Long, lush hair never goes out of style. From full old Hollywood glamour to sleek avant-garde looks to relaxed boho beach waves, you can style long hair into just about any aesthetic you want to explore. But let’s admit it: picture-perfect long hair isn’t always achievable with our natural hair alone. Maybe you don’t want to fully commit to growing it out, or perhaps growing your hair naturally isn’t the best option due to hair health, genetics, or general physical health. Or it could just be a style choice, allowing you to switch between short and long hair as you please.
That’s where hair extensions come in handy! There are all kinds of different extensions with varying lasting powers.
Let’s look into the most common kinds of hair extensions to see which one will work best for you!
How Long Do Hair Extensions Last?
The type of extensions you should get mainly depends on the longevity you prefer. There are some temporary options if you’re trying out long hair for now or maybe need it for a photoshoot or a big event. Meanwhile, if you’re in it for the long haul and want to rock long hair daily, some extensions can last for months.
Here are the different types of hair extensions we are reviewing:
- Clip-In Extensions
- Tape-In Extensions
- Sew-In Extensions or Full Weaves
- Fusion or Bonded Extensions
- Microlink or Micro Bead Extensions
Clip-in extensions are the most temporary option, while the others involve more advanced application techniques and range from semi-permanent to long-lasting.
How Long Do Clip-In Hair Extensions Last?
Clip-ins are the best for one-time uses or if you’re looking for something very temporary. Of all the choices, clip-ins are the easiest to put in and remove. They work because “wefts” (the hair extension equivalent of a lock of natural hair) have small fasteners attached to the band that keep the weft extensions together. These are then hooked onto the natural roots of the hair and placed strategically to give your hair a longer, fuller look.
Clip-in extensions can be clipped in and out of your hair in minutes. So, they can last for a day if you want a quick and easy way to get long, mermaid-like locks. Clip-in extensions give the best results for the DIY-savvy who want to skip going to the salon for application. They’re also great for storage and can last a long time, even up to a year or more, when stored well after use. It’s also a good option to avoid heat and glue on your natural hair.
However, the only downside is that they can cause tension and potentially breakage if not applied correctly or worn for extended periods, as your roots carry the weight of the extension. You should only wear this kind of extension for short periods, such as for a special event or a day out.
What’s the lifespan of your extensions from the Salon?
Now, we should explore the options that are best applied and maintained by a professional. These extensions, which can last from semi-permanent to several months with proper care, require the expertise of a stylist for their application and removal.
How Long Do Tape-In Hair Extensions Last?
Tape-in hair extensions are a popular semi-permanent option. They’re not as temporary as clip-ins, but they won’t last as long as some more permanent methods. With proper care, tape-ins can last anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks.
As the name suggests, they use a medical-grade adhesive to hold them in place. Two wefts of extension hair are applied like a sandwich, with a thin section of your natural hair in between. This process usually requires a professional stylist to ensure proper placement and prevent damage.
Removal also requires a professional, as a special solution is used to break down the adhesive, allowing for gentle removal. Tape-in extensions are often reusable! This requires touch-ups from your stylist to re-tape the wefts and prevent the adhesive from becoming gummy or damaging your natural hair.
Tape-ins can be a bit more high-maintenance. Products containing oil or silicone, or excessive heat directly applied to the bonds, can weaken the adhesive and cause slippage.
How Long Do Permanent Hair Extensions Last?
“Permanent” hair extensions don’t mean forever, but they are designed to last for several months. Their longevity varies depending on the attachment technique.
Here’s a deep dive into some of the most common long-lasting hair extensions:
How long do sew-in hair extensions or Weaves last?
Sew-in extensions, commonly known as weaves, are one of the most widely known and durable methods. Weaves can typically last anywhere from 6 to 10 weeks. Taking them out within this timeframe is generally recommended to allow your scalp to breathe and properly care for your natural hair underneath. Deep conditioning and moisturizing your natural hair in between installations are essential.
It’s crucial to have sew-in extensions applied by an experienced hairdresser. The process can be quite time-consuming and can cause significant damage if not done correctly. This is because your natural hair is braided into tight cornrows close to the scalp, and then the hand-tied wefts are sewn onto these braids using a needle and thread.
While secure, this process can cause tension on the scalp and hair follicles. Therefore, if you have very fine or fragile hair or are prone to hair loss, you should discuss alternatives with your stylist.
Fusion Extensions and Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions: How Long Do They Last?
Fusion hair extensions, often called pre-bonded hair extensions, are known for their natural look and longevity. With the right upkeep, they can last anywhere from 3 to 5 months, and in some cases, even up to 6 months.
