If you want longterm extensions, ones that you want woven or glued into your hair, you may want to spend the extra money on real extensions. For best results, get extensions directly from your stylist and have them designed for you. You want extensions to look natural, so you should have them colored and shaped for you hair type. [1] X Research source If you’re looking for extensions you can take in and out, which you will not wear all the time, you may be able to get by with synthetic extensions. There are two types of synthetic extensions: Toyokalon and Kanekalon. Kanekalon extensions have more fiber, meaning they’re more resistant to heat. If you plan on styling or curling your extensions, go with Kanekalon. Toyokalon are not as easy to style, but may last longer.
For example, say you want to add 5 inches of hair. The length from the center of your hair to your tips is 10 inches. You would want extensions 15 inches in length. Keep in mind where the center of your hair falls depends on your hair type, as well as torso and neck length. Therefore, it’s a good idea to ask your stylist for a length recommendation before making a purchase.
Real hair extensions tend to be very pricey. A partial head of extensions will cost between $400 and $800. A full head of hair extensions designed to just fill out your hair will cost between $1,300 and $1,600. If you want to fill out your hair and add length, the cost will be $1,600 to $4,000. Synthetic extensions will cost much less. Things like clip-ons or hair flips are particularly cheap. While synthetic hair is not recommended, it’s a decent option if you’re on a budget.
As stated, real hair is going to cost you more. However, you may be able to find cheaper, synthetic extensions. Price ranges may vary slightly from salon to salon and store to store, so look out for minor differences in prices. Do research on a salon before settling on it. If prices are lower, make sure the salon still has a good reputation. Low prices may indicate poor quality. Also, call a variety of salons and ask about added costs. The cost of attaching the extensions will vary. In addition to paying a lot for the extensions themselves, there’s a cost of labor you should consider.
You should be sure to do some research before making an online purchase. Read user reviews to make sure that type of extension has a good reputation.
Strand by strand extensions and tubing extensions are inserted into your hair for the longterm. Usually, you will have to go to a salon to have these types of extensions woven into your hair. This can be time consuming and costly, but will give you extensions that will stay in for the longterm. [4] X Research source Other types of longterm hair extensions are glued or fused to the heat using heat, cold, or glue. These also usually require a salon visit. [5] X Research source Micro tube extensions are also longterm, but easier to apply and less damaging. You clamp these extensions onto existing hair without any adhesives, which may cause less damage to hair than other permanent options. If you have some experience working with hair, you may be able to use a tube extension kit on your own. However, most people will need a salon. [6] X Research source
Hair clips and hair flips are shorter term extensions, which you clip or attach yourself in the morning when getting ready. They are generally cheaper and easier to apply than more permanent measures. However, the process of attaching hair clips or flips each morning can take awhile. Hair flips tend to be slightly more expensive than clips, but are generally easier to attach.
Look at a variety of color options. It’s a good idea to see extensions in real life before making a purchase to make sure they match your hair tone. If you can’t find extensions that match your own hair color, you may want to consider coloring your hair at home or professionally. You can then purchase extensions to match. Usually, you want extensions colored ahead of time. Extensions are not as strong as regular hair, so dyeing them to match yours can cause damage. Dyed hair extensions tend to not last as long. Certain hair tones, like reds and highlights, may be lighter on extensions. If your extensions are old, and you’ve already gotten a lot of use out of them, it may make sense to simply dye them if their color fades.
