Different types of hair extensions (2023)

Different types of hair extensions

In this article, we are going to dive into the different types of hair extensions such as clip-in and tape-in ​​hair extensions, micro-link and cold melt hair extensions, pre-glued hair extensions using hot melt methods and seams. in hair extensions.

We explain the pros and cons of different types of hair extensions so you can decide which method works best for you.

Want to change your hairstyle and can't decide which type of hair extension is right for you?

If you're new to hair extensions, it's easy to get confused about the various hair extension methods available.

All semi-permanent hair extensions must be 100% Remy human hair; You can heat, style and wash your hair like your natural hair. The longevity of your extensions depends on how often you use them and the aftercare you use. High quality Remy human hair extensions should last between 3-12 months.

We've put together a guide to the different types of hair extension methods you can choose from. You can identify which method works best for your hair type and which aftercare fits your lifestyle.

clip in hair extensions

What are you?

Clip in hair extensions is a perfect temporary hair extension method that can be easily attached and removed. They are the safest and fastest system for getting longer, thicker hair without the need for permanent extensions.

Clips in hair extensions are usually attached to a base weave with ready sewn clips. Clip-ins require less effort compared to all other hair extension techniques. If you want to encourage the healthy growth of your natural hair, bobby pins are the perfect lengthening method.

application and aftercare

You can attach and remove clips yourself at home. Depending on the number of strands attached to your natural hair, clip application to hair extensions takes less than 10 minutes and requires no heat, glue or chemicals.

If you regularly use clips in hair extensions, we recommend using only 100% Remy human hair extensions. You can heat and style human hair extensions like your natural hair; Be sure to use a heat protectant spray when curling, straightening or curling your extensions.

Because they don't produce natural hair oils, clip-ins are very easy to care for and don't need to be washed regularly. Check out our top tips for caring for your clip extensionshere.

When using synthetic hair falls, you cannot heat them like human hair; these should only be used occasionally.

tape in hair extensions

What are you?

Tape hair extensions are a semi-permanent method of hair extensions. After clip-in, tape is the fastest and easiest hair extension method to apply and remove. Unlike clip-ins, you must have a professionally trained stylist apply this temporary hair extension method.

The bands are usually about an inch wide and are attached to the hair with glue. Because tape extensions are applied to a large amount of hair, they don't cause as much tension and breakage to natural hair as other permanent extension methods.

Tape-ins are the most popular semi-permanent method used by celebrities and top stylists; They are the fastest to apply and remove, with the most natural and discreet finish. Stylists often use tape extensions as a method to thicken a short cut at the front of the hair, creating a blunt frame for the face.

Tape-ins are perfect for most hair types; Once applied correctly, they are known to cause the least amount of long-term damage to your natural hair.

application and aftercare

The tapes take about an hour to apply to the hair and a similar amount of time to remove. With this method of hair extension, natural hair is "sandwiched" between two bands; then attached to the hair with a slightly heated tool or professional hairdressing pliers. Your natural hair is then cut to blend discreetly into the extensions.

Removing this method involves using a solvent spray on the root of the extensions, which melts the adhesive and allows the extensions to be safely removed. You can reuse your tape extensions, but the roots will need to be taped back together and often the length will be trimmed each time. You will need to reapply your tapes every 6 to 8 weeks to avoid tangling or making the adhesive difficult to remove.

As with most semi-permanent hair extension methods, you need to be very careful when washing and drying your hair. You need to make sure not to use conditioner or oil based products on the roots of your hair as this can cause the bands to slip. We also recommend avoiding styling the hair roots with heat and using a lower temperature when drying the extensions to prevent the tape from melting.

Micro-Link/Cold Fusion hair extension methods

What are you?

Often referred to as I-tips/nanobeads/microrings; Each method requires the same aftercare and technique to match the extensions to natural hair.

