Whether you’re looking for length or volume, hair extensions are a great way to create a new look and add fullness to your hair. Clip-in, tape-in, sew-in, the ones we all see on Instagram that you wear like a crown; there are SO many different options to choose from. Depending on your grooming routine and what you’re looking for, your stylist can help to recommend the right extensions for you. In this article we’ll dive into the different types, things to consider, and how to take care of them to keep your hair looking beautiful and fresh for as long as possible!
The Different Types of Hair Extensions
Whether you only want the long-hair-look for one night or you’d like to wake up with it, there are options for everyone. Here we’ve covered the top four types of hair extensions including what you need to know about application and upkeep for each.
Clip-In Extensions
Clip-in extensions are for those with the Friday night hair goals that end when your night does. These require the least amount of commitment as they are easy to apply, taking less than 10 minutes on average. Clips are attached to the base of the weft, and application is easy; lightly tease the root of the hair where you want to apply the extensions, and clip them in at the root. Tease hair over the top and style as usual.
If you’re considering using clip-in hair extensions, keep in mind that it is not recommended to sleep with them in and overuse can lead to breakage. On the upside, they don’t require washing as often since they’re not producing natural oils and you don’t need to use harsh chemicals or glues to apply or take them out.
Tape-in Hair Extensions
This semi-permanent hair extension is applied in chunks that are about 1 inch wide each. These need to be professionally applied and use an adhesive glue, however due to the volume of hair they’re applied to they are less likely to cause damage compared to other methods.
Hair is placed between two opposing sides of tape, and then the sides are stuck together, adhering to each other and the hair in between. Tape-in extensions can be re-used and last about 6-8 weeks before needing to be reapplied.
Like most semi-permanent hair extensions, you’ll need to take a lot of care when washing them and make sure to dry your hair and the tape-portion of the extensions as well. It’s recommended to have your stylist remove the extensions to avoid damaging your hair or the extension.
Fusion Hair Extensions
Next on the list of semi-permanent hair extensions is the fusion hair extension, also called pre-bonded or bonded hair extensions. These are small, individual wefts of hair that are adhered to the root of your natural hair using an adhesive bond like keratin glue.
This type of extension can take a long time to put in (2-4 hours!) but can be washed and dried in the same fashion as tape-in extensions and usually cause little to no damage to hair. Depending on the thickness and texture of your hair, the size of the weft and type of bond may vary. and can stay in for 3-5 months before you need to have them redone.
Beaded Weft Sew-In Hair Extensions
The last method of hair extension is a new twist on the classic sew-in extension. Beaded weft sew-in hair extensions are applied by sewing long tracks of hair to beads that are applied to your natural hair. These beads are adhered to small sections of your hair, and then the extensions are sewn to the top of it. This method of hair extension takes about 1-2 hours to apply and can last 6-8 weeks before you need them professionally repositioned.
While sew-in extensions are extremely popular, they are recommended for medium/thick hair to avoid too much strain on finer strands, and can cause discomfort for the first day or so. These can be washed and dried with your typical hair, similar to caring for other semi-permanent extensions.
Things to Consider
Now that you understand the different types of hair extensions, there are a few things to consider before getting them.
Quality
It is recommended that you use a high quality human hair extension over something synthetic. Real hair does not matte as easily and can be styled using heat tools. Synthetic hair extensions typically doesn’t last as long as human hair extensions.
Your Hair Care Routine
While some extensions can be easily applied and removed in 10 minutes, others can add quite a bit of time to your hair care routine. If you’re someone who washes their hair often and does not like to be bothered with styling, it might be better to opt for the clip-in extensions.
Semi-permanent hair extensions need to be cared for correctly including washing, drying, applying hair products and more to avoid slippage, breakage, or matting. While this look is worth it for most, it’s important to understand that there will be a need to care for them and avoid over-saturing (which can be tough in the summer when you’re by the pool) to extend the life of your look and keep your hair healthy.
Matching your style
Another thing to consider is what color and texture to get. Your Tease Hair Boutique hairstylist can help you find the correct color extension, or adversely dye your hair to match the color of the extension. Similarly, if you’re looking to get extensions for thickness, your stylist can cut the extensions to match your hair length or the desired look.
Consider the texture of your hair; if you have wavy or curly hair, you may want to consider a smoothing treatment like Brazilian Blowout or Inca Glo to ensure there’s no definitive difference between the two. If you prefer to keep your texture and instead match the extension style, your stylist can recommend a textured extension that is right for you.
Hair Products
If you’re investing in hair extensions, you want to take good care of them by using products that will extend the life of your look and keep your hair silky and beautiful. To avoid having to wash and dry too often, use a dry shampoo like this one from Kerastase to extend your look. While it’s important to condition and moisturize the ends to keep them from getting dry, avoid using oil-based products too close to the root as this can cause extensions to slip and you’ll need to replace them sooner.
Bottom Line
Hair extensions of all types are a great solution to make hair look thicker, longer and fuller. By understanding the different types of extensions and the care methods as well as things to consider, you can decide if they’re right for you.
Your Tease Hair Boutique Stylist is available for extension consultations during your next appointment and can give you a customized recommendation on what would be best for you!