I'm not an expert in extensions, but it is my understanding extreme caution needs to be taken when removing them. I do know that there are many ways to add extensions to the hair. Some add little pieces of hair in with a tiny braid, and other glue. Still other use a cornrow at the base and add long wefts onto the cornrow. I do know that braids can make hair fall out from the root if too much tension is used when putting in the braid. You also have to be very careful when washing/conditioning and maintaining or the natural hair can start to dread and knot up...that would break the hair when trying to remove them. I was told by a gal that swore the glued in ones will not break hair if they are applied and removed correctly. I can't say if it does or not, as I have never done or had them. There is a lot of info online if anyone is interested in learning more. One of the best sources I found was a gal named Bridget in Seattle. I think it was called Scream in Seattle. She is supposedly very good and does all kinds of extension from the unusual to beautiful. I think she used a pinch braid method, however a gal in my area thinks glue is the best. My advise if for anyone getting them to really do their homework and talk with others that have had it done by the practitioner. Also, with braids many people think they are loosing "tons" of hair when they are removed when in reality it is no more than they would have naturally lost in shedding (as we all do, some more than others). A braid will hold that hair rather than shedding it so it seems like you loose a lot.

Sorry, party-pooper here. I also have noticed thinning hair, but because of the side effects would not use rogaine type products. Vitamins biotin, B complex and c are great. Also gelatin and increased protein work without toxicity. See Rogaine side effects copied from wiki: "Side effects Common side effects of minoxidil include burning or irritation of the eye, itching, redness or irritation at the treated area, as well as unwanted hair growth elsewhere on the body. Users should stop treatment and seek medical attention right away if they experience any of the following serious side effects: Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; dizziness; fainting; fast heartbeat; sudden, unexplained weight gain; swollen hands or feet.[8] Alcohol and propylene glycol present in some topical preparations may dry the scalp, resulting in dandruff and contact dermatitis.[9] Some formulations of minoxidil substitute lipid Nanosomes in order to reduce contact dermatitis from the alcohol and propylene glycol vehicle.[10][11] Paradoxically, hair loss is a common side effect of minoxidil treatment.[12] Manufacturers note that minoxidil-induced hair loss is a common side effect and describe the process as "shedding". Although this phenomenon demonstrates that minoxidil is indeed affecting hair follicles, manufacturers offer no guarantee that the new hair loss will be replaced with hair growth. The speculated reason for this shedding is the encouragement of hairs already in the telogen phase to shed early. Side effects of oral minoxidil may include swelling of the face and extremities, rapid and irregular heartbeat, lightheadedness, cardiac lesions, and focal necrosis of the papillary muscle and subendocardial areas of the left ventricle.[13] There have been cases of allergic reactions to minoxidil or the non-active ingredient propylene glycol, which is found in some topical minoxidil formulations. Pseudoacromegaly is an extremely rare side effect reported with large doses of oral minoxidil.[14] Another side effect of minoxidil is that of dry skin, dark under-eye circles, and skin redness. Studies have shown that minoxidil can cause collagen depletion as it is a lysyl hydroxylase inhibitor, an enzyme which is key in collagen production.[15] Minoxidil is highly toxic to cats and may cause death with just inadvertent skin contact.[16][17"

I read that if you tug on the hairs that you have in any particular place on your head for 2 minutes tugging forward and backward it helps blood to get to the hair follicles which is increases thickening and growth. Maybe it dislodges or displaces testosterone receptors at least for men. I think women's thinning hair is from a different reason or hormone? Maybe I will try that for my scant eyebrows that I've always had. I used a whole bunch of things for hair growth inadvertently when I was seeking help for my migraines. I use MSM for my leg cramps and my hair is more plentiful. When I was taking a ton of flax oil which was one of the best things for my migraines my hair started growing much more. MSM makes it a bit thicker flax oil made it grow and Sprout like crazy but remain thin. I'll have to look into collagen. I'm glad to hear the Rogaine now works for older women. Best of luck :-).

Annie, Ive been going through significant hair loss. Its called telogen effluvium. It happens after a stressful experience or major surgery. Lucky me, Ive had both in the last year. My mother’s death ( not unexpected) and shoulder surgery. I talked to my PCP about it and she said she sees it all the time. She said it will come back but the hair needs to go through one growth cycle, which could be a year. Whenever I run my fingers through my hair I get at least ten strands from just one spot. When i wash it, the brush is totally clogged with hair. It looks like a bird’s nest when i clean the brush. She said to try Rogaine, but wasnt real enthusiastic about it. In the meantime, I have an appointment with a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss. I may cancel since i know what’s going on. If i go, Ill ask him about Nutrafol. Oh, my PCP added testing my thyroid to my blood test to be sure that wasnt affecting my hair. Ive started taking Vitamin D and Biotin. Maybe they will help a little. I hope the Nutrafol helps. Seeing your hair thin is so upsetting.