Hair extensions are a great way to achieve the hair of your dreams, be it for an update to your looks or a special occasion. Extensions can also be a great way to add volume and thickness to your hair. If you’re looking for a temporary change or a more permanent solution, hair extensions can help you get the hair of your dreams.
There are many different extensions and terms, clip-ins, tape-ins, weaves, pre-bonded, and fusion, so it can be difficult to find your way if you are new to hair extensions, and it can get overwhelming without knowing the details.
So, please read on to find out more about the different types of hair extensions and extensions in general and how we can help you find the right type for you.
What are the different types of hair extensions you can do?
There are different types of hair extensions that you can do which are explained of below:
1. Clip-In Extensions
Clip-ins are the easiest and most popular style of hair extensions. They are the least permanent of extensions you can choose because they can be easily put on and taken off without much hassle, making them a great option if you want to switch up your style more often or just like the convenience.
They usually come in a strand of contoured pieces, which are attached at the base with either fabric or silicone. Then, clips are attached to this base, which is used to clip the pieces to your natural hair. This makes them easy to use and usually only takes 10-15 minutes to apply at home.
Another reason for their popularity is that they are the least damaging style as they don’t involve any chemicals, pressure, heat or other methods.
How long do they last?
This depends on several factors, like how often you wear them, how well you take care of them and which products you use. With regular wear and proper care, clip-in extensions usually last from three to six months to a year.
Generally, clip-in extensions are very low maintenance as they only have to be washed every 15 to 20 wears, unless there is a lot of product build-up that would require your attention. You can treat them like your natural hair with simple brushing, shampooing and conditioning before letting them air dry.
2. Tape-In Extensions
As the name suggests, tape-in hair extensions are pre-taped and then taped or glued together on either side of your natural hair, so this makes this type semi-permanent. Generally, a hairdresser would apply these extensions for you because they have to be aligned with the roots and then applied with a heated tool that heats up the glue. They also have to be removed with a glue remover and then reinstalled if you would like to use them again. Due to the application of heat and an adhesive, there is the potential for some damage to your hair. It will take an average of an hour to apply for these extensions.
How long do they last?
Usually, tape-ins will last about five to eight weeks before they have to be removed and reapplied. Just like with other extensions, this timeframe will also depend on how well you take care of them and how fast your hair grows.
You also have to be very careful when using conditioners or other hair products as they can react with the tape and make it slip off or come loose. Usually, we recommend special shampoo or conditioner and styling products that are specially formulated to ensure that the adhesive continues to stick to your hair. They can be styled just like your natural hair, but it is important to watch out for the roots where the tape or glue is.
3. Sew-In Extensions
Sew-in extensions are the most permanent and seamless of extension types but also the most complex and time-consuming. The hairpieces (or weave hair) require the natural hair to be braided into tight cornrows first before a needle and thread are used to sew the weave into the cornrow. Due to this, the process usually takes several hours and has to be performed by an experienced hairdresser as the application is complex and very technical.
While the very tight application method can put a strain on the scalp and make it feel heavy or uncomfortable, it is very popular because it is seamless as it’s sewn right into your own hair and therefore can’t come off. Due to the style of application, it is mostly used for people with thicker hair, as thin or lighter hair does not work well with this method.
How long do they last?
While the maximum time to wear a full weave is about four months, as it affects the growth of your natural hair, it is recommended to remove it every six to eight weeks, especially if you are trying to grow your own hair.
To ensure the best experience with a weave, you have to moisturize your scalp, the nape and the edges of the hair at least once a week. You also have to ensure to use deep conditioning products. It is recommended to wash the hair with a special protein product to minimize damage and weakening of the hair.
4. Fusion and Pre-Bonded Extensions
Fusion extensions are, as the name implies, fused to natural hair with adhesives. It is a very time-consuming method that takes approximately three to four hours to apply and also requires the services of an experienced hairdresser. Due to the application of hot glue, this type of extension may not be suitable for you as it can badly damage your natural hair. The individual strand is glued to the hair with a machine that resembles a hot glue gun.
How long do they last?
Fusion hair extensions are considered semi-permanent and can stay in your hair for up to four months. Just like with other types of hair extensions, this may vary based on the type and growth of your hair.
You can treat pre-bonded extensions just like your own hair with the same products. However, extensions will require to be repositioned every two to three months as your own hair grows. The chemicals in the glue can also lead to scalp irritation, breakage and potential hair loss.
How are hair extensions made?
There are two types of hair extensions, one made out of human hair and one made out of synthetic hair. Human hair extensions are, as the name implies, made of real human hair, which is collected from a donor. It generally is cut from one’s head after having been cleaned. It is pulled back and put in a tight ponytail, then cleanly cut at the nape. After this, it is sterilised and colour bathed before being used.
Synthetic hair is made of different synthetic fibers and does not contain any human hair. The fibres are generally very fine plastic fibres that are made to imitate real human hair.
Which type of hair extensions are best?
There is no clear “best hair extension,” as several factors have to be considered. These factors include your budget, what your goals for your hair are, like if you want the extensions to be semi-permanent or be able to change them on an ongoing basis, and also how much upkeep you are willing to deal with.
Professional Hair Extensions Service Provider
VIP Hair Salon is a professional full-service hair salon located in Boca Raton, FL. We offer professional hair extension services to help you achieve your dream hair. Whatever look you’re going for, there’s a hair extension type that’s right for you.
Contact us today at (561) 808-2788 to find out how we can help you.
FAQs
Different hair extension types can be made from real human hair or synthetic fibers, and they can be attached to the hair using various methods. The type of hair extension you choose should depend on your personal preferences and the look you are trying to achieve. If you want your extensions to look natural, human hair extensions are the best option. They can be styled just like your own hair and will blend in seamlessly. Synthetic hair extensions are a good choice if you want a more colorful or fun look. They are usually less expensive than human hair extensions and come in a wide variety of colours and styles.
Fusion and sew-in extensions generally last the longest, up to four months. Depending on the hair care you give and how fast your own hair grows, however, this time may vary. You can check out some hair care tips.
The most natural type of hair extension is an extension that is made of human hair. They can be styled like your own hair and look natural in flow.
Clip-in extensions are the safest type of extension in terms of potential damage to your hair, as they do not involve adhesives.
The cost of hair extensions depends greatly on the type of extension you choose, as some are more time-consuming than others. For example, sew-in extensions require a multi-hour session, while tape-in extensions can be done in far less time.
Another factor influencing the price is if you opt for human hair or synthetic hair extensions.
