The Ultimate Guide to Hair Extensions: The Different Types, Hair Maintenance Tips and Which Hair Extensions Are The Right Fit For You
Hey everyone! I'm Meg Ann Lee, a hairstylist and certified hair extension artist. Today, let's dive into the world of hair extensions. Whether you're looking to add volume, length, or a splash of color, hair extensions can be a game-changer. The world of hair extensions is HUGE. With so many different companies and methods, it's hard to know which one is right for you!! Let's break down the different types of hair extensions, who they are best for, and how to keep them looking fabulous.
If you have questions or want to set up a personalized consultation you can find me at moss hair salon!
Different Extension Methods
1. Clip-In Hair Extensions
How They Work:Â Clip-in extensions are the most versatile and user-friendly. They come in wefts with clips attached, allowing you to easily snap them into your natural hair.
Ideal For:Â Beginners, anyone looking for temporary changes, and those who want to avoid commitment. Perfect for special occasions or adding extra oomph for a night out.
Care Tips:Â Store them in a cool, dry place when not in use. Brush them gently with a wide-tooth comb before and after each use. Wash occasionally with sulfate-free shampoo and let them air dry.
2. Tape-In Hair Extensions
How They Work:Â These extensions come with adhesive strips that are taped to your natural hair. They lie flat against the scalp and are relatively quick to apply.
Ideal For:Â Those looking for semi-permanent extensions with a natural look. Great for thin or fine hair because they add volume without too much weight.
Care Tips:Â Avoid using oil-based products near the roots, as this can weaken the adhesive. Gently brush your hair from the tips to the roots to avoid tangling. Reapply every 6-8 weeks. When I say 6-8 week, I mean SERIOUSLY. Once these start to grow out they often slide and cause tension on the natural hair. If you don't maintenance them, they WILL damage your hair and scalp.
3. Sew-In Weft Hair Extensions
How They Work:Â Your natural hair is secured by a cornrow or by beads, and the extensions are sewn into this track using a needle and thread. There are SO MANY different install methods just in this category. My tip is let your hair stylist, who should be certified in extensions, choose what is best for your hair type.
Ideal For:Â People with medium to thick hair. This method provides a lot of volume and length, and is very secure.
Care Tips:Â Keep your scalp clean and moisturized to avoid itching and dryness. Wash and condition regularly, and ensure your hair is completely dry after washing to prevent mildew. I cannot stress enough to BLOWDRY the roots of your hair extensions.
4. Fusion (Keratin) Hair Extensions
How They Work:Â Keratin-tipped extensions are bonded to your natural hair using a heating tool that melts the keratin. This creates a very natural look and feel.
Ideal For:Â Those looking for long-lasting extensions. Suitable for most hair types but best for healthy, strong hair due to the heat application.
Care Tips:Â Use sulfate-free, gentle shampoos and conditioners. Avoid applying conditioner directly to the bonds. Brush carefully with a soft-bristle brush to avoid loosening the bonds.
5. Micro-Link/I-tip Hair Extensions
How They Work:Â Small sections of your natural hair are threaded through tiny beads, which are then clamped down to hold the extensions in place.
Ideal For:Â Individuals looking for a non-chemical, non-heat method of application. Good for adding length and volume.
Care Tips:Â Be gentle when brushing and avoid tugging at the beads. Visit your stylist regularly to tighten the beads and prevent slipping.
6.V/light or Combline Hair Extensions
How they work: Individual strands of hair are applied, brushed, and cured to natural strands of hair. Imagine eyelash extensions but for your head hair.
Ideal for: Â Fine or thinning hair areas on the scalp and not for an entire head install. The lightweight nature of v-light extensions and the gentle application process can add thickness and body.
Care tips: Use sulfate-free, gentle shampoos and conditioners. Avoid applying conditioner or oil directly to the application area. Brush carefully with a soft-bristle brush to avoid loosening the bonds.
General Maintenance Tips for All Hair Extensions
Regular Brushing:Â Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for extensions. Start from the tips and work your way up to avoid pulling and tangling. Multiple times a day.
Gentle Washing: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to maintain the quality of the extensions. Most hair extensions require a hydrating haircare routine so ask your stylist for their recommendations! If your scalp needs a good suds make sure to double cleanse at your roots but don't shampoo or scrub through the mids and ends of your extensions. Avoid rubbing your hair harshly; instead, gently lather the shampoo and rinse thoroughly. I usually wash my hair 1-2 times a week while wearing my extension install.
Heat Protection: If you use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage to both your natural hair and the extensions. I love to double up on this if you can find a leave in cream with theremal protectant AND a thermal protectant spray. One in damp hair and one on dry hair before using a hot tool.
Night Care:Â To avoid tangling, tie your hair in a loose braid or ponytail before bed. Use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction. I also love using a silk bonnet to prevent additional friction.
Hair extensions can be a fantastic way to transform your look, but they do require some extra care to keep them looking their best. By choosing the right type of extensions for your needs and following the maintenance your hair stylist requires you can enjoy gorgeous, voluminous hair that turns heads everywhere you go!
- Meg Ann Lee <3