“Oh well. Hair grows. That’s the good thing about hair.” That’s the universal truth people always remind you of when you’ve just had a coloring appointment that didn’t turn out quite like you had hoped, or when asking to go a little shorter turns out to be a little too short. What if you don’t want to wait for your hair to grow? What if you can’t?
You may have dismissed hair extensions out of hand as something you would never do. Maybe you thought they’d be too obvious, or that they’d fall out at a bad time, or you were afraid that one careless day with a blow dryer would leave melted plastic stuck to the side of your head. But extensions have come a long way in recent years, and you can now feel free to reimagine your hairstyles with versatility, creativity, and confidence. Let’s look at the different types of hair extensions and find the one that’s right for you.
Clip-On Extensions
These are arguably the most basic hair extensions, and the ones most people think of. Clip-ons are exactly what they sound like: you simply fasten them to your existing hair with no need to see your stylist. Clip-ons offer the most flexibility: you can attach or remove them yourself as you wish in just a few minutes. They can be made of real human hair or synthetic fiber, and the former generally lasts a few months longer than the latter.
Bonded Extensions
For a less temporary change, hairstylists can bond extensions directly to the hair and scalp using tape or other adhesives. To reinforce the adhesive, your hairstylist will use a special tool that heats it, securing that bond. Well-applied extensions are virtually indistinguishable from your real hair, but this process takes more time, requires a professional, and may do damage to your natural hair.
Weaves
Weaves, or sew-in extensions, are arguably the most complex form of extensions. After the wearer’s natural hair has been tightly braided, an experienced stylist weaves the extension through the braids with a needle. Weaves last the longest but require the most application time, at least a few hours. A good weave can last up to four months, but over those four months, wearers will have to practice specific and diligent hair care, making certain to condition the hair and pay close attention to the scalp.
Natural vs. Synthetic: What to Know
All hair extensions come in natural and synthetic varieties, though some approaches are better suited to one or the other. Clip-on extensions, for instance, can easily incorporate synthetic hair, while weaves, which require upkeep that would quickly wear out synthetic strands, practically require natural hair. Treat natural hair extensions the same way you’d treat your own hair, with the occasional shampoo and conditioner, gentle drying, and hair products and treatments as you see fit. Synthetic hair, while more affordable, is not up to the rigors you would put human hair through such as blow-drying, curling, and highlights. If you’re torn between the different types of hair extensions, natural and synthetic, bonding and clips, a hair stylist can help you decide which hair extensions in Denver, CO make you look and feel your best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of hair extensions?
The main types of hair extensions are: clip-on extensions (temporary, self-applied), bonded extensions (adhered to hair with tape or heat-activated adhesive by a professional), and weaves or sew-in extensions (the most complex type, where extensions are sewn through tightly braided natural hair by an experienced stylist).
What are clip-on hair extensions and who are they best for?
Clip-on extensions are the most basic and flexible type, they can be attached and removed by the wearer in just a few minutes without a stylist. They’re available in both natural human hair and synthetic fiber, with human hair lasting a few months longer. They’re ideal for people who want occasional length or volume without a long-term commitment.
What are bonded hair extensions?
Bonded extensions are attached directly to natural hair using tape or adhesive, which a stylist then reinforces using a special heating tool. Well-applied bonded extensions are virtually indistinguishable from natural hair. However, they take more time to apply, require a professional stylist, and can potentially cause some damage to natural hair if not applied and removed properly.
What are weave or sew-in hair extensions?
Weaves (also called sew-in extensions) are the most complex extension type. A stylist tightly braids the wearer’s natural hair, then sews extensions through the braids with a needle. Weaves last the longest, up to four months, but require several hours of application and diligent maintenance, including regular conditioning and careful scalp care throughout the wear period.
What is the difference between natural and synthetic hair extensions?
Natural (human) hair extensions can be treated like real hair, washed, conditioned, blow-dried, curled, and highlighted. Synthetic extensions are more affordable but are not durable enough for regular heat styling or chemical treatments. Clip-ons can use synthetic hair, but weaves and high-maintenance styles generally require natural human hair for longevity and versatility.
How do I choose the right type of hair extensions for me?
The best extension type depends on your lifestyle, maintenance preferences, budget, and how long you want to wear them. Clip-ons offer maximum flexibility for occasional use, bonded extensions give a more permanent and smooth look, and weaves offer the longest-lasting results. A professional stylist can evaluate your hair and goals to recommend the right option.