Unlike methods that use clips or thread, bonded hair extensions use keratin bond, the natural protein that makes up the majority of our hair. Small sections of extension hair, pre-tipped with keratin bond, are attached to small sections of your natural hair using a heat tool that melts the keratin, creating a secure bond.
The hair used in each section of a bonded extension is typically high-quality, untreated human hair, allowing you to care for it much like your natural hair. However, it’s best to avoid oil-based products directly on the bonds and excessive heat to prevent premature breakdown of the keratin. Swimming in chlorinated or saltwater regularly can also affect the longevity of the bonds.
How Long Do Microlink or Micro Bead Hair Extensions Last?
Microlink extensions also known as microbead or I-tip extensions, is another popular long-lasting option. These extensions typically last for 3-4 months before needing maintenance appointments or reinstallation.
In this method, small sections of extension hair (often pre-tipped in an I-shape) are threaded through tiny silicone-lined beads along with small sections of natural hair. The bead is then clamped shut with a special tool, securing the extension without the need for heat or glue.
Microlinks offer a good balance of natural look and reusability. The beads can often be opened and moved up as your natural hair grows, allowing for adjustments without a full re-installation. However, improper installation methods or removal can cause damage to your natural hair, including breakage and tension. It’s crucial to have these installed and maintained by an experienced professional. Similar to other methods, avoiding oil-based products directly on the beads can help maintain their grip.
Thin Hair and Hair Extensions
For those with fine or thinning hair, adding length and volume can seem like a distant dream or even a risky endeavor. While the concern about further damage is valid, the good news is that with the right knowledge and professional guidance, hair extensions can be a safe and transformative solution for thin hair. It’s all about choosing the correct method and prioritizing hair health.
The Delicate Balance: Why Thin Hair Needs Special Care
Thin hair is more delicate and prone to breakage than thicker hair. This means that any added weight or tension from extensions can potentially lead to stress on the hair follicles, and in severe cases, even a condition called traction alopecia (hair loss due to constant pulling). Therefore, selecting lightweight options and making sure that a skilled professional isn’t applied correctly.
Best Hair Extension Options for Thin Hair
The goal of thin hair is to add volume and length without overburdening your natural strands. Here are the methods generally considered most suitable:
- Clip-In Extensions:
- Why they’re great for thin hair: These are the ultimate temporary solution. Because you can remove them daily, they put no long-term stress on your hair. Lightweight, seamless clip-ins are designed to lie flat and blend discreetly, offering instant volume and length for special occasions or when you want a different look.
- Considerations: While generally safe, ensure the clips aren’t too heavy or pulling on your roots. Proper placement and removal are key to avoiding tension.
- Tape-In Extensions:
- Why they’re great for thin hair: Tape-ins are a popular semi-permanent choice for fine hair due to their lightweight nature and wide, flat wefts. The adhesive strips distribute the weight evenly across a broader section of your natural hair, reducing concentrated tension on individual strands.
- Considerations: Professional application and removal are crucial to prevent damage. They require specific care (avoiding oil-based products on the bonds, gentle brushing) to maintain their hold and prevent stickiness or matting. Single-sided tape-ins can also be an option for extremely fine hair to reduce weight.
- Micro-Link/Micro-Bead Extensions (Miniature Micro Rings/Nanobonds):
- Why they’re great for thin hair: These methods involve attaching small sections of extension hair using tiny, silicone-lined beads that are clamped onto your natural hair. Because no heat or glue is involved, they are considered less damaging. Miniature micro rings or nanobonds, which are even smaller, offer exceptional discretion and minimal weight, making them particularly suitable for very fine hair.
- Considerations: Proper installation and maintenance by an experienced stylist are essential to prevent damage from overtightening or incorrect clamping. Regular repositioning is needed as your hair grows to avoid tension at the root.
- Halo Extensions:
- Why they’re great for thin hair: Halo extensions are unique because they don’t directly attach to your hair using clips, beads, or bonds. Instead, they sit on your head like a headband, with a discreet, invisible wire that rests around the crown. This makes them incredibly gentle and damage-free, as they put no stress on your natural hair.
- Considerations: They are a temporary, daily-wear option. While they offer fantastic volume, some may find them less secure for active lifestyles than attached methods.
- Hand-Tied Wefts (with modifications for thin hair):
- Why they’re great for thin hair: While traditional sew-ins can be too heavy for thin hair, hand-tied wefts applied to a very fine, strategically placed beaded row can work for some with thin hair. The wefts themselves are lighter than machine-made wefts. The key is using minimal anchor points and ensuring the natural hair adequately supports the weft.
