Hair extensions are your shortcut to enjoy really any hairstyle you want. Not only can this help to add length, but you can also ensure a luxurious and voluminous mane. Then, of course, is the fact that you can incorporate highlights without actually undergoing the chemical process or any kind of damage to your hair!
If you’re planning to get hair extensions and are wondering which method you should opt for, read on as we discuss the pros and cons of the most popular ones below.
Hair Extension Method No. 1: Clip In Hair Extension
In this method, the wefts of hair are attached to your hair using small pressure sensitive clips with silicon which also makes suitable for everyday wear.
The biggest advantage of this method is that you can easily put it on and take out on a regular basis while also being flexible with the color options and style. You also don’t need to enlist the services of a licensed cosmetologist if you decide to get this type of hair extensions.
However, the biggest con of clip in hair extensions is that you have to remove them before bedtime. If you have fine and thin hair, again, these might look too bulky or heavy giving an unnatural appearance. Overall, if you are able to invest time and effort to properly care and maintain for these extensions, you can easily opt for these.
Hair Extension Method No. 2: Weft Hair Extension
Under this method, a 2 to 4-inch wide hair weft is applied to the hair in alternate rows. You can go with tape-in weft extension or sew-in (weave) hair extension in this case.
For tape-in hair extensions, the hair strands are attached to either double or single-sided PU tape. Single-sided tape hair extension is more suitable for people who have very thin hair around the sides and the temples of the head. You can get a glorious head of hair within 20 to 40 minutes if you are looking for more volume but, it can also take an hour in case of full-length application. There is also minimal use of any kind of heat or tools which also makes it one of the safest methods available in the market at the moment. If you are able to maintain the hair extensions properly, the lasting can be anywhere between 7 to 8 months in addition to being reusable.
Having said this, during the first two days of the hair extension application, you cannot wash your hair and also have to protect the scalp from excessive sweat. If you use oil or silicone-based products directly on the adhesive, the panels may also shift causing you discomfort.
If you have coarse, thick, or curly hair, you should opt for weave or sew-in hair extensions where the wefts are sewn into the braids, which also serves as the foundation, using a needle and thread. The main problem with weave hair extensions is that the application can take a lot of time and even the hairstyling options are limited. You have to ensure that your hair care routine is optimal with periodic shampooing as well to avoid infections.
However, since sew-in hair extensions do not use any kind of heat or glue, this has a lower tendency to slip even after you use oil or silicone-based products. But yes, the braids shouldn’t become loose to avoid such situations.
Hair Extension Method No. 3: Strand by Strand Hair Extension
Strand by strand hair extension methods is when the extensions are attached to small pieces of your own hair using hot or cold application techniques. The extensions have a keratin glue bond and can be about 0.5 g to 1 g. If they don’t use the keratin glue, a micro link is used instead. To help you understand the intricacies of this method better, we have discussed the two techniques in greater detail below.
1. Hot Fusion Technique
Using a heating tool, a hairdresser will attach Keratin U-tip bonds to your natural hair strands melting the keratin glue so as to seal the extension in. You don’t have to worry about this causing any kind of discomfort as, enough space is left during the attachment process to eliminate any restricted movement of your natural hair.
You should opt for this method if you have hair that is on the thicker side and prefer a more natural finish. The lasting of these hair extensions is also long ranging from 5 to 6 months provided you are diligent with its maintenance.
But, this method is also time-consuming and can take anywhere between two to six hours of your day. The biggest issue though has to be the fact that the hair extensions need to be installed via hot fusion which, in turn, makes it dangerous to both the stylist as well as damaging for your hair. If you have a sensitive scalp and thin hair, you may also experience itchiness or feel uncomfortable within the first couple of weeks of getting these extensions.
2. Cold Fusion, Micro-Links or I-tip Technique
Here, small sections of your hair will be pulled through a lock or small beads and then, using hair extension pliers will be clamped shut. This makes way for more natural movement and absolutely no use of any adhesive or heat on your scalp. The hair extensions are reusable and can last up to 6 months without any issue. Just don’t forget to schedule an appointment with an experienced technician who knows how to get the job done correctly.
Just like the hot fusion method, cold fusion is also a lengthy process involving up to 6 to 7 hours. Furthermore, if the locks or beams are misplaced, your extensions will be visible and also be prone to slippage. Don’t opt for this method if you have extremely fine hair or have a tendency of your scalp getting itchy.
Resources – Moresoo, Modern Salon