Hair Extensions Ultimate In-Depth Guide! Everything You Need To Know [UPDATED 2022]

Some would say that it’s really complicated to understand hair extensions because there are too many different types of extensions with a wide range of different prices. Which hair extensions are the best? Which hair extensions are the safest? How much do hair extensions cost? What extensions are the easiest? Where to buy hair extensions in America? There are so many questions on this subject, that you could easily feel overwhelmed. 

So, do you think hair extensions are complicated? If so, you’re at the right place. As it turns out, hair extensions aren’t a complicated subject at all. In this blog post, we’re going to explain to you everything you need to know about hair extensions. Keep in mind that you can always email us with your questions as well!  

Hair extensions have been loved by both men and women for a long time. In this modern era, we have tons of different kinds of hair extensions and it can be a bit complicated to get the hang of them sometimes. To help you understand hair extensions better, we have compiled a guide that will instantly make you a hair extension pro!

We will answer all the frequently asked questions about hair extensions and how to use them properly. From all the basics to all the advanced tips & tricks and facts about hair extensions, you will find everything here.

What are hair extensions?

If you concentrate on the word “Hair Extensions”, the word is pretty self-explanatory. