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There’s no getting around the fact that growing out your hair takes time. So if you’re thinking about getting extensions to cheat the look of longer hair, you no doubt have some questions: what are the different types of hair extensions? Do they always cause damage? And how much do the best hair extensions cost?
Obviously, the biggest draw of adding these to your natural hair is that they boost the appearance of both length and thickness – as many Love Island contestants well know.
They also give you the chance to experiment with your hair far more easily – they’re one way that celebrities likeKim Kardashiancan change up their look so frequently and suddenly step out with a mane that mermaids would envy.
But if you’re going to do it, you have to do it right. "It’s always a must that you have extensions fitted by a professional," Carl Bembridge, celebrity hairstylist whose clients includeMolly-Mae HagueandJac Jossa, tells OK!. "That’s not the case with clip-in extensions, but for the other, more semi-permanent extensions, it’s a must."
What are the different types of hair extensions?
Hair extensions can be synthetic or human hair, the latter of which will look the most natural, and there are a few different types:
Clip-in extensions – secured using clips
Tape extensions – secured using tape
Micro ring extensions – secured using a small loop
Bonded extensions – fused to your hair
"Clip-ins are great for fullness and length and are very easy to put in and take out," Carl explains. "Tapes are lightweight, but again, they need to be professionally put in and checked on. Those are my two favourite types of extensions.
"Recently I have been using a brand of clip-ins called Razzl Dazzl (@razzldazzlhair), the hair is beautiful," he adds. "I’ve really been loving using it on my clients lately for both short and long styles to add length, thickness, and even colour."
Which hair extensions last the longest?
"Bonded extensions can last the longest, between three and five months if they are professionally maintained every six weeks," Carl explains. "Clip-ins, on the other hand, are temporary, so you put them in for the day or night then take them out when finished with the look."
He adds: "Tapes will last six to eight weeks, while micro ring extensions will last between two and three months – although with a maintenance appointment they can be stretched out to last even longer."
Do hair extensions damage hair? How can you avoid this?
There is a risk of hair damage with hair extensions, but it’s more about how they’re fitted instead of the actual wearing of them – which is why it’s so important to always have them fitted by a professional.
"As long as too much weight isn’t put onto little hair and the weight is professionally distributed [you should avoid damage]," Carl explains. "Also, extensions shouldn’t be put too close to the scalp. If they’re fitted too tight to the root, this can cause tension and damage the hair, and may even result in traction alopecia."
An expert who knows exactly what they’re doing will be able to keep tension levels as low as possible. Your hairdresser will also be able to answer any specific questions you have about extensions, so that you can work out which ones best suit you and your lifestyle before taking the plunge.
How much do hair extensions cost?
Good clip-in extensions can range from anything between £40 for a single weft to a couple of hundred pounds (more hair = more money). A quick glance at Treatwellherewill tell you that an extensions appointment can set you back anything from £100 to in excess of £500.
The price will depend on the type of extensions, how much hair you’re getting, whether you have to purchase the hair beforehand, and the salon you visit – so it’s important to do your homework and be sure you visit somebody whose work you’ll love.
For now, we’ve rounded up a few of the best clip-in hair extensions, which will give you the option of experimenting with longer, thicker hair without committing just yet. Then when you’re ready for something longer-lasting, be sure to call your hairdresser…
Beauty Works Clip-In Extensions, from £47.99 here
Made with 100% Remy (unprocessed) human hair, Beauty Works is one of the go-to brands for extensions. Their clip-ins come in a huge variety of lengths, thicknesses and colours, so you’re almost guaranteed to find something that suits you.
Razzl Dazzl Clip In Extensions, from £85 here
As recommended by our celebrity hairdresser extraordinaire Carl, Razzl Dazzl also offers 100% Remy human hair extensions in a variety of weights and colours.
Hair Choice Pony Piece Clip In, £20 here
A clip in pony is a seriously easy – if not the easiest – way to create a glam, long-haired look. This piece has previously been spotted on Khloé Kardashian in blonde and it's a bargain to boot.
Alexa, play Swish Swish by Katy Perry…
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