From Silky to “Synthetic”: Understanding Extension Processing Methods

Ever bought extensions that looked great — but felt stiff, crunchy, or oddly shiny after just a few washes? You’re not imagining it. The truth is, not all extensions are created equal — especially when it comes to how texture is processed.

At Christian Michael Hair Extensions, we believe you deserve real hair that feels like real hair — not plastic. So let’s break down the difference between authentic, long-lasting texture and the kind that leaves you saying, “Wait… why does this feel fake?”

---

🔥 The Truth About Over-Processed Extensions

Some companies use harsh chemical shortcuts to mimic popular textures — like beachy waves or tight curls. But here’s the scary part: many of these methods involve boiling, burning, or acid-washing the hair to force it into a new pattern. This gives the illusion of texture... but at a huge cost to quality.

You might notice:

• An unnatural plastic-like sheen

• Hair that tangles or mats quickly

• A weirdly stiff or crunchy feeling

• Curls that don’t bounce back after washing

💡 Translation: The hair is fried. The texture is fake. And the lifespan is short.

---

💨 What Is Steam Processing (And Why It’s Better)?

Unlike chemical processing, steam processing uses heat and water vapor — not harsh acids — to create wave and curl patterns. This gentle method helps the hair retain its natural cuticle integrity, elasticity, and softness.

At Christian Michael, all textured extensions are:

• Steam-processed for natural-looking movement

• Free of harsh chemicals and plastic coatings

• Made from 100% cuticle-aligned human hair

• Designed to feel soft, flexible, and wearable — even after multiple installs

You won’t get that “fake-y” feel because… it’s not fake. Just real hair treated with real care.

---

✨ Why Some Hair Feels “Synthetic” (Even If It’s Human Hair)

Here’s the wild part: some companies do use real human hair — but then chemically strip, coat, or fry it until it no longer behaves like human hair.

They might:

• Strip the cuticle completely (so the strands can’t “breathe” or absorb moisture)

• Apply a silicone or plastic-like coating to fake smoothness

• Burn the hair into curls using high heat, making it brittle

The result? Hair that technically started human but now feels like a Barbie doll’s ponytail.

---

💡 So What Does Christian Michael Do Differently?

We skip the shortcuts.

Our texture-preserving process means:

• We preserve the hair’s integrity from sourcing to processing

• Use steam over chemicals for texture creation

• Maintain a soft, human feel with each install

• Provide long-lasting texture that doesn’t disappear after a wash

Whether you’re ordering Body Wave, Deep Curl, or Straight — what you feel is the real deal. Every bundle is tested for authentic movement, true-to-type curl pattern, and moisture retention.

---

🛑 Quick Texture Red Flags

Want to spot low-quality processing in the wild? Watch out for:

• Crunchy-feeling curls that don’t move

• Extension hair that gets super shiny after straightening (that’s a plastic coating!)

• Curls that disappear after one shampoo

• Ends that feel dry or straw-like even after deep conditioning

If it feels like “synthetic,” there’s a good chance it’s been processed to the max.

---

🙌 Real Hair. Real Texture. Real Longevity.

At Christian Michael, we’re proud to offer extensions that look amazing and feel even better — because when your texture is authentic, your install lasts longer, styles better, and feels like it’s yours.

So the next time someone says “Your hair looks bomb,” you can smile and say,
“Thanks. It’s Christian Michael.”

---

Ready for the good stuff?
👉 Shop Real-Feel Textures Now — because fake is out, and feel-good hair is in.