TOP 10 MOST POPULAR TYPES OF HAIR EXTENSIONS

If you wish to increase the volume and length of your hair, the best and most viable option is to go for hair extensions. But what are the popular kinds of hair extensions nowadays? It is important to keep up with the trends and remain updated so you have a complete knowledge of what might be best suited for you. To help you with that, we have gathered a list of the most popular hair extensions.

Generally speaking, hair extensions are of two kinds. The first one is the strand-by-strand method which includes the bonded, micro links, and knotting methods of hair extension. The next is the Wefted panels which includes the taped in, clipped in, flipped in, sewed in and glued in methods.  Below is a list of the top 10 most popular types of hair extensions we have compiled.

1.      Microbead Hair Extensions

Otherwise known as I-Tip or I-Link, microbead extensions use tiny beads to attach extensions to the natural hair. The beads are then crimped down to hold the hair in place after the bead is threaded onto the hair near the scalp area. Microbead extensions require touch ups, but can last from six months up to one year depending on the extension quality and care routine.  They have some of the same durability benefits that fusion extensions offer, without needing glue or heat to attach them.

• Flat-Tip Hair Extensions

A hybrid method, Flat-Tip extensions, combine the best of both worlds between the tape-in and microbead methods. Flat-Tip extensions install in much the same way that an I-Tip does, meaning you’ll get 360 degree movement. Flat-Tip extensions generally lay flatter against the head and cover more overall surface area.

• Cold-Fusion Hair Extensions

This method uses sections of hair pulled through a cylinder and shut with plies. The extensions are individual strands and so the hair looks more natural. It is also reusable. Micro bead I-Tip hair extensions are attached to the hair with the cold fusion method. The process includes the use of metal beads being clamped around your hair with pliers. These beads tighten around the hair with added locks of hair and increases the volume.

4.      Hot Fusion Hair Extensions

While this method has certainly evolved over time, hot fusion extensions use small keratin bonds that are melted, shaped, and reformed around the hair to create a sturdy, long-lasting connection.  This includes the keratin-tipped hair extensions also called the U-tips. These require the heat gun to melt the keratin bond to stick to your hair.  A distinct benefit is that, while they are harder to remove, they also tend to stay better than other methods. Further, not all fusion extensions actually use glue, despite the commonly synonymous term “glue-in”.

• Weft Hair Extensions:

Hair attached at one end. They come in different types: machine made, hand-tied or injection molded. They are applied to the hair after being measured and cut into sections. Tape, glue, in-braiding and hand tied hair extensions could also be done to attach the wefts to the hair.  Hand tied hair extensions are increasing in popularity.   One key advantage of weft extensions is shorter installation time.

• Tape-in Hair Extensions:

These are coated wefts and panels with tapes attached on either sides. The hair of the client is stuck between to panels to this tape. This method of application is known to be one of the fastest methods, however, also possibly the most damaging to the hair.

• Glue-in Hair Extensions:

These are shorter-term. The glue is applied to a weft and attached to the hair but they only stay there for a shorter time.  This is one of the less expensive methods and can be removed with an oil-based solvent.

• Sew-in Hair Extensions:

Also known as weave extensions are made for naturally voluminous hair. The hair is first braided and then the needle and threads are passed through the braid for it to be attached to the wefts.

• Clip-In Hair Extensions:

These are temporary hair extensions whereby clips are used to attach the wefts to the natural hair. It’s an option for people who simply want to try out the hair extensions instead of using them for an extended period.  Clip-in hair extensions are known as the DIY option. Since you have to install them every time you want to wear them, Clip-in hair extensions will require the most amount of time and work in the long run if you plan to use them regularly.

1. Hair Pieces:

These are the like wigs which are worn over the head and cover the hair entirely. Hair pieces, however, come for different purposes such as a ponytail or a bun and it could be externally applied to a specific area instead of a full-cover.

These are the top 10 most popular types of hair extensions. The best method for you is the one that’s right for your hair texture, hair health, lifestyle and budget.   At Unicorn Hair Queen  we recommend the best option based on what is right for you.  There are many methods that can be mixed and matched and with proper care and done correctly by an expert extensions specialist, your hair extensions should help with hair growth and overall health, not impede it.  We hope you understand the differences between them and can choose your kind easily!