You may choose between five main kinds of hair extensions. Each one varies slightly from one another, and it’s important to understand the differences to choose the best hair extensions for your hair type. Keep in mind, no hair extension type is truly the best hair extension method that fits everyone’s needs and hair type.
Comparing Hair Extensions
When you select the best hair extension method for you, it’s important to take into account the following factors:
How long they last
How damaging they are to your hair
If they’re reusable
How long they take to apply
A clip-in hair extension is the best hair extension method if you’re getting extensions for the first time or you like to change your hairstyle frequently. These are the least permanent type of extensions. Each clip has a silicone or fabric base with a clip connected at the base. The clip then connects to your hair.
These are simple to apply and remove on your own. They don’t damage your hair because they don’t attach to your hair using pressure, heat, or an adhesive.
If you’re wondering how long do clip-in hair extensions last, most last three to six months or possibly longer, depending on how you care for them. You must be careful when brushing your clip-in hair extensions, even if you brush gently and use an antistatic brush.
Tape-In Extensions
Tape-in hair extensions come with an adhesive already applied to them. Your stylist tapes or glues them into your hair. Despite the application process only took about 40 minutes to an hour, this isn’t always the best hair extension method since the adhesive can damage your hair. However, if you have them taken off by a professional, it’s possible to save and reuse them.
A Stylist applies sew-in extensions, also known as a weave, by sewing them into your hair. You may receive separate wefts or choose to have a single hairpiece that covers your entire head.
The application process consists of the stylist braids your hair into cornrows. Then, he or she uses a needle and thread to connect the hair to the cornrows.
Generally, a stylist only recommends this for individuals who have thick hair since your hair must be strong enough to support the extensions. Keep in mind, the process for getting weave is longer when compared to other kinds of extensions. However, this is the most permanent application for extensions.
You can only wear the weave for two to four because it can affect your natural hair growth. You may reuse your sew-in extensions if they’re taken off correctly and are of decent quality.
Pre-Bonded and Fusion Extensions
Pre-bonded hair extensions, also known as fusion hair extensions, like pre-bonded keratin hair extensions use glue to connect the faux tresses with your natural hair.
The entire process takes anywhere between three to four hours. You’ll definitely want to have a professional hairdresser adhere to your hair. The application process uses a device similar to a hot glue gun to apply. Keep in mind, even if you see a professional apply them, they’re damaging to your hair.
Generally, these extensions last around four months, especially if you take care of them and use an antistatic brush. You may reuse these hair extensions, but a stylist won’t be able to use the existing bonding to reapply them.
Microlink Extensions
A micro link, also known as a micro loop, extension connects to your hair using a small bead lined with silicone. The stylist applies for these extensions in small wefts and uses a tool that applies and tightens the beads to your hair.
The entire process takes between two to four hours to apply. They aren’t as damaging as methods that use glue. However, a professional should take them out because it’s possible to pull out your natural hair when removing them. Typically, these extensions last two to three months before the beads begin growing away from your scalp.
Taking Care of Different Types of Hair Extensions
It doesn’t matter which hair extension application method you choose; the care process is similar. Some helpful extension hair care tips include the following:
Condition your extensions to prevent tangling
Style your natural extensions on temperatures less than 380 degrees Fahrenheit
Use an antistatic brush
Sleep with your hair in a ponytail or braid
The material of the extension changes how you style your extensions. Real extensions use donor hair from a human while synthetic extensions consist of materials like polyester or nylon. You can only dye and perm real extensions, not synthetics. Additionally, you can’t curl, straighten, or even blow dry synthetic extensions.
Choosing the right hair extension type and the best hair extension method for you can ensure you have hair you’ll love, possibly for months to come. It’s essential to realize that some extension application methods can damage your hair, though. Using an anti-static brush, such as Forbabs, will help maintain your hair extensions for long periods of time. You can minimize your risk of damaging the extension by using an antistatic brush.