Hair extensions are a quick and easy way to give your hair a boost when you’re in need of some volume, length, or just want a fun new look. Sure, they may seem like something only celebrities can pull off, but with the right extensions, anyone can rock them. Whether you have thinning hair due to stress, genetics or another factor, or you simply want to jazz up your everyday look with an edgier style—hair extensions may be the answer to all your prayers. But if that sounds like way more information than you need right now, we get it. All you really need to know is that there is a ton of different types of hair extensions out there (with even more variations on top of that). And if you want to find the best one for your needs and budget, read on…
What Are Hair Extensions?
As the name suggests, hair extensions are a way of adding length, volume, or other qualities to your existing hair. And the best part is that there are so many different types and styles to choose from. Hair extensions come in a wide range of types and prices, with the best extensions for you depending on your hair type, how much you have to spend and the look you want to achieve. Depending on the type, extensions can be applied using a variety of methods. They can be sewn, glued, beaded, or even snapped into place. There are also different ways to wear hair extensions. If you’re looking to go for a dramatic change, you can opt for a full head of extensions, or you can wear a few strategically placed pieces to add just the right amount of volume or length.
Types of Hair Extensions
There are a ton of different hair extension types. It’s important to understand what’s out there so you can choose something that works best for your hair. Below are some of the most popular hair extension types.
Human Hair Extensions – Human hair extensions are made from real human hair. While synthetic extensions are often less expensive than human hair, they may not last as long. Many types of human hair extensions are available.
Virgin Hair Extensions – Virgin hair extensions are made from the first cut of hair from a single donor, meaning the hair hasn’t been dyed, bleached, or processed in any way. Virgin hair can be more expensive than non-virgin hair, but it’s a great option for those who want a long-lasting style.
Silk Hair Extensions – Silk extensions are made from a synthetic fiber that mimics the look and feel of real human hair. They’re often less expensive than human hair extensions, but they may not last as long.
Hemp Hair Extensions – Hemp hair extensions are a blend of real human hair and hemp fibers. They typically cost less than 100% human hair but last longer than synthetic hair.
Synthetic Hair Extensions – Synthetic hair extensions are made from a mix of different materials, like polyester and nylon, and are often less expensive than real human hair. They’re also available in a wide range of colors and can be easily styled with heat tools.
How Much Do Hair Extensions Cost?
Hair extensions cost can vary depending on the type you choose, the salon you go to, and the amount of hair you need. Human hair extensions are more expensive than synthetic hair extensions. The average cost of a full head of human hair extensions is between $750 and $1,500. But again, the exact cost will depend on a bunch of different factors. In terms of maintenance, you should plan to visit your stylist every 3 to 6 months to have them cut and/or styled, and you should also plan to wash and condition them regularly to keep them looking healthy.
Things to Consider Before Getting Extensions
Hair type: You may need a certain type of extensions if you have thin or fine hair. If you have thick hair, you’ll probably be able to get away with any type of extension.
Length and thickness: Make sure the extensions are long enough to give you the desired look, and make sure they’re long enough to blend in with your natural hair.
Maintenance: Be prepared for the potential extra upkeep that comes with wearing extensions. You’ll have to wash them regularly and visit your stylist to have them cut every few months.
New hair habits: If you get extensions, make sure you’re taking care of your real hair, too. Styling products and tools like heat can be damaging, so try to cut back a bit if you can.
Installing extensions
If you’re going with the full head of extensions, your stylist will cut them to match your hair length and apply them using one of the following methods:
Weft: A weft is a horizontal row of hair attached to a stretchy fabric with a comb-like device of some sort on the back. The weft is then sewn into a track at the top and the bottom, and the track is attached to your real hair. This method is great for those who want to wear their hair up often.
Bouffant: The bouffant method is similar to wafting, except the track is attached at the top of your head and your real hair is wrapped around it. This method is great for those who want to wear their hair down often.
Hidden/invisible: The invisible/hidden method is best for those who want a low-maintenance style, since no tracks are visible. Your stylist will use an extremely thin piece of fabric to attach the hair to your real hair.
Bottom line
Hair extensions are a quick and easy way to give your hair a boost when you’re in need of some volume, length, or just want a fun new look. If you’re looking to add length, volume, or a new color to your hair, extensions can be a quick and easy fix. There are a ton of different types of extensions, each with a different cost and maintenance schedule, so it’s important to understand what’s out there before making your choice.