Choosing the Best Hair Extensions for You

Hello, I am Sheri King, a hairstylist at JoJo’s House of Beauty. We get calls all the time from clients calling saying they would like hair extensions but are unsure what type of extensions would work best for them. So I took the time to explain a few that we offer. I hope whoever reads this finds it informative, and it helps you on your hair extension journey.

As we all know, hair extension is the new trend, and everyone is wearing them from teenagers to celebrities. But how do you know which type fits your hair needs and gives you that flawless star look? Ask yourself, are you looking for something temporary or longer-term; however, extensions don’t last forever. Now let’s talk about the types of extensions.

Clip-in extensions- are the easiest, fastest way to get long, thick hair in just minutes. Clip-in hair extension is hair wefts that come with clips attached to it for an easy install. You can easily clip the hair extensions on to your hair yourself. However, if you have finer hair, clip-ins may be more challenging to attach to the hair because they can be a little heavy depending on the brand. Clip-in hair extensions are perfect for those who are looking to get thicker hair and longer hair instantly, without the hassle, long-term commitment. You can add them in the morning and take them out at night. This type of extension is suitable for all hair types. Clip-in is made in all hair textures.

Tape-in extensions- This type of extensions is uniquely designed to lay completely seamless and undetectable in the hair. Tape-in extensions usually are made of quality human remy hair with the cuticle intact. This type of hair can be reapplied up to 3 times, while still looking and feeling fabulous. Clients will get 8 to 10 weeks of wear from each application. The color options are endless with this extension. Although this extension is suitable for all hair types, the manageability is easiest on straight or wavy hair. This extension technique is not ideal for short thick hair.

I tip (microbead) extensions- I-Tip extensions are installed with a strand-by-strand application, without using heat or glue, this is an especially great application for those with thinning hair around their hairline. The application process is threading each I-tip with a strand of the client’s hair into the looping tool, applying a bead, and clamping the hair together. The application process can take about 3 hours, depending on the amount of hair needed for the install. Avoid the use of oils or silicone-based products near the attachment; this can cause the beads to slide. Reapplication is 6 – 8 weeks. This form of extensions can be applied to all hair types and textures.

Sew-in extensions- is a technique used to add hair extensions onto a client’s natural hair to create a fuller, longer look. The traditional sew-ins are achieved by braiding the natural hair down into a flat seamless pattern and using a sewing needle to sew a weft overtop of the braids. Sew-in weaves can have a lot of versatility depending on the hair type and braid pattern. 100% human hair is recommended for this look. It can be cut, curled, straightened, and colored to mimic the most natural hair. You can also style your sew-in up in a bun or ponytail, depending on the braid pattern. Sometimes, it is necessary to have a partial or half sew-in weave where part of the natural hair is left out to blend in with the weft hair. There is also a newer method where you can have a brainless option. This process can take up to 2-3 hours and can last up to 2 1/2 months with proper care. It is recommended for all hair types.