Clip-ins, tape-ins, weaves, pre-bonded, fusion, micro-link—these terms can be overwhelming if you’re new to hair extensions. Hair Extensions offers Remy human clip-ins, but extensions come in many types. Let’s break down the different methods and styles to clear up some confusion.
Many types of hair extensions exist, each with unique application methods. Your hair’s color, length, thickness, and style determine the best extension for you. One type may work for one person but not necessarily for someone else.
Your personal preference and budget will also affect your choice. Consider the period of wear, care, and maintenance required for each extension method. Some are less maintenance than others. Extensions are ideal for those who have trouble committing to a style because of their versatility. Instantly transform your length, volume, and color into the look of your dreams with just a few bundles of hair. But how do you pick the best extension installation method for your needs?
The demand for new methods, styles, lengths, and colors has increased as the beauty industry has grown. It’s no surprise that cosmetologists and beauty experts are curious about the various types of hair extensions available and which method is best. Hair extension prices range from $200 to $3,000. The quality of hair extensions affects the overall price you’ll pay and how long your extensions will last.
Real Human Hair Extensions vs. Synthetic Hair Extensions
Before getting into different types of hair extension application methods, the first thing you need to know is that hair extensions come in real human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions. The main difference lies in quality and longevity.
How Hair Extensions Are Made
Human hair extensions are real human hair from top to bottom, collected from a donor. Remy hair has intact cuticles, running in the same direction, ensuring no tangling, staying smooth and silky for a lifetime. Synthetic hair uses various blended fibers, fine plastic fibers, imitating real human hair.
Look & Feel
Real and synthetic extensions come in many styles, colors, and different forms of application. Synthetic fibers are generally stiff and don’t blend well with natural hair. Real hair looks and feels real, blending more naturally.
Coloring & Styling
Human hair extensions can be treated like natural hair. You can straighten, curl, blow dry, and color them, and apply hair products. Synthetic hair cannot be colored because dyes with ammonia or bleach will destroy it. Heat styling tools will also damage synthetic hair extensions. Sun, friction, and harsh hair products can further damage synthetic hair.
Quality & How Long Hair Extensions Last
Synthetic hair is cheaper but is a trade-off as it doesn’t last long and is easily damaged by sun and heat. Generally, synthetic hair extensions last for months, whereas human hair extensions last upwards of one year if well taken care of. Luxy Hair remy human hair extensions last about one year on average.
The Types of Hair Extensions
Hair extensions can be synthetic or actual real human hair. Synthetic extensions are cheaper and usually don’t last long. They offer a chance to change your look and style without damage. Temporary ones, like ponytails and clip-ins, are worn daily. Semi-permanent extensions are smaller and undetectable. Permanent ones, like micro rings and nano rings, are worn continuously. Our range includes a wide variety of colors, different lengths, and methods of application to choose from.
Clip-in Hair Extensions
Clip-in hair extensions come as clip-in wefts made from contoured pieces attached to a base with fabric or silicone. They have clips that are ready to use and attach to your natural hair. They snap open and close with ease, making them the least permanent and least damaging option. You can quickly remove them and put them back on in 5–15 minutes without chemicals, heat, or pressure. These extensions cause zero damage and are a popular hair extension type you can apply at home.
Tape-In Hair Extensions
Tape in hair extensions are pre-taped and taped on either side of your hair; a hairdresser will apply tape-ins, align with roots, and use a heated tool that heats up glue; they are glued and need a glue remover to be removed and reinstalled; this adhesive product can damage hair as you apply heat; the process takes 40 minutes – 1 hour and can be reused; how long do hair extensions last depends on the type and care; Tape in hair extensions can be reused if kept in good condition.