- Considerations: This method requires a highly skilled stylist experienced with delicate hair. The braids and beads must be tiny and expertly placed to prevent tension and visibility. This is generally not recommended for severely thinning hair.
Methods to Approach with Caution (or Avoid) for Thin Hair:
- Traditional Sew-In Weaves: The tight cornrow braids required for this method can put significant tension on already fragile thin hair, potentially leading to breakage and traction alopecia.
- Fusion/Bonded Extensions (especially standard K-tips): While keratin bonds offer a natural look, the small attachment point can concentrate weight on a tiny thin hair section. The heat used for application and removal can also be a concern for delicate strands. Micro K-tips (smaller bonds) may be a more viable option if this method is preferred, but consultation with a specialist is crucial.
Essential Tips for Wearing Extensions with Thin Hair:
- Consult a Specialist: This is the most crucial step. A reputable stylist specializing in extensions for fine hair will assess your hair’s health and density, recommend the most suitable method, and ensure proper application.
- Choose Lightweight Extensions: Always opt for extensions specifically designed to be lightweight to avoid undue stress on your natural hair.
- Prioritize Quality: High-quality human hair extensions look and feel more natural, blend seamlessly, and are less likely to tangle or cause issues.
- Gentle Application and Removal: Ensure your stylist uses gentle techniques during both application and removal. Please don’t try to remove permanent extensions yourself.
- Less is More: For thin hair, sometimes fewer wefts or strands, strategically placed, can achieve the desired effect without overwhelming your natural hair.
- Proper Aftercare: Follow your stylist’s aftercare instructions religiously. Use recommended sulfate-free and oil-free products, brush gently with an extension-friendly brush, and avoid excessive heat.
- Regular Maintenance: Adhere to your stylist’s schedule for maintenance appointments to have the extensions moved up or reinstalled. This will prevent matting and tension as your natural hair grows.
- Give Your Hair Breaks: If possible, consider giving your natural hair a break between extension installations to allow it to rest and recover.
Hair extensions can be a fantastic solution for adding volume and length to thin hair, boosting confidence and styling versatility. By making informed choices and entrusting your hair to a skilled professional, you can enjoy beautiful, fuller hair without compromising its health.
FAQs
Can hair extensions be permanent?
Permanent extensions don’t truly mean forever. Depending on the process used, they can last from around 6-8 weeks (for tape-ins and weaves) to 3-6 months (for fusion and microlinks). It’s always recommended to have your hair extensions redone or repositioned at the end of these cycles. This is both to maintain their look and ensure your scalp and natural hair remain healthy.
Can hair extensions last 2 years?
On your head, definitely not. However, you can store your hair extensions (especially clip-ins, and sometimes reusable tape-ins, weaves, or microlinks) between uses to make the hair itself last longer.
Be sure to wash your hair extensions carefully and let them air dry completely before storing them in a box or on a hanger designed for extensions. Make sure you keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent them from deteriorating. You can even gently brush or straighten your hair extensions to keep them from tangling before storage. If they do end up getting tangled in storage, try soaking them in conditioner first and gently brushing them out to see if you can salvage them.
Can you wash hair extensions?
Yes! Most hair extensions made with natural human hair can be washed the way you wash your own hair, with some important considerations.
One exception is clip-in extensions: it’s best to take them out before washing your natural hair and only wash the clip-ins themselves when product build-up is significant.
- It’s recommended to use lukewarm water when cleaning.
- Always be gentle, especially at the roots or bonds, to avoid tugging or loosening the extensions.
- It’s best to use a sulfate-free shampoo to avoid frizziness and prevent drying out your extensions and potentially weakening bonds.
- Deep conditioning your hair and using hair masks are also great for preventing dryness and maintaining the hair’s quality.
- Always double-check if your specific hair extensions can tolerate heat before using any hot tools when drying and styling. Air drying is often recommended when possible.
- One exception is clip-in extensions: it’s best to take them out before washing your natural hair and only wash the clip-ins themselves when product build-up is significant.
Conclusion
So, if you’ve been dreaming of long, luscious hair, there’s an extension out there that can work well for you. Whether you want to have long tresses just for the day or keep them for months, just make sure to research what type of extensions works best for your needs, hair type, and lifestyle. Always consider the application methods, whether you’d prefer something temporary or long-lasting, and if it involves adhesives, thread, beads, or protein bonds. Then, go ahead and enjoy long hair at long last!