Weave hair extensions are applied by braiding the natural hair into cornrows first, then using a needle and thread to sew the weave into the braid or cornrow. Weave hair extensions are predominantly used for people with thicker hair because of the way they are applied. Generally speaking, the weave application is a very long process (usually several hours.) The tight application method often puts a strain on the scalp and can feel very heavy or uncomfortable, which is also why it doesn’t work well with thin or lighter hair.

This method is applied by an experienced hairdresser, as it is a very technical and difficult application that needs to be sewn in by a professional. Sew-ins also come in wig form, which is sewn into cornrows the same way, however, the hair comes in one piece as opposed to separate wefts. This type of hair extension is popular because it’s the most permanent and seamless, as the hair is literally sewn into your own hair and cannot come off.

TREATMENT

If you have a weave extensions, you need to moisturize the scalp, the nape and edges of the hair at least once a week and ensure you are using deep conditioning products. Another popular recommendation for people with weaves is to wash the hair with a special protein product to minimize damage and weakening of the hair. When it comes to styling, the same rules apply for real hair vs. synthetic hair. Usually weaves come in real hair because of how long they are kept in and it human hair is more easy and effortless to maintain.

It is professionally recommended to remove the weave/ sew in hair extensions every 6-8 weeks, especially if you are trying to grow your own hair. The maximum amount of time you should have a full weave in your hair is 4 months as it will affect your natural hair's growth.

3. Fusion & Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions

Fusion hair extensions (also known as bonding or pre-bonded hair extensions) are fused to your natural hair using different adhesives such as glue. Applying pre-bonded hair extensions take approximately 3-4 hours to apply and are also applied by a professional hairdresser with experience. Fusion extensions might not be suitable for all clients as this type of application is very damaging to your natural hair, so your hairdresser may even advise against this method. The application involves a machine that looks like a hot glue gun, which essentially glues a strand of hair extension to individual strands of the natural hair, this makes it look more seamless and natural and you're able to effortlessly and freely style the hair in a up or down style. Another type of application for pre-bonded hair extensions uses a heat clamp to melt the glue to the natural hair.

Fusion/pre-ponded hair extensions application is managed and treated the same way as your real hair. You can use the same products you would normally use, however, the extensions need re-positioning every 2–3 months as the natural hair grows. Additionally, due to the numerous chemicals in the glue, this method can cause hair loss, breakage, and scalp irritation, so we're glad you're here reading on all the different types of hair extensions before making any decisions.

They are considered semi-permanent as they stay in your hair for up to 4 months. However, like all other types of hair extensions, this varies based on your own hair type.

4. Tape-In Hair Extensions

Tape in hair extensions are exactly what the name describes them to be. Tape in hair extensions are pre-taped and then taped/glued together on both sides of your own hair. Typically a professional hairdresser would apply tape-ins for you because you need to align them with the roots and they are applied with a heated tool that heats up and seals the glue onto your natural hair. Additionally, you would need to have them removed with hair glue remover and then reinstalled. Naturally, when you apply heat to your roots and any adhesive product such as tape or glue, this can damage your hair. This process usually takes approximately 40 minutes – 1 hour to apply and if the extensions are in good condition, they can be re-used, the only thing you need to change is the glue at the top.

TREATMENT

With tape in hair extensions, you have to be very careful when using conditioners or hair products because this can cause the tape to come loose or slip off. This is a very common issue with tape-ins, where the hair simply slides off. Because of this, hairdressers usually recommend you use special shampoo or conditioner and styling products that are less harsh and not as oily to ensure the glue continues to stick to your hair. Try using a dry shampoo to freshen your hair up over time. You can style them any way you want because of the way they're applied it allows you to style your hair up or down.

HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?

Tape-ins are considered semi-permanent. Typically, they last 4 – 8 weeks before you need to remove and re-apply them. Just like any other hair, however, it depends on how well you take care of them and on how quickly your hair grows.

5. Microlink Hair Extensions

Micro-link hair extensions are also known as micro bead hair extensions or micro loop hair extensions. They are applied by attaching tiny wefts of hair to small sections of the natural hair with a small silicone-lined bead. Then, a special tool is used to secure the bead to the hair and tightened to hold it in place. Although this method does not use heat or glue, if not installed correctly by a professional then micro-link hair extensions can be damaging on the hair. The bead may be tightened too much, causing pressure and pulling at the roots, and if not professionally removed properly , the hair can be pulled out. This method takes approximately 2 – 4 hours to apply.

TREATMENT

You can wash them the same way you would your natural hair and use the same styling products. Similar to fusion hair extensions, microlink hair extensions/pre bonded hair extensions need to be re-positioned every 2 – 3 months as the natural hair grows and the microbeads move away from the scalp. 

HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?

Microlink hair extensions are considered semi-permanent and they generally last up to 4 months.

6. Wigs & Hair Pieces

Wigs and hair pieces come in different forms and are applied on the top of your natural hair.  There are quite a handful of different types of wigs and hair peices such as 'lace front wigs' , 'non lace wigs' 360 lace wigs, full lace wigs and more. Wigs act as a replacement for your own hair and are meant to cover your entire head. Wigs can be used for many reasons such as hair loss, balding, or simply to change up your look. We have both Synthetic wigs and Human Hair Wigs.

Hair pieces are a little different and often come in the shape of a bun, ponytail, or hair tie so you can just place it on top of your own hair. Hair pieces can be used if a specific area of your head is thinning and you need to place hair on top of this section, or they can simply be used to create a different hairstyle, such as a super long, full ponytail with just one piece to add thickness.

TREATMENT

Wigs and hair pieces require different wash methods depending on if you want to go for a human wig or a synthetic wig. Human wigs can be maintained just like your natural hair where as synthetic hair wigs require you to use a lower temperate of water and maintained by using a wide tooth comb.

HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?

It depends on whether they are real or synthetic and once again the way you take care of them determines their lifespan as well. Typically, human hair can last for up to one year if you take good care of them. Synthetic wigs can last anywhere from 1-3 months.

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