What Types of Hair Extensions Are There?
- #EssenTheBeaut
- Oct 12, 2024
- 4 min read
Hair extensions have become one of the most popular beauty enhancements, allowing people to instantly change their look by adding length, volume, and even color. But with so many different types of extensions available, how do you know which is right for you? This guide breaks down the various types of hair extensions and their pros and cons, helping you choose the best option based on your lifestyle, hair type, and desired results.
Clip-ins are one of the most popular and versatile types of hair extensions. They come in wefts (strips of hair) with small clips that attach to your natural hair. Clip-ins are temporary, making them perfect for special occasions or when you want to switch up your look for a day. Since they don’t involve any glue, heat, or other adhesives, they are one of the least damaging extension types. You can easily apply and remove them at home without the need for professional help. Clip-ins are generally more budget-friendly compared to other extension methods. You’ll need to take them out before bed, as they are not designed for long-term wear. The clips may show through if your hair is very fine or thin.
Tape-in extensions are semi-permanent and involve hair wefts that are attached to your natural hair using a strong adhesive tape. The tape lies flat against the scalp, making them less detectable than clip-ins. The flat application allows the extensions to blend seamlessly with your natural hair. They can be installed in under an hour by a professional.
With proper care, tape-ins can be reused several times, making them a good investment. While tape-ins provide a long-lasting look, you’ll need a stylist for both application and removal. You'll need to avoid oil-based products near the roots, as they can weaken the adhesive. The adhesive may weaken with too much moisture, requiring more frequent touch-ups.
Sew-in extensions, also known as weaves, involve braiding your natural hair close to the scalp and then sewing hair wefts onto the braids using a needle and thread. This method is most commonly used on thicker hair types. Sew-ins can last up to 6-8 weeks with proper care. Since your natural hair is braided, you can experiment with a wide range of styles, including heat styling. This method doesn’t use chemicals or heat, which can minimize damage. Braiding too tightly can cause scalp tension and lead to traction alopecia if done frequently. You’ll need to ensure that your natural hair underneath the extensions stays moisturized and healthy. Sew-ins require a sturdy base, making them less suitable for thin or fine hair.
Micro-link extensions, also known as micro-beads or micro-loop extensions, involve small sections of your natural hair being looped through a tiny bead or ring along with the extension hair. The bead is then clamped down to secure the extension in place. Micro-links don’t require any glue or heat, reducing the risk of damage to your natural hair. The beads can be opened and repositioned, allowing you to reuse the extensions multiple times. Since the hair isn't glued or taped, micro-links move more naturally with your own hair.
If not installed properly, the beads can loosen or slip, leading to uneven hair. The beads can be visible on fine or thin hair, making them more suited for thicker hair types. Fusion, or keratin bond extensions, use a keratin adhesive to bond individual extension strands to small sections of your natural hair. A heating tool is used to melt the keratin, which attaches the extensions to your hair.
Fusion extensions can last up to 3-6 months with proper care. The bonds are small and blend well with your natural hair, making them virtually undetectable. Individual strands allow for more control over how much volume or length you want to add. Application can take several hours, and removal also requires a professional to dissolve the keratin bonds. The heat used to bond the extensions can weaken natural hair if done improperly.
The bonds can be too heavy for fine or fragile hair, leading to breakage.
Halo extensions are unique because they don’t require any clips, tape, or bonds. Instead, the weft of hair is attached to an invisible wire that sits around your head like a halo, with your natural hair covering it. Since there’s no attachment to your natural hair, there’s zero risk of breakage or damage. Halo extensions can be applied in minutes without the need for professional help.
The wire is adjustable, making it suitable for thin or thick hair. Since they aren’t physically attached to your hair, halo extensions are better for occasional wear rather than everyday use. You may be limited in styling options since certain hairstyles could reveal the wire.
While technically not considered extensions, wigs, and hairpieces offer full coverage and can dramatically change your look. Wigs are ideal for those seeking a temporary solution or those dealing with hair loss. Wigs can give you an entirely new look without any commitment. Since your natural hair is completely hidden, wigs allow your hair to rest and recover from heat or chemical damage. You can change your style, color, and length as often as you like with minimal effort.
The key to beautiful, healthy extensions lies in proper application, maintenance, and removal, so you can enjoy your extensions without sacrificing the health of your natural hair.
Comments