A Comprehensive Guide For Choosing The Best Hair Extensions

The world is vast when it comes to extensions, and when the purpose is to add volume and thickness to the hair without harming it, it may seem nearly impossible. It is crucial to know that various hair types must be matched appropriately with hair extension materials to achieve the best results, such as looking natural while preserving the hair’s quality. This hair extension guide will discuss the best hair extensions for different hair types and factors to consider when choosing hair extensions.

What are the best hair extensions?

Fusion or Bonded Hair extensions 

Fusion or bonded extensions are considered one of the most effective options for increasing the volume and length of medium to thick hair. This section examines their appropriateness, sustainability, and other aspects of appropriate use. 

Ideal for: Medium to Thick Hair 

Fusion hair extensions are long-lasting but effective for adding volume and length to natural hair. In this method, single strands of human hair are bonded to your hair with a special glue or a chemical solution resembling keratin- the protein found in human hair. 

Thus, the point is to retain a connection with those extensions and avoid using oil-based or conditioning products near the attachment points. While some may require considerable time to apply, it is worth the investment because they have a long shelf life. It is essential to know that if these extensions are removed, they cannot be reapplied; therefore, a new set must be bought each time. 

Tape-In Hair Extensions 

For people with thin or even thinner hair textures, tape-in hair extensions are the best thing to ever happen to them. This segment focuses on how they operate and their advantages, then gives insights on how best to maintain them to achieve that perfect look.

Ideal for: Fine, thin hair 

Tape-in extensions are quite a unique solution for people with thin hair types. These wefts are glued directly on the hair using double- or single-sided tape, giving a close-to-nature blend.  The secret to keeping them discrete is that silicone or oily substances at the base that interfere with the grip should not be used.  However, hair tape-in extensions are removable and relatively easy to apply, making them the most preferred method for adding volume to hair without weight. 

Weave or Sew-In Extensions 

This segment explores the world of weaves and sew-ins. It is dedicated to people with coarse, curly, or thick hair and offers tips on using this technique for a unique new look. 

Ideal for Coarse, curly, or thick hair 

For some people with strong hair textures, a weave or sew-in is the most appropriate technique for adding these hairpieces. This technique involves making cornrows with hair wefts sewn neatly onto the head. It is easy to apply, does not use heat or glue, and makes it a favorable treatment for hair enhancement. Proper maintenance needs to be done weekly through washing and tightening it every four weeks so that the weave will remain of good quality. However, this option is not advisable for lighter hair types because it puts much strain on the hair and can damage it significantly. 

Micro-bead/Micro-Ring Hair Extensions 

Micro-bead or micro-ring extension is a no-heat method for medium to thick hair. This part of the research describes the various benefits of this particular method and how to ensure the purity of these extensions.

Ideal for medium to thick hair types. 

Micro-bead or micro-ring extensions ensure that extensions are attached tightly without glue or lint and are not subjected to any heat to be attached.  Since the beads are hidden, this method provides a long-lasting application that suits those with thick hair. The kind of hair care products to be applied should also be considered, especially leaving out the oils and silicones at the scalp, as this leads to slippage. This method is more long-lasting but does not work as well for individuals with thick hair types due to the exposure of the beads. 

Clip-in Extensions 

Clip-in extensions allow clients to wear fuller and longer hair without committing to permanent styling. Here, we will discuss choosing, fitting, and maintaining the Clip-in extensions as best as possible. 

Ideal for: Medium-density hair 

Clip-in extensions are also ideal for anyone who wants to add a little change temporarily for events or holidays. They need some skill for perfect application, but switching between styles is easy when you get it right. However, removing these extensions before sleeping is important to help avoid some negative impacts on normal hair. Clip-ins are useful for anyone wanting to try hair extensions but not get a complete set.

Four Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Hair Extensions 

Given the many styles and best type of hair extensions on the market today, you have to start considering them. They differ in color, length, and thickness, so one must ponder which type most appeals to their tastes.  Besides the price, final look, and salon, four factors must be considered when deciding on hair extensions. 

1. Material 

Among the many hair extension options available in the market, you can choose between two main types: natural human hair and synthetic hair used for making wigs. The former, aptly named, is the most natural looking hair extensions down to the roots. 

On the other hand, synthetic hair extensions are made of one hundred percent fine blended fiber. Of course, synthetic extensions contain no human hair, but the plastics used in their production are somehow produced to resemble human hair as much as possible. 

2. Quality 

When purchasing anything, you must ensure you receive or buy quality stuff. Human hair extensions provide the best quality hair extensions you need. If considerate care and maintenance are employed on human hair extensions, they can last for as long as one year. 

However, synthetic hair extensions can also have the same effect, which attracts the price difference. Remembering that synthetic extensions differ from human hair extensions regarding the expected usable time would be best. The longest they can go is about one or two months, depending on how well they are treated. 

3. Look and Texture

The various styles and colors of hair extensions present you with the available choices, although they are not similar in appearance and texture. With synthetic hair extensions, one feels like they may not be real hair and are not trimmed like natural human hair. 

They can come out either as rough hair or bristly, like mere wire-like structures, and they cannot easily blend with one’s natural hair. So, if you desire a product that imitates natural hair in every possible manner, use human hair extensions, as they can respond like ordinary hair. 

4. Treatments and Styling 

This is because human hair extensions are made from natural human hair, unlike primarily synthetic wigs. Human hair extensions can be styled in the same manner as natural hair. If you want to bleach, color, curl, or straighten them, anything is possible with them, and you can do it quickly. 

On the other hand, synthetic hair is the exact opposite: it is fine and can only be conditioned with specific treatments and styles.  Many chemicals, such as bleach, hair dyes, etc., are incompatible with synthetic hair and can lead to excess shedding or even cause the hair extensions to melt if exposed to heat, such as curling irons and straighteners.

Final words

Choosing a hair extension requires considering certain features, such as hair types and the wearer's daily lifestyle.  If the choice and maintenance of the extensions are done right, they can be a pleasant and beautiful addition to your natural hair.