Not everyone is born with naturally long or voluminous hair. For those wanting fuller length or added body, professional enhancements offer the perfect solution to add hair extensions. They come in a wide range of shades, textures, and styles—letting you instantly transform your look with confidence.
How Different Types of Hair Extensions Work
Well, that depends on what type you choose. There are four main types of them that can help you achieve a natural look. These include:
1. Tape-In
Tape-in hair extensions are one of the newer options on the market. These thin tape wefts usually span 1 inch wide and feature pre-taped ends that are inserted between sections of hair. What makes tape-ins so popular is that they require no chemicals or tools, are reusable, and can be applied to the entire head with no damage. Depending on the quality of the product, tape-ins can last up to three months on average. The process to insert these extensions typically takes less than one hour to complete.
Benefits of tape-ins:
- Quick installation (often under 1 hour)
- Reusable for multiple applications
- Suitable for fragile or fine hair
- Lightweight & comfortable for daily wear
Longevity & care:
- Up to 3 months per installation
- Minimal tools required
- Low maintenance compared to other methods
2. Clip-In
Clip-in hair extensions are a popular option for those who want a do-it-yourself option. The clips on the extensions open and close onto the roots of your existing hair and will stay put discreetly. With practice, it takes just a few minutes to insert clip-in extensions and they can be removed just as fast. They can be found in various colors to match your natural shade. Many people also use clip-ins as a way to achieve highlights, lowlights, and added volume.
Why people love clip-ins:
- Beginner-friendly & DIY use
- Instant transformation — length, color & volume
- Can be removed daily with no salon visit
Hair type choices:
- Real human hair → natural shine + heat styling allowed
- Synthetic hair → budget-friendly but heat-sensitive
3. Hot Fusion
Also referred to as pre-bonded extensions, hot fusion hair extensions is a traditional extension option that has recently become one of the most popular options on the market. These extensions are applied differently than tape-in and clip-on extensions and generally last longer. These extensions are applied differently than tape-in and clip-on extensions and generally last longer. Hot Fusion extensions are actually fitted using a heat gun that melts a keratin bond onto a small section of the natural hair. Once the keratin is melted, the material is rolled between the fingers to fuse the extensions onto the hair.
Advantages of hot fusion strands:
- Long-lasting: 4–6 months with proper care
- Seamlessly blends with natural hair
- Color-matching & highlight-friendly
- Low maintenance once installed
Considerations:
- Must be installed by trained professionals
- Slight heat exposure during application
4. Weft
Another option to consider if you are interested in getting extensions are called weft hair extensions, also known as ‘machine weft’. Instead of small sections of hair that are taped, clipped, or glued onto the hair, a weft is one long piece made up of extensions sewn together. The sections are then cut up into smaller pieces to fit each person’s head.
Wefts are sewn into braids by a professional hairdresser to get a natural look. Several rows of extensions can be added until the preferred volume is reached. Another method involved tying individual strands by hand to create a secure weft. This type of extension tends to be strong but thinner. The end result also sits closer to the head which can make the extensions appear more natural.
Why choose wefts:
- Very secure installation method
- Provides maximum fullness & volume
- Natural-looking results when installed correctly
Application tips:
- Always done by a professional stylist
- Works best for medium to thick hair
Choosing the Right Hair Extensions
If you are new to extensions, it can be difficult to determine which type is best for you. Talk to your hairdresser about your expectations about the length, volume, color, and overall look you want to achieve, as well as other aspects that could impact your decision, such as your budget. Remember that extensions are just temporary and if you are unsatisfied with your final look, you can always change it later.