If you’re diving into the world of hair extensions for the first time, it is likely that you’re a bit overwhelmed by all of the lingo. Tape-ins, weaves, micro-link, fusion, pre-bonded… what does it all mean and how can you pick the best type of hair extensions for you? The great thing about hair extensions, however, is that there are so many different types to try in order to find the best fit for you! That being said, if you want to skip the testing phase and jump immediately to the best fit for you, MyCuts is here with all of the information you need.
Clip-In Hair Extensions
The first type of hair extensions that we’ll be talking about are clip-in hair extensions, also known as clip-in wefts. These extensions come in strands of contoured pieces and are attached at the base with either silicone or fabric. One of the best things about clip-in hair extensions is that they come attached to the base and ready to use! To use them, all you have to do is clip the pieces to your natural hair. Each individual clip snaps open and closes easily.
If you’re looking for the least permanent type of hair extensions available, clip-in hair extensions are the way to go. This is because they can be quickly removed and put back in whenever you feel like it. Clip-ins typically take between five and fifteen minutes to apply at home. Clip-in extensions are also the least damaging since they don’t involve any heat, pressure, or chemicals to apply. This is one of the many reasons that this type of hair extension is so wildly popular.
Tape-In Hair Extensions
Much like clip-in hair extensions, tape-in hair extensions are exactly what they sound like- extensions that are pre-taped before being taped or glued together on either side of your own hair. Hairstylists will typically apply tape-in hair extensions due to the fact that they need to be aligned with your roots, as well as the fact that they are applied with a heated tool that warms up the glue.
Tape-in hair extensions are more permanent than clip-ins because you would need to have them removed with a glue remover if you wanted to take them out. It should also be noted that tape-in hair extensions can be a bit more damaging to your hair because they are applied to your roots with an adhesive. The application process typically takes between forty minutes and one hour.
Sew-In Hair Extensions/Weaves
Sew-in hair extensions, also known as weaves, are applied by braiding the natural hair into cornrows before using a needle and thread to sew the extensions themselves into the braid or cornrow. Weave hair extensions tend to be a popular choice for people with thicker hair because of the way they are applied. It should be noted that the application process for sew-in hair extensions is a pretty long one lasting several hours. This type of hair extension can also be a bit more uncomfortable due to the strain on the scalp. This is yet another reason that they are typically recommended for those with thicker hair, not those with thinner or lighter hair.
Like tape-in hair extensions, sew-in hair extensions are applied by experienced hairstylists as it is a very technical process involving a lot of skill and attention to detail. Sew-in extensions are by far the most popular type of hair extension due to the fact that they are the most permanent and seamless since the extensions are sewn directly into your own hair and won’t come off.
Fusion and Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions
Fusion hair extensions, also known as pre-bonded hair extensions, are fused to the natural hair with the use of an adhesive such as glue. When applying fusion hair extensions, a machine resembling a hot glue gun is used to glue the extensions to individual strands of natural hair. The process of applying fusion hair extensions takes approximately three to four hours and, again, requires the expertise of an experienced hairstylist. It should be noted that this type of hair extension may not be suitable for everyone because the process can be very damaging to hair. In fact, your hairstylist may even advise against this method.
Micro-Link Hair Extensions
Finally, the last type of hair extensions that you should know about is micro-line hair extensions. This type of hair extension is also popularly referred to as micro bead hair extensions and is applied by attaching small wefts of hair to small sections of natural hair with a tiny silicone-lined bead. After this is done, a special tool is used to secure the bead to the hair, tightening it to hold it in place. While this form of hair extension is not typically known to be damaging, hair damage can be caused in the event that the bead is tightened too much. This method takes between two and four hours to apply.
Hair Salon Appointments Made Easy With MyCuts!
Now that you are well-informed about the various types of hair extensions you can choose from, it’s likely that you’re excited to get some of your own! With so many of these types of hair extensions involving the expertise of a talented hairstylist, that means that a trip to the hair salon is probably required. Unfortunately, booking with your hairstylist isn’t always easy: schedules get booked up, and remembering when your appointment is once booked can be a hassle. But no worries! MyCuts is here to help!
With software like MyCuts, the entire hair salon experience is easier for hair salons and their customers alike. With MyCuts, your local hair salon can offer you a convenient way to schedule and monitor your hair appointments right from your mobile device!
MyCuts is also great for hairstylists as it simplifies the process of managing their list of clients. With helpful features like client management, appointment reminders, and scheduling, keeping regular appointments with your hairstylist has never been easier. Want to see what MyCuts can offer you? Check out our demo!
