If you are someone that was blessed with thick, voluminous hair, I am officially jealous! I love the hair that I was blessed with but sometimes it’s just a bit too fine/ thin for the styles I am trying to achieve. I LOVE using extensions when I need to add a little bit of oomph to my hair so that’s why I use both semi-permanent and clip-in hair extensions to achieve the look I’m going for. Read further to find out the brands I use, personal recommendations, and more regarding hair extensions…
On a normal day I do not wear hair extensions. I don’t for a few reasons: 1. It’s an expensive thing to keep up with 2. Lack of time and 3. It’s generally not good for your hair. Obviously there are SO many things that you and I do that are considered “not good” for ourselves. This is one of those things (in my opinion) that I can do for special occasions but it’s not necessary for me to do 24/7!
Clip- In vs. Hand Tied
I wear two types of hair extensions: clip in and hand tied. Below you will find a complete comparison of the two. I typically wear the clip in’s if I have a last minute event to go to or maybe for a nicer dinner or something, because they are so easy to clip right in and style. I go to a salon for the hand tied extensions for major events (my wedding, etc.).
COSTS
Clip- In’s
This 100% depends on where you order your extensions from. I highly recommend doing your research because there are SO many places to order from/ so many different types! Personally, after doing some research I decided to order extensions from Barefoot Blonde Hair. They have an amazing selection in all shades and the quality is amazing! All of the extensions are around $214. Though this is not a “cheap” option, you can keep them SO long if you take care of them correctly. I have had mine for over 2 years and counting because I only wear them occasionally. Also, when I do wear them, I only wear 2-3 wefts at a time so there are several that I’ve never even worn (aka great for when I need a replace!).
One of the best parts about ordering from them is their selection process. When placing your first order, you have the option to order a free color-matching kit. The kit allows you to select 3-5 hair shade samples that you can compare to your own hair in order to make sure you are getting the correct color!
By far the nicest part about clip-in’s are the fact that you can take them in and out so there are no fees associated with having to have them moved up as your hair grows out.
Hand-tied
This one is hard to gauge because it depends on your salon + other additional costs associated with the application of the extensions. Typically you are required to pay a fee for the extensions themselves (usually between $300-$500) then another fee to have them applied (prices vary depending on salon). I go to Brittaney Prince in Dallas and she’s awesome!
It is very convenient to not have to put them in every day, but hand-tied extensions can get pricey! You will also need to be aware that as your hair grows out, you will need to get the extensions moved up to your scalp. This also requires a fee.
The Maintenance
Clip-In’s
Clip-in’s don’t require too much maintenance. Depending how much product you use/ how often you wear them, you will probably only need to wash them about 1x a month (maybe even less if you only wear them a couple times a month.
Whenever I first got my clip ins, I took them to my salon to get highlighted to match my real hair. Now, I typically wash them with my normal shampoo and occasionally throw in some purple shampoo to keep them from turning brassy.
The only other thing that’s recommended for clip ins is to keep them brushed and in a safe spot while you are not wearing them. You don’t want them to get tangled and messed up!
Hand-tied
Because these extensions are tied into your hair, you will care for them like you care for your real hair. Wash them, carefully brush them, and try not to pull on them too hard. It is also recommended that you wear your hair in a braid at night to keep your hair together.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many types of hair extensions out there. It takes time and research to determine what kind is best for your hair. Your hair stylist should be able to provide you some direction on what kind might work best with your hair. I love them both for different reasons/ different events. They are definitely an investment, but a great way to add a little something extra for events you might attend/ hairstyles you might not be able to achieve with your real hair.
I am slowly learning to be content with my real hair (thinness and all!) and have started wearing extensions less and less. I’m realizing that extensions are a fun way to add a little something but that we are so blessed with the hair God gave us!
Have you ever had hair extensions? Let me know in the comments!