Types of Hair Extensions (a beginner’s guide)
If you’ve always wanted to add some extra length, volume, or even a pop of color to your hair without committing to the look permanently, you have come to the right place. Different types of hair extensions allow you to get what you wish but the many extension types for hair can become a bit confusing to choose from if you’re new to all of this. Which is why, we have compiled this beginner’s guide to help you select the right type of hair extension for yourself.
What Are Hair Extensions?
Hair extensions are nothing but either synthetic or natural extensions to your real hair. They’re attached to your existing hair in different ways which is exactly what separated them in their type. You can easily experiment with different hairstyles, textures, and even colors by wearing them in your hair without keeping that style forever.
Extensions are available in so many forms but we have always sided with human hair extensions for women because they are undoubtedly the best. Their look and feel is the same as your own hair and they’re undetectable when you wear them.
They’re easy to use, comfortable to wear all day, and stay securely attached until you choose to remove them. They can either be temporary, semi-permanent, or permanent.
Choosing the best type of hair extensions for yourself will depend on your individual needs, expectations, natural hair type, styling needs, and how much time you can invest in maintaining them. To make this decision easier for you, let us dive right into the different types of extensions, their specific lifespans, and how much care each of them need.
Different Types of Hair Extensions
1. Clip-In Hair Extensions
We have put them on the top of this list since they are the easiest and best type of hair extension, and literally the ideal choice for beginners. These will come with small clips which can directly be attached to your hair like you would a normal clip.
You can add some extra volume to your hair using them in under minutes. And the loveliest thing about human hair extensions is that they are lightweight and comfortable, so much so that you wouldn’t even notice wearing them!
● Best for: Temporary use, events, or trying out new hairstyles.
● Pros: Quick to apply, reusable, and non-damaging.
● Cons: Not suitable for long-term wear or while sleeping.
● Maintenance Tip: Always brush them gently and store them in a tangle-free bag.
This is where you can get yours— https://www.thegorgeoushair.com/collections/clip-in-extensions
2. Tape-In Hair Extensions
Another good choice is the tape-in extension types of hair, which are basically thin wefts of hair with tapes on either side which are used for sandwiching in between sections of your natural hair. They’re lightweight and invisible but you’ll need to have them adjusted once every few weeks as your hair grows out or the adhesive becomes less effective.
● Best for: Fine or thin hair.
● Pros: Seamless, lightweight, and natural-looking.
● Cons: Require professional installation and removal. Adhesive may weaken with improper care.
● Maintenance Tip: Avoid oily products near the roots to prevent slippage.
Here’s a link where you can get the best ones—https://www.thegorgeoushair.com/products/tape-in-extensions
3. Sew-In (Weave) Extensions
These are a semi-permanent type of hair extension which will be braided into your natural hair as shown in the picture. But you must only go for this one if you have thick, coarse hair.
● Best for: Thick, strong hair types.
● Pros: Long-lasting, secure, and great for protective styling.
● Cons: Can cause tension on the scalp and may feel uncomfortable if applied too tightly.
● Maintenance Tip: Clean your scalp thoroughly and moisturize the braids to avoid itchiness.
4. Micro-Link Extensions
Out of the many different types of extensions, these are tiny wefts which are attached to small strands of your hair with the help of tiny metal beads. This is done by a salon professional and like tape-ins and sew-ins, you’ll need to have these readjusted every few weeks too.
One plus point of this type of hair extension is that there isn’t any glue or heat involved which can damage your hair. Here’s where you can get the best ones—https://www.thegorgeoushair.com/products/i-tip-micro-rings
- Best for: Medium to thick hair.
- Pros: Reusable, non-damaging, and allows for versatile styling.
- Cons: Requires regular tightening and professional maintenance.
- Maintenance Tip: Be gentle while brushing to avoid loosening the beads.
5. Keratin Bond Extensions
These permanent hair extensions look good at a glance because of how long they last before having to get redone again, but aren’t really recommended to go for. This is a type of hair extension which is attached to your natural hair using a keratin-based adhesive that is melted with heat for attaching these extensions to your hair.
They can last for months but are harder to care for and might cause damage to your hair too. They’ll be done by a salon professional too.
