What Hair Extension Method Is Best For Me?
Figuring out, what hair extension method is best for your hair can be super tricky and confusing. Whether you’re looking for the best hair extensions brand, what type of hair extensions are best, or you want to know what the best type of hair extensions are for your hair, we hope this blog post sets out which hair extensions are best for your hair goals and hair type.
CLIP-IN EXTENSIONS
What is CLIP IN extensions?
Clip-in hair extensions are the easiest and fastest way to achieve long, thick hair in a matter of minutes. Clip-in hair extension wefts come with the clips already attached to them, meaning to clip them into your hair all by yourself. This method is perfect for those seeking fuller and longer hair without long-term commitment and having to sit through a lengthy fitting appointment at the salon.
How long does it last?
The lifespan of Clip-Ins all depends on how you care for them and their quality.
How long does it take?
Minutes! Without needing professional help, you can clip them in at your leisure and remove them at the end of the night.
“I Have Thin Hair. Should I get WEFTED Extensions?”
This method is recommended for people with medium to thick hair. Clip-In extensions aren’t always the most discreet method, so if you have finer hair, you might be able to see the attachment.
IMPORTANT
You must remove clip-ins when sleeping as they can cause hair loss when rubbing against your scalp
LA WEAVE
What is LA weave?
LA Weave is a Braid-less sew-in method. Discreet and flat an alternative to a braided technique. Having seamless extensions where no one can tell where they start or stop is always the no.1 goal. But how does it work? A track is built using Silicone microbeads. The weft is then sewn onto the sectioned linked micro rings and hair.
This method is a super popular hair extension choice. Perfect if you’re looking for a secure yet comfortable application and your hair goal is to create a full, luxurious finish.
How long does it last?
We would normally recommend having them removed and refitted after six to eight weeks as the extensions will have grown down, and you may start to feel a tugging sensation from the hair.
How long does it take?
Full head of (4 - 5 rows) - 2hrs.
Half Head (3 rows) - 1hr 30mins.
Quarter Head (2 rows) - 1 hr.
Fitting depends on the natural hair thickness and length. For some clients, we may add more rows to achieve a fuller look.
“I Have Thin Hair. Should I get an LA Weave?”
This method is recommended for people with medium to thick hair.
INVISIBLE WEAVE
What is an INVISIBLE weave?
Invisible Weave Extensions are taking the industry by storm as they solve oh-so-many problems that women encounter with other extension methods. As this Technique ensures there's NO visible attachment at the base of the extension, yes, you heard me, gone are the days of lack of versatility and styling options due to exposed beads, bonds and braids when wearing your hair up.
Another reason to fall in love with the Invisible Weave is that the weft extensions are secured seamlessly using no heat, tight braids, and glue. Alternatively, the Invisible Weave uses hidden attachments inside the weave to not be seen when the hair is worn down or styled up.
How long does it last?
We would generally recommend having them removed and refitted after six to eight weeks as the extensions will have grown down, and you may start to feel a tugging sensation from the hair.
How long does it take?
Full head (4 - 5 rows) - 2hrs.
Half Head (3 rows) - 1hr 45mins.
Quarter Head (2 rows) – 1hr 20mins.
"I Have Thin Hair. Should I get an INVISIBLE Weave?"
This method is recommended for people with all hair densities.
BRAIDED WEAVE SEW-IN EXTENSIONS
What is Braided SEW IN extensions?
Braided sew-in is achieved by braiding the natural hair into cornrows first, then using a needle and thread to sew the weft onto the braids.
How long does it last?
It is recommended to remove the weave every six to eight weeks.
How long does it take?
Typically, 1-2 hrs depending on how many rows you have.
"I Have Thin Hair. Should I get SEW IN Extensions?"
Recommended for people with thicker hair due to the way extensions are attached. The tight application often puts an initial strain on the scalp, so it isn't recommended for more delicate hair types.
Braided - Small LEAVE OUT SEW-IN EXTENSIONS
What is Braided Leave- out Sew-in extensions?
A braided leave-out weave involves braiding the natural hair and incorporating extensions into the braids. The term "leave-out" refers to a small section of natural hair intentionally left unbraided or unweaved, typically around the perimeter or the crown of the head. This section of natural hair is blended with the extensions to create a seamless and natural look.
