Introduction
Whether you dream of luscious volume, vibrant colors, or effortless length, real hair clip in extensions offer a transformative solution that can elevate your hair game. This comprehensive guide will empower you with all the essential information you need to understand, choose, and maintain these versatile extensions.
Benefits of Clip In Extensions
- Add Volume and Length: Extend your hair’s volume and length instantly, creating a glamorous, full-bodied look.
- Experiment with Colors: Enhance your natural hair color or try bold hues without the commitment of permanent dyes.
- Protective Styling: Extensions can help protect your natural hair from heat styling and environmental damage.
- Versatile Styling Options: Clip in extensions allow for endless styling possibilities, from elegant updos to playful braids.
- Easy Maintenance: Unlike permanent extensions, clip in extensions can be removed and cared for easily at home.
Types of Real Hair Clip In Extensions
Remy Hair Extensions
- Made from premium human hair with intact cuticles aligned in the same direction.
- Known for their natural appearance, smoothness, and durability.
Non-Remy Hair Extensions
- Made from human hair with cuticles stripped or reversed.
- Less expensive than Remy hair, but can tangle and shed more easily.
Synthetic Hair Extensions
- Made from synthetic fibers, such as nylon or polyester.
- Available in a wide range of colors and textures, but lack the natural look and feel of human hair.
Choosing the Right Extensions
Length
Measure your hair from the base to the desired length to determine the extension size you need.
Color
Match the extension color to your natural shade or experiment with subtle highlights or lowlights.
Texture
Choose extensions that match the natural texture of your hair, whether straight, wavy, or curly.
How to Install Clip In Extensions
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
- Brush your hair thoroughly to remove tangles.
- Section your hair into layers to make it easier to work with.
Step 2: Open the Clips
- Open the clips on the extensions and position them securely close to the roots of your hair.
Step 3: Snap the Clips
- Press the clips onto your hair to securely fasten the extensions.
- Apply even pressure along the entire width of the clip.
Step 4: Blend and Style
- Use a brush or comb to blend the extensions with your natural hair.
- Style your hair as desired, taking care not to pull on the extensions.
Maintenance and Care of Clip In Extensions
Washing
- Wash the extensions every 6-8 wears with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
- Avoid over-washing, as it can strip the natural oils from the hair.
Drying
- Air-dry the extensions or use a low heat setting on a blow dryer.
- Do not use a curling iron or straightening iron directly on the clips.
Storage
- Store the extensions in a dry, cool place when not in use.
- Avoid exposure to excessive heat or sunlight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the Wrong Color or Texture: Extensions that mismatch your natural hair can create an unnatural appearance.
- Overwhelming Your Head with Extensions: Adding too many extensions can make your hair look bulky and unnatural.
- Installing Extensions Too Tightly: This can cause damage to your natural hair and discomfort.
- Sleeping with Extensions In: Friction from pillowcases can damage the extensions and tangles your hair.
- Using Heat on the Clips: Heat can damage the clips and loosen their grip.
FAQs
Q: How long do clip in extensions last?
A: Human hair clip in extensions can last up to 6-12 months with proper care, while synthetic extensions last 3-6 months.
Q: Can I dye clip in extensions?
A: Remy hair extensions can be dyed to match your hair color, but Non-Remy and synthetic extensions may not hold color well.
Q: How much do clip in extensions cost?
A: The price of clip in extensions varies depending on the quality, length, and amount of hair used. Expect to pay between $100-$500 for a set of human hair extensions.
Q: Can I wear clip in extensions every day?
A: While clip in extensions are easy to remove and reapply, it’s not recommended to wear them daily for more than 10 hours at a time to avoid straining your natural hair.
Q: Can I swim with clip in extensions?
A: It’s best to avoid swimming with clip in extensions, as chlorine and saltwater can damage the hair.
Creative Applications for Clip In Extensions
Transformative Accessories
- Hair Bows: Attach a clip in extension to a hair bow to create a statement accessory that adds volume and glamour.
- Ponytail Extensions: Create a stunning ponytail by clipping in an extension above your own ponytail.
Protective Styles
- Braid Extensions: Braid the extension into your natural hair to protect it from friction and breakage.
- Bun Extensions: Create a voluminous bun by wrapping an extension around your own bun and securing it with bobby pins.
Sensory Enhancement
- Weighted Extensions: Add weight to your hair with extensions to combat sensory overload or provide a calming effect.
- Textured Extensions: Select extensions with a different texture from your natural hair to create a calming or stimulating sensory experience.