Sew-In Hair Extensions/Weave
Weave hair extensions involve braiding natural hair into cornrows. Using a needle and thread, they sew the weave hair extensions into the braid. This long process can take several hours and often feels heavy and uncomfortable due to the tight application and strain on the scalp. An experienced hairdresser handles this technical and difficult application, ensuring it’s sewn in properly. Sew-ins can also come in wig form or as separate wefts. This method works best for thicker hair and is less suitable for thin or lighter hair. It’s a popular choice because it’s the most permanent and seamless option, with the hair applied as one piece.
Fusion & Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions
Fusion hair extensions involve bonding pre-bonded strands to natural hair with adhesives like glue. This process takes 3-4 hours. A hairdresser uses a hot glue gun or heat clamp to melt the glue and apply the extensions. It can be damaging for some clients. The machine glues individual strands in this application.
Microlink Hair Extensions
Microlink hair extensions, also called micro bead hair extensions or micro loop hair extensions, attach tiny wefts to small sections of natural hair with a small silicone-lined bead and a special tool to secure and tighten. This method takes 2 – 4 hours to apply and involves no heat or glue. If not installed correctly by a professional, they can be damaging due to pressure, pulling at the roots, and improper removal can lead to hair pulled out. However, when done right, they are among the least damaging hair extensions.
Wigs & Hair Pieces
Wigs and hair pieces come in different forms and are applied topically. Long, full wigs cover your entire head and can act as a replacement for your own hair due to hair loss or balding. Hair pieces, like a bun or ponytail, are placed on top to add thickness or cover a specific area. Hair extensions for pixie short hair can also be used to create a different hairstyle.
Micro-rings
Micro-rings, also known as stick tips, micro-beads, or micro-loops, are discreet extensions using no glue or heat. They use silicon-lined metal rings to attach natural hair, which is looped, threaded, and tips closed with pliers, holding extensions firm. This popular, reusable technique is not suitable for fine hair or light blonde hair as the rings slip, slide down, or become visible. This application lasts 2-4 hours and lasts 6-9 months. Repositioned every 6-10 weeks, the rings should be flexible, and adjusted along the hair shaft to avoid matting and damage.
What are fusion hair extensions? They are another method where natural hair is fused using glue and heat.
Weave Hair extensions
Weave hair extensions use a semi-permanent, seamless technique. Micro rings are attached to rows of natural hair, and the weave is sewn using thread and needle. This method is best suited for ladies with thicker hair. The application is relatively quick, taking up to an hour, and is safe and secure, though it may feel slightly uncomfortable for the first few days. An experienced stylist is needed due to the difficulty and technicality. Deep conditioning hair products and a protein product are recommended to minimize damage. Weaves should be removed and refitted every 6-8 weeks to accommodate hair growth, and the maximum time to wear is 3 months.
Conclusion
Selecting the right hair extension method depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. Real human hair extensions, though more expensive, offer better longevity and versatility compared to synthetic alternatives. Each extension type, whether clip-in, tape-in, weave, or micro-link, has its own application process and maintenance requirements. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision tailored to your desired look and lifestyle. With the growing variety of options available, from temporary to permanent solutions, there’s an extension method to suit every style and need. Invest time in researching and choosing the best fit for your hair to ensure a flawless and satisfying transformation.
FAQ’s
How Long Do Tape-Ins Last?
Tape-ins are a semi-permanent installation that last for 4–8 weeks. They need to be removed and reapplied based on hair growth and how well you care for them.
How Long Do Sew-Ins Last?
A full weave should be removed every 6–8 weeks to avoid affecting your natural hair growth. For best results, do not wear it for more than four months.
How Long Do Micro-Link Hair Last?
Microlink hair extensions are semi-permanent and typically last up to four months in most cases.
What are the 4 types of hair extensions?
There are four types of hair extensions to consider: tape-in, clip-in, bonded, and halo. Each type offers a different application and texture, allowing you to achieve long, luxurious hairstyles. The longevity of these extensions can vary, so it’s essential to choose based on your hair needs. According to Rauchet, understanding these differences helps you select the right option for a flawless look.
