Looking for a way to add some extra oomph to your hair? Whether you want to try out new fantasy hairstyles or like the look of long, cascading waves, long extensions make it all possible. What are hair extensions, we hear you ask? Basically, they are wefts of fake or human hair that can be added for length or fullness. There are many different hair extensions, from using a hair extension gun to weaving.
If you’re a beginner to the world of hair extensions, it’s easy to get confused by all the information on the types of hair extensions and how to maintain them. Luckily, we’ve broken it all down for you. Read on to find out everything you need to know!
Types of Hair Extensions
As we’ve mentioned, there are tons of different extensions and extension methods. Finding the one you prefer may involve a bit of experimenting before you get the perfect result. Whatever method you go with, keep in mind that your extensions should be as close as possible to your natural hair texture and color. This brings us to the first differentiating factor in hair extensions: synthetic and human hair.
Synthetic vs Human Hair
Extensions made from human hair have a better chance of matching your hair—but there are other factors to consider when deciding between the two. Human hair has the most natural appearance, down to its texture, shine, and movement. They’re also incredibly durable, making them a popular choice for those who need long lasting hair extensions.
Synthetic hair is made from synthetic fibers such as plastic or acrylic. Synthetic extensions don’t blend in as well with your natural hair, and may have a shiny, artificial appearance. While they’re a downgrade in quality, synthetic hair is much more affordable. If you’re a first-time user of extensions or just looking to test out a hairstyle, synthetic hair is a great choice.
Now that we’ve established the differences between synthetic and human hair, let’s dive into the different extension methods.
Clip-on Extensions
As the most beginner friendly option, these types of extensions consist of wefts of hair attached to small clips. They come in a wide variety of styles, lengths, and colors.
Pros:
Clip-ons are easy and quick to put on without the help of a professional, and can be immediately removed if you’re feeling uncomfortable. This method is also one of the least damaging hair extensions.
Cons:
These extensions can’t be worn while you sleep, swim, or in the shower. Because of this, they aren’t ideal for daily use. They may also cause hair breakage when the clips are removed, and cheaper extensions will tangle or fall out quickly.
Sewing Hair Extensions
Also called weaving, sewing hair extensions involve braiding the natural hair into cornrows and then sewing extensions onto the braids using a needle and thread.
Pros:
This style of extension is versatile for different hair extension lengths—you can sew in long clumps of hair or maintain a shorter weave. You also have plenty of options for styling. They also provide a very natural look, since they lie flat against your scalp and blend in with your natural hair. Sew-ins are semi-permanent hair extensions, lasting for 6-8 weeks.
Cons:
Unlike the clip-on method, weaving extensions must be done by a professional. The sewing and braiding process also causes discomfort and may put strain on your natural hair and scalp.
Fusion Hair Extensions
Fusion extensions attach strands of hair to the head with low heat and a keratinized protein bond. The results are long-lasting, natural-looking extensions.
Pros:
Fusion extensions mimic natural hair growth, so they look incredibly natural and seamless for up to 6 months. They can also be styled just like your natural hair, and they require no maintenance such as tightening or re-fastening.
Cons:
Expect to pay much more for fusion hair extensions than you would for other methods. High quality installation and the help of a professional is costly, and the process is also time consuming.
Caring for Your Extensions
When it comes to handling extensions, the key is to be gentle. When brushing out your hair, avoiding tugging or yanking. Hold the hair from the root and detangle, starting from the ends. Be especially careful with wet extensions—wait for them to dry before brushing or styling. We also recommend putting long hair extensions in a braid before going to bed. This will prevent tangles and protect your hair from knotting overnight.
How long do hair extensions last?
How long your extensions last depends on their method of installation and how you care for them. By caring for your extensions and frequently touching them up every 4-6 weeks, they could last you up to 6 months. Treating them gently will go a long way in prolonging their use.
Looking for the best hair extensions for women on the market? Ninth Avenue has you covered with all types of hair extensions, from 6D extension machines to stunning tape extensions.
