5 Essential Questions to Ask Before Buying Hair Extensions: Your Ultimate Guide

Need to add length and volume to your hair? Or simply glam up your hairstyle? All you need is Hair Extensions. You can use hair extensions whether you want to make a temporary change to your style or a more permanent change. You just need to choose the right type of hair extension which works best for you. The market has many options nowadays, so it is understandable to become overwhelmed by that. But fear not; just know the right questions to ask before buying any hair extension. Why do you need to the right questions? Because asking the right questions will help you make a well-informed decision and avoid making costly mistakes with your purchase. So, here are the five most important questions to ask before you buy a hair extension.

1.      What is the hair extension made of; human hair or synthetic hair?

It is important to know which hair extension is right for you because it will impact not only your look but also the feel and durability. Hair extensions are either made of real human hair or synthetic fibers.

Human hair extensions

Just as the name indicates, they are made from real human hair. These extensions are the most realistic-looking; they feel and look as natural as your own hair. You can easily style and dye them, but keep in mind that this type of hair extension is expensive.

Synthetic hair extensions

Synthetic hair extensions are made of synthetic materials, such as fibers. They are quite affordable, but they are not as realistic-looking as natural hair. They are most often shinier or plastic-like in appearance. You cannot use heat to style them, and they do not react well to dye.

Tips: Choosing between human hair extensions and synthetic hair extensions depends on your reasons for buying them. If you want a natural finish and are looking for a versatile look, you can choose human hair extensions because they will be worth the cost. But if you need extensions for short or one-time events, then choosing synthetic hair extensions is more sensible and budget-friendly.

2.      Which type of hair extension do you need?

Another important question is which type of hair extension meets your needs. There are many different types of hair extensions, each catering to various preferences, lifestyles, and budgets. Let’s look at some of the most common types of hair extensions.

Tape-in extension

As the name indicates, adhesive tape taps these hair extensions into your natural hair. These are known to be semi-permanent and last 4-8 weeks before they need reapplication. You will need to go to a professional to have them installed or removed as they are done using hot tools. Since these tape-ins are aligned with your roots, applying heat to your roots could damage your hair, and the extensions can damage your natural hair. You can use hair care products, but you need to be cautious to not loosen the tape, as they tend to simply fall off. You can use products that are soft and less oily or greasy. You can style them however you want. Just be cautious of the roots and tape-ins.

Clip-in extension

These are temporary extensions which you can easily install and remove. These are ideal for occasional or one-time event use. They are low maintenance and do not damage your hair. Clip-in extensions are strands of curved pieces joined at the base with silicone or fabric and have clips attached. All you need to do is clip them on your natural hair. You can clean them after 15-20 wears or more frequently if you notice any build-up. You can use all the hair products you use on your natural hair and style them as well, preferably with low heat.

Sew-in (Weave) extension

Sew-in extensions are known to be best suited for thick hair. They are installed by sewing them into the braids of natural hair. Installing these extensions takes many hours, and you must go to a professional. These are not suitable for thin or lighter hair. These extensions are most durable and long-lasting as they are sewn into your natural hair. You can use deep conditioning products on these extensions and moisturise your scalp, hair nape, and hair edges at least once a week. It is recommended to have them for a maximum of four months or remove them every 6 to 8 weeks to let your natural hair grow properly.

Fusion or bond extension

They last up to 4 months and are known to be long-lasting hair extensions bonded to your natural hair. You will need to go to a professional to have them installed. These hair extensions are bonded to your natural hair using adhesives like glue. It is to be noted that these hair extensions can damage your natural hair as they are installed using a material similar to a hot glue gun or melting the glue on natural hair using heat clamps. And they need to be repositioned every two to three months. The care and management of these extensions are the same as your natural hair.

Micro-link hair extension

These usually last up to four months and are considered semi-permanent hair extensions. Micro-link or micro-bead extensions are installed using a tiny silicone-lined bead to secure hair weaves to small pieces of natural hair. These beads are then fastened to the hair with a specialised tool to keep it in one place. Remember that microbeads can harm your hair if they are not installed properly, so you need to go to a professional. You can wash and style them like you do with your natural hair. These extensions require refastening as when the natural hair grows, the micro-beads loosen from their position, so you need to get them refastened every two to three months.

3.      How to match color and texture to your natural hair?

You need a seamless, natural look, not a mismatched, unnatural one and for that you need to know how to match your natural hair color and texture with the hair extensions.

Color matching

You can use color-matching services or sample kits to find your shade.

Tip: If unsure, go for a darker shade because it blends better than lighter shades.

Texture matching

Human hair extensions are available in different textures, so you must consider your natural hair texture and find your perfect match.

4.      Are your chosen extensions high or low maintenance?

Different hair extensions require different levels of care, so always ask about the maintenance routine before you buy one.

1. Do they require regular brushing detangling?
2. How many times you can wear it before they need to be washed?
3. Are they heat-styling friendly?

Tips:

• Use a wide-tooth comb, which is specially designed for extensions.
• Avoid over-washing your extensions. Use sulfate shampoo and conditioners.
• Always use heat protectant spray before styling; preferably, use low heat to style your extensions.
• Store your extensions properly in a clean and dry place if they are removable.

5.      Which extension is suitable for your budget?

Always know your budget and choose your extension based not only on its price but also on its durability and maintenance routine. There are budget-friendly options as well as expensive options; it simply depends on your need.

Buying hair extensions is always an exciting experience that transforms your look. To ensure you make a well-informed choice, always ask the abovementioned questions. Take your time to look and research all the available options and choose which works best for you. After all, your hair deserves the best!