when installed correctly (with the right technique and high-quality hair), are nothing short of life-changing. So let’s cut through the myths and get to the truth, to show you exactly how extensions can transform your everyday life.
And if you’re based in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or the Hamptons and seeking expert hair extensions, book a consultation today to discover how our unique technique can deliver flawless, natural-looking results.
Ready? Let’s jump right in. Here are the seven biggest lies you’ve been told about hair extensions – and the truth that you need to know before your next appointment.
Stop Believing These 7 Hair Extension Lies

Lie #1: Hair Extensions Ruin Your Hair
This is probably the most common hair extension myth – and the reason it’s so common is because it’s sometimes true. Hair extensions can ruin your hair. But in reality, they shouldn’t.
So, here’s the truth: When installed correctly, with premium-quality hair, extensions can actually help protect your natural hair.
At Olivia Christensen Salon, we use only the highest-quality, full-cuticle human hair for our extensions. We carefully select Slavic and Indian hair that’s lightweight and applied with precision, keeping your natural hair healthy and strong. Before every installation, we prep your hair with our OC Cleanse Shampoo to ensure bonds stay secure and minimize slippage.

Lie #2: Hair Extensions Always Look Fake
Once again, this can be true. There are hair extensions that look fake. These issues are usually due to the type of hair (such as synthetic hair) or the method used for installation.
Here’s the truth: Luxury hair extensions look seamless.
The “doll hair” you’ve likely seen? That’s usually mass-produced, synthetic, or low-grade hair that’s been imported from factories in China (or worse, created from hair that’s leftover on the floor of hair salons… more on that here).
Our extensions air-dry naturally – whether wavy, curly, or straight – so they blend seamlessly with your own hair. And because we use 100% natural, luxury hair, you’ll never get that artificial shine that comes from silicone-coated strands.

Lie #3: Extensions Are Only for Adding Length
In the past, I’ve heard from clients that they didn’t want hair extensions because they didn’t need any additional length… However, hair extensions aren’t just for length.
Here’s the truth: Hair extensions can be for length, but they can also be for volume, styling, or just overall confidence.
It’s no secret that we love long, luscious hair. However, we also use hair extensions to create fullness, repair breakage, and add dimension without the use of chemicals. Want a balayage with ribbons of caramel or a pop of butter blonde for fall? We can help you achieve that look with hair extensions alone. They’re the ultimate low-maintenance color upgrade.

Lie #4: Extensions Are Just for Celebrities
Hair extensions are Hollywood’s best-kept secret. Celebrities have been using hair extensions to style their hair for decades. But here’s the thing! Hair extensions aren’t just for celebrities.
Here’s the truth: Extensions are for anyone who wants to feel like their best self.
Sure, celebrities and influencers wear hair extensions (and yes, most really do!), but luxury extensions aren’t just for them anymore. Whether it’s a gala on the Upper East Side, brunch in Soho, or school drop-off in Brooklyn Heights, you deserve that same effortless, head-turning confidence.

Lie #5: Hair Extensions Are Painful or Heavy
Again, this hair extension myth is based on some reality. But… this isn’t the full picture.
Here’s the truth: If your hair extensions are uncomfortable or heavy, they were installed incorrectly. Period.
At Olivia Christensen Salon, our signature i-tip hair extensions are featherlight and installed with professional precision. Most of our clients forget that they’re even wearing extensions, and they always come back telling us they wish they’d done it sooner.

Lie #6: You Can’t Style Extensions Like Real Hair
Some extensions really can’t be styled like natural hair, and that’s a common misconception. At Olivia Christensen Salon, we completely flip that myth – our extensions blend seamlessly and style beautifully.
Here’s the truth: With the right quality hair, you can wave, curl, straighten, or blow out your extensions exactly like your own hair.
Our clients consistently tell us that our hair holds a style even better than their own natural hair. Say hello to bouncy Bardot blowouts that last through a full Manhattan night out!

Lie #7: All Extensions Are the Same
This myth about hair extensions couldn’t be further from the truth, especially when it comes to our signature technique and high-quality hair.
So, here’s the truth: All hair extensions don’t even come close to each other. Quality is everything.
Cheap hair extensions will lead to tangling, matting, and shine that screams “fake.”
OC Extensions are couture, luxury hair that behaves like your own. Every bundle is hand-selected, ethically sourced, and crafted to be the Birkin of bundles.
The Truth About Hair Extensions That You Need to Know
So, here’s the thing: hair extensions aren’t just about length or vanity. They’re a transformation. The right hair extensions can completely change the way you look and feel. Whether you opt for length, volume, or a color blend.
If you’re ready for your fall reset, now is the perfect time. Change up your look this season with pumpkin spice caramel ribbons, rich brunettes, and buttery blonde blends. These are just a few of the hair extension trends that every It-girl will be wearing this season.
Located in Midtown Manhattan, Olivia Christensen Salon specializes in luxury hair extensions for clients across NYC, Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island, and the Hamptons.
Book Your Hair Extension Consultation
Don’t fall for the lies. Experience the truth for yourself.
Book Your Consultation Here. Because once you experience OC extensions, you’ll never go back.