Microlink extensions are individual hair extension tips attached to small strands of hair. Each individual tip is attached to the hair using a microring or nanobead with special hair clips. The spikes are patterned in neat rows around the head and the beads are the same color as your natural hair. This attachment method does not use heat or glue to attach the extension to the hair and can be a very safe and discreet method when used correctly.

Nanobeads are typically copper beads and are best suited for those with thicker hair. They are about 90% smaller than micro rings and therefore are the most hidden hair extension method. Although larger, microrings are a discreet and often faster method of application and removal. Whichever method you use, it is recommended to only use silicone-lined beads or rings, as the silicone prevents damage to the natural hair and prevents slipping.

If you wear your hair up often, individual ends would be best for you as the individual loops allow your hair to move more freely.

application and aftercare

As natural hair stretches after coloring, you must wait at least 48 hours after coloring to attach the individual micro links, otherwise you risk loosening the extensions. Depending on the number of tips used, application can take from 2 to 4 hours.

Similar to most semi-permanent hair extension methods, you can wash your microlink extensions just like you would your natural hair. However, you need to be very careful with custom extensions as it can pull the strands out of your scalp when brushing, washing or styling. It is recommended to brush your extensions regularly throughout the day to avoid tangles with a special extension brush. our recommended brush would beDer ultimate Finish Tangle Teezer🇧🇷 You should also sleep with your hair in a secure ponytail and it is recommended to use a silk or satin pillowcase to avoid chafing and tangles overnight.

Microlink extensions are considered a high maintenance extension method. Pearl extensions should be removed and reapplied every 6 to 10 weeks to prevent excessive tangling due to new growth. anything longer than 12 weeks and you risk seriously damaging your natural hair. To remove the extensions, the strand is loosened or broken with remover pliers and pushed away from the ends of the hair. You may notice a lot of hair loss at this stage due to natural shedding.

Pre-tied/hot melt hair extension methods

What are you?

Fusion Bonds or Keratin Bond Extensions are attached to your hair with a pre-attached extension tip; The tip is fused to small sections of hair using a heated clamp. Pre-tied hair extension methods are often a better option for those with thinner hair; They don't stress your natural hair root as much as other permanent hair extension methods. If your hair has been damaged by over-treatment or heat styling, your stylist may advise against melt bonding; Hot melting risks further damage to your natural hair and prevents healthy hair growth.

application and aftercare

Similar to the cold fusion method, application time for pre-adhesive extensions can take 2-4 hours for a full head.

Depending on your natural hair growth, you will need to remove and reposition the glued extensions every 8 to 12 weeks. To remove, your stylist will destroy the bond to break down the keratin, then apply a debonding solution to remove the hair extension.

Glued-on extensions are often more expensive to maintain. If you want the hair to be reused after the first use, your stylist will have to cut the existing hair tip and apply another glue tip to the extension, which can be an expensive process.

As this method uses glue, you will also need to do a patch test before your appointment to avoid excessive scalp reaction or irritation.

Methods for sewing on hair extensions

What are you?

Sewn hair extensions, or "wefts", are typically attached using the LA or micro-ring weft method.

Fabrics are long strands of hair, similar to a bobby pin extension, that are sewn into layers of your natural hair. The hair is braided and sewn with a needle and thread or there is the method of applying micro rings.

This hair lengthening method is only suitable for people with thicker hair; Often, braiding can overtighten thin or previously damaged hair. If you have thick or very textured hair, wefts are a great choice for your length choice.

application and aftercare

Applying wefts takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the number of threads required. For a full head of hair extensions, 3 rows are usually needed. Depending on your natural hair growth, you will need to reposition the weft every 8 to 10 weeks. You should have a professionally trained stylist remove your weft to avoid cutting or damaging your own hair. Tangle-free, it takes about 30 minutes to remove one braid from your hair.

Once applied, a weave can seem like the most uncomfortable hair extension method, as it requires your natural hair to be stretched tight against your scalp; The pain and discomfort should subside within 24 hours and you'll soon be feeling like your natural hair.