Hair extensions are a popular way to add length, volume, and versatility to hairstyles. There are various types of hair extensions, including temporary and semi-permanent options. The materials used for hair extensions range from human hair, and mixed human hair, to synthetic fibres. They also have different aftercare and maintenance requirements.
There are many things to consider, if you are new to hair extensions the options of fitting, material and maintenance required may be overwhelming. Within this article, we will discuss the best option for first-time users, we'll consider all the factors and recommend the best place to start in the world of hair extensions.
Types of hair extensions
Temporary hair extensions are designed to be easily applied and removed. These are clip-in hair extensions, which can be attached to the hair using small clips. These are a great option for occasional wear or special occasions. They can easily be removed and re-attached at your convenience which makes them a flexible option for first-time users.
Tape hair extensions are a short-term semi-permanent application, they are attached using adhesive strips that stick to the hair. These extensions typically last for a few weeks before needing to be repositioned or replaced, they are more long-lasting and require professional installation.
There are also longer-term semi-permanent extension methods available such as micro-beads, fusion, and sew-in extensions. These extensions can last for several months with proper maintenance and care.
Types of materials for hair extensions
When it comes to materials, human hair extensions are considered a high standard, as they are made from real human hair. Human hair extensions can be treated like your own hair, allowing for seamless blending and styling versatility. They also tend to have a longer lifespan compared to synthetic options. However this does not mean they are the right option for you, they are more expensive and may not be worth the investment. Human Hair extensions require more time to clip in and styling which might not be suitable for your needs.
Synthetic hair extensions are often pre-styled which makes them a quick and easy material option, they can be clipped in for an instant transformation. They are usually found in a One Piece construction which means there is no faffing with what might be considered complicated for first-time users with sectioning and attaching, with a synthetic One Piece just one section of hair is clipped in. However they are not intended for long-term use, the material can become matted over time and uses and will need to be replaced around every 3 months.
Maintenance required for hair extensions
Different types of hair extensions and materials require varying levels of maintenance and aftercare. Synthetic hair extensions require minimum aftercare and maintenance, they can be simply brushed and stored in a box or extension bag when not in use.
Tape-in extensions will require a maintenance appointment every 6-8 weeks for the tapes to be removed and repositioned. Micro-beads, fusion, and sew-in extensions will need reposting by a skilled professional every 3-6 months.
Semi-permanent applications will need salon-quality shampoo and conditioner to ensure the quality of the extensions is not compromised. As they are semi-permanently fitted they need to endure the excessive brushing, washing, styling and lifestyle activities such as swimming, exercising and the outdoor elements in which your hair endures.
You will also need to be wise when brushing and styling the hair, they shouldn't be removed at home so users must allow for extra care and dedication to commit to the correct aftercare recommendations.
The best option for first-time users
While bearing the above information in mind you can surmise that some hair extension types require a financial and time commitment. For this reason, we would recommend clip-in hair extensions as a great first-time option for women who are new to hair extensions. This will allow you to trial the hair extensions, and see how they feel and look in your hair, which will help you decide if you'd like to explore other options.
The cost implications of trialling clip-in hair extensions are low so the financial risk is not going to be too scary for experimenting, however, the financial commitment to semi-permanent extensions can be a significant investment for many women. Long-term extensions like micro-beads, fusion, and sew-in extensions are intended to be worn for long periods before removal, this could be problematic if after one week you decide you do not like the extensions. Removing them after a short period would be damaging to your natural hair and could even induce long-term damage to your hair.
Long-term hair extensions should not be fitted without proper skills and equipment, you will need to pay a professional for the fitting and removal as well as the aftercare products, this is a major investment for something completely new to you.
You should also consider if you have the time required to attend maintenance appointments and the extra time required for styling each morning. Specific care and consideration are needed for semi-permanent applications, therefor before committing to a semi-permanent application you should think about your availability to do so.
Clip-in hair extensions for first-time users
As we have evaluated that clip-in hair extensions are a great starting point for women new to hair extensions, you may be wondering what type of clip-in hair extensions are recommended.
This would depend on your hair type, many women find a One Piece the simplest hair extension to apply as it is so very easy to do so, however, the One Piece is thick and if your hair is very fine it may not be suitable for you.
In this case, we would recommend trailing a human hair clip-in extension which is specifically designed for women with thin hair, like a Seamless Set. As the Seamless Set has an ultra-thin track which is undetectable in fine hair this would be a great option if you have particularly thin hair, as it is still a clip-in set you have the flexibility to clip in and remove it at your free will and experiment with the number of pieces you use and the positioning.
