Extensions are one of the most commonly used hair accessories in the world. However, unlike more modern fashion accessories, these are not new products. Hair extensions were used by ancient Egyptians, who used human hair and sheep wool in order to lengthen those tresses.
In more recent times, such as in the 1920s and 1960s, hair extensions also grew in popularity and became a popular fashion accessory at the time. Today there are a variety of hair extensions, with each having its own benefits and use case scenarios. Let’s look at 4 of the most popular hair extensions out there today.
#1. Microbead Extensions
This type of hair extension is popular for its low maintenance and versatility. These extensions rely on the use of small beads to which individual strands of extension hair are attached to sections of natural hair.
Due to the high level of skill and expertise required for installation, it is advised to have them installed by a reputable hair extension salon. Chaviv Hair, founded by Violet Tereti, is one such option. Tereti is well known for her experience in working with several high-profile celebrity clients such as Jenifer Lopez and Lady Gaga.
Her salon, Chaviv Hair, uses Slavic hair, which is known for its natural shine and softness. This is important because the quality of hair used makes a big difference to its appearance and longevity. Microbead extensions can last anywhere between 4 – 6 months.
#2. Clip-in Hair Extensions
This type of hair extension is also really popular due to the simplicity and ease with which they can be installed. As the name implies, these extensions are clipped onto a person’s hair. The application and removal are quite easy and can even be done at home within 10 minutes.
One of the many advantages of clip-in extensions is the fact that you can find them in many colors and textures. If you are particularly budget constrained, you can even find clip-in extensions made out of synthetic hair. They may not look as good, but they do the job when you are low on cash.
Clip-in extensions are also quite affordable when compared to other options. With good maintenance, they can last about 3-6 months easily. One of the reasons why these extensions are so popular is that there is minimal damage to your natural hair because of the simple application.
#3. Sew-in Extensions
Sew-in extensions are a much more permanent type and can last for several months. However, it has one major downside, and that is that they are quite difficult to install. These extensions require an expert hairdresser who can carry out the complicated braiding needed to prepare your natural hair for the extension.
The installation process for this type is long and can last for one or more hours. Sew-in extensions are also not as comfortable as clip-in options, as they can be stressful to the scalp and hair roots. If you are considering this option, ensure that you take enough steps to minimize the damage that they sometimes cause.
#4. Tape-in Extensions
This is another common type of extension that uses adhesive tape to attach wefts of hair to your natural locks. While they are simpler in their installation when compared to sew-in extensions, you will still require a hairdresser to install them.
The extensions are basically installed as a sandwich. This means your natural hair is placed in between two wefts of tape-in extensions. The glue needs to be heated up before the extension can be installed, and the alignment of the wefts needs to be perfect. Removing these extensions also requires the use of a glue remover to dissolve the adhesive.
This process poses some risk in terms of damage to your roots due to the exposure your hair gets to adhesives and heat. Installation can take upwards of an hour, and the extensions can last up to 8 weeks. Of course, this depends on how well you care for it.
Conclusion
Extensions are one of the most useful hair accessories out there. Having the ability to change the length of your hair offers a number of benefits. These can include new hairstyles, colors, and highlights without wanting to target your natural hair.
Due to the variety of options available, you should do enough research before deciding to get extensions.
Some types of extensions, such as sew-ins, can feel quite heavy and can even be damaging to the hair and scalp. Consulting with a qualified cosmetologist who can guide you on which type would be ideal for you is a good idea.
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I’m Iskra Banović, editor of Blufashion and the voice behind its fashion, beauty, and lifestyle stories. Fashion, beauty, and lifestyle are my playground, but I’m just as likely to share the messy side of it all, like the time I tested a “must-have” skincare gadget and ended up with glitter stuck in my hair. I love turning trends and everyday finds into something useful (and fun) for real people.
