What Are The Different Types Of Hair Extensions?

Extensions are a great way to add immediate length and volume to your hair. But just what type of hair extensions should you choose? From clip-ins to microlinks, there are many different forms to choose from. This guide takes a look at five of the most popular types of hair extensions.

Clip-in

Clip in hair extensions are the easiest to put in and take out. This makes them the ideal temporary option. Another advantage of clip-ins is that they are relatively cheap. You don’t have to pay someone to put them in and there are many lower priced synthetic wefts available (you can also buy clip-ins with natural hair, which cost slightly more, but are still very affordable). Clip-ins also cause the least amount of damage to your hair compared to other forms of extension. This makes them the most popular option.

Tape-in

Tape in extensions involve ‘taping’ together two wefts with glue. These extensions are fitted to your hair at the roots and typically need to be put in/taken out by a hairdresser. Because this form of extension uses glue and glue remover it can be slightly more damaging to your hair than clip-ins. Tape-ins are worthwhile if you’re looking for a semi-permanent solution. Rather than having to put and take out clip in extensions every day, you can get these extensions fitted and not have to get them removed for 6 to 8 weeks. 

Sew-in

Fitting sew-in extensions typically involves braiding the hair into cornrows and then literally sewing in extensions. As you can imagine, this is fiddly work that only some specialist hairdressers are qualified to do. Appointments take a long time and are not cheap. The biggest benefit of sew-in extensions is the fact that they look seamless and are often the most permanent option (6 to 8 weeks) – while tape-in extensions can still come out if the glue fails, there is little to no chance of sew-in extensions coming out because they are weaved into your hair.

Microlink

Also known as ‘microbead’ hair extensions, these extensions are held in place using small silicone beads. They still need to be fitted by a professional hairdresser, but the process is often quicker and they do not cause as much damage as tape-ins. Microlink hair extensions last 6 to 8 weeks before having to be removed by a hairdresser. They are a semi-permanent option that has been rapidly gaining popularity due to being faster and less damaging than other options. 

Pre-bonded

This form of hair extension is similar to tape-in extensions in that it uses heated glue. But rather than taping together wefts, hair is glued directly to your existing hair. It is the most damaging form of hair extensions and some hairdressers therefore strongly advise against it. The benefit of pre-bonded hair extensions is that they are semi-permanent, fairly seamless and unlikely to come out. You will need to visit a qualified hairdresser who has the right equipment to carry out this form of extension.