- Best for: Long-term use or special occasions.
- Pros: Natural-looking, long-lasting, and discreet.
- Cons: Requires professional installation and removal. Heat can damage natural hair if not done correctly.
- Maintenance Tip: Avoid oil-based products and excessive heat styling near the bonds.
6. Halo Hair Extensions
So, these are the extension types for hair which have a single weft which is attached to a clear wire. This wire will sit like a halo around your head, hence the name. They are one of the easiest extension types for hair when it comes to applying and removing, after clip-ins.
- Best for: Quick transformations with minimal effort.
- Pros: No damage, reusable, and adjustable to fit your head size.
- Cons: Limited styling options and not suitable for very short hair.
- Maintenance Tip: Store them flat to maintain their shape.
7. Ponytail Extensions
There are so many different types of hair extensions and these were designed to add more volume to your already made ponytail. Simple and easy to wear, they come with a claw-clip which can just be wrapped around your existing ponytail as shown in the image.
- Best for: Creating sleek ponytails or voluminous updos.
- Pros: Easy to use, versatile, and reusable.
- Cons: Not suitable for loose hairstyles.
- Maintenance Tip: Use a wide-tooth comb to prevent tangling.
You can get yours here— https://www.thegorgeoushair.com/products/pony-tail-extensions
How to Choose the Best Type of Hair Extensions
Out of all, the best type of hair extensions for you really depends on your personal needs. Opting for human hair extensions is the only fair choice because they can be heat styled. Rest, the type of hair extension you choose shouldn’t really be a concern because that is something individual to every woman.
For someone who is new to extensions, clip-ins are certainly the go-to choice.
Factors to Consider
1. Hair Type: Tape-ins work best for fine hair, while sew-ins are ideal for thick, coarse hair.
2. Budget: Clip-ins are cost-effective, while keratin bonds can be more expensive.
3. Styling Needs: Determine whether you want a temporary or permanent solution.
4. Time Commitment: Consider how much time you’re willing to spend on maintenance.
Tips for Maintaining Hair Extensions
Proper maintenance ensures your hair extensions look flawless and last longer:
1. Brush Regularly: Use a detangling brush to prevent knots.
2. Wash Gently: Use sulfate-free shampoos and avoid scrubbing the roots.
3. Limit Heat Styling: Excessive heat can damage both natural and synthetic extensions.
4. Store Properly: Keep temporary extensions in a tangle-free bag or box.
5. Visit a Stylist: Regular check-ups ensure long-lasting, damage-free results.
Final Thoughts
We hope our guide could help you in choosing the right type of hair extension for yourself. If you’re still confused on the different types of extensions or which ones might be the best type of hair extensions for you depending on your specific needs, you can book a free video call consultation with us today. We can surely help you select from the many different types of hair extensions then.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the most natural-looking extensions?
Keratin bond extensions and tape-ins.
2. Can hair extensions damage my natural hair?
When they’re applied and maintained correctly, extensions are totally safe. Improper use is what leads to damage in most cases.
3. How long do extensions last?
Clip-ins last for 3-4 years with proper care, tape-ins last 6–8 weeks before having to get reattached, and keratin bonds will last up to 4 months with appropriate care.
4. Are extensions suitable for short hair?
Yes, extensions like clip-ins or tape-ins can be customized to blend with short hair.
5. Can I dye my extensions?
Yes, human hair extensions can be dyed too just as your own hair.
6. How do I maintain hair extensions?
Use sulfate-free shampoos, avoid excessive heat styling, and brush gently to avoid tangles.
7. What is the cost of hair extensions?
Human hair extensions cost higher but they’re worth the investment as they will last for years to come if they’re handled with good care. And different types of hair extensions cost variably.
8. Are extensions suitable for active lifestyles?
Yes, clip-ins are great for flexibility and permanent options are the ones that need extra care.
9. Can I sleep with extensions in?
Permanent extensions e.g. keratin bonds are safe for sleeping, but clip-ins must always be removed while sleeping and showering to avoid damaging your hair.
10. Which extensions are best for beginners?
Clip-in extensions are the easiest and most beginner-friendly option.