In this technique, the braids provide a stable base for attaching extensions, while the leave-out allows for versatility in styling, as the natural hair can be styled to match the extensions. It's a popular method for achieving a natural-looking weave while preserving some styling options with the individual's own hair.
How long does it last?
Typically, 6- 8weeks.
How long does it take?
Installation takes 2-3hrs, including cut and styling.
"I Have Thin Hair. Should I get WEFTED Extensions?"
This method is ideal for people with thick hair.
NANO RINGS
What are NANO rings?
The best thing about Nano Rings? It's 90% smaller than the traditional Micro Ring, making this technique a little more comfortable and discreet to wear.
Nano Rings have a strong keratin tip secured on a fine metal loop that is squeezed closed to form a firm tip, which is then inserted into the Ring before being clamped with pliers. They're relatively quick and easy to apply and a super discrete technique that requires no heat or glue to be fitted.
How long does it last?
We recommend a period of six to eight weeks between touch-ups as they will need to be moved up as your hair grows. Nano Rings are a great quick fix and short-term extension plan.
How long does it take?
A full head of Nano Ring extensions can take between 2-4hrs to be fitted; this may vary on your natural hair thickness.
"I Have Thin Hair. Should I get NANO Rings?"
100%. Because the Nano Rings are so small, I'd recommend this method for those with more delicate hair.
MICRO RINGS
What are MICRO rings?
Micro Ring hair extensions are a technique in which hair is pulled through a micro ring; silicone lined to grip your hair. After the bead is around the hair, we add the pre-bonded keratin extensions into the micro ring and then lock and clamp shut.
How long does it last?
Micro rings need removing and refitting every eight to ten weeks and can be repositioned every four to six weeks. Despite their regular maintenance, Micro Rings are reusable.
How long does it take?
Application time is 1.5–3hrs depending on your natural hair thickness. Removal time is 1hr–2hrs and this method will require a refit every six to eight weeks.
“I Have Thin Hair. Should I get MICRO Rings?”
Unfortunately, this method is not recommended for fine hair types as the Micro Ring may slip down or be visible.
TAPE EXTENSIONS
What are TAPE extensions?
Tape-in hair extensions are pre-taped and then taped/glued together on either side of your hair. Typically you will need help from a professional to fit them, as they need to be aligned with your roots and are applied using a heated tool that heats the glue. Additionally, you would need to have them professionally removed (with glue remover) and then reinstalled. Naturally, when you apply heat to your roots and any adhesive product such as tape or glue, this can damage your hair.
How long does it last?
This extension method is considered semi-permanent, as they typically last four to eight weeks before they need removal and re-applied. You can't wash your hair or excessively sweat 24-48 hours after application as the bond needs time to cure and adhere properly to the hair.
How long does it take?
This process usually takes approximately 40min to 1hr.
"I Have Thin Hair. Should I get TAPE Extensions?"
Carmen doesn't recommend Tape-in extensions for thin hair as they can tend to pull out the strands, especially as they start to grow out.
HOT-FUSION EXTENSIONS
What are FUSION-BOND extensions?
Fusion bond hair extensions are also known as "glue in", "keratin bond", and "hot fusion" extensions. Each extension has a keratin tip which is melted using an application tool. Fusion hair extensions come in strands of hair.
How long does it last?
This semi-permanent method can last between 16 – 20 weeks with proper maintenance, making this type of application the most durable.
80% of hair extension damage occurs after the 8th week of wear; therefore, the longer you go, the greater the chance of hair breakage and loss.
How long does it take?
Strand by strand is typically the most expensive method due to the lengthy application time; the national average is 6 – 8 hours.
"I Have Thin Hair. Should I get PRE-BONDED Extensions?"
Fusion extensions aren't always suitable for all clients as this type of application is very damaging to your natural hair, so your hairdresser may even advise against this method.
We hope we’ve delivered all the information you need to discover the perfect hair extension method for you, your hair type and your hair goals. If you’re still unsure, that’s totally fine. Drop us a line at Info@carmenwalkerhair.com
