Have you heard of the terms- weaves, pre-bound, micro-link, clip-ins, fusion? These are the terms used by hairstylists and professionals who help people with permanent hair extensions. Most premium hair extension procedures use specific clips, but not all the methods require these clips. There are various procedures you can choose to increase the texture or length of your hair.
This article will list the most popular hair extension methods and their unique features and benefits. Though these are called permanent hair solutions, some of them don’t last forever—one or two visits to your hairstylist (a year) may be necessary.
Hair extensions are mainly two types: natural human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions. The first type is what it sounds like, and it is made of natural hair from top to bottom. Synthetic hair is made of different synthetic, blended fibres and has zero presence of human hair. These fibres are created with precisions and hi-tech machines, and they are so much better; they look and feel just like smooth human hair. You can choose whatever type you want.
Now, it is time to learn the different types of hair extensions.
Below are some of the best procedures for making your hair look the way you want:
Clip-in hair extensions
If you are looking for permanent hair extensions, this one is a good choice. The clip-in hair extensions come in strands of several pieces, and the hair is attached to a base with fabric or silicone. Clips are stuck in the base and are ready to use. You have to clip the pieces to your natural hair, that’s all. Each clip can be attached and detached with ease.
How long does it last?
It depends on how you take care of them. What products you use and how often you wear these will decide their lifespan. Usually, these extensions last 3 to 6 months.
Tape-in hair extensions
These extensions are pre-taped and are glued on either side of a person’s hair. A hairstylist can easily attach this extension with a heating device in an hour or 45 minutes.
How long does it last?
These are considered semi-permanent, as they only last 4 to 8 weeks, and then you need to remove them and reapply. Like the other extensions, the quality deteriorates depending on your care and frequency of application of hair conditioner and other products.
Sew-in hair extensions/weaves
This extension is attached by braiding the natural hair into cornrows, and with the help of a needle and thread—it (attachment) is sewed into the braid/cornrow. These extensions are perfect for people with thicker hair, and braiding and attaching the extensions becomes more manageable with this type of hair.
How long does it last?
Your hairdresser will recommend removing this weave every six to eight weeks, especially if you plan to grow your natural hair. Again, your frequency of usage and care will determine the lifespan of this extension.
These are some of the most popular hair extension procedures, and you can choose any of these procedures for your hair. Some other methods which are now popular in the market are:
- Fusion & pre-bonded hair extensions- lasts 4 months
- Microlink hair extensions- lasts 2 to 3 months
- Wigs & hairpieces- lasts up to one year
Choosing the type of hair extension is your preference, but if your hairdresser strongly suggests one of the procedures, you can give it a try because sometimes, the seller knows better than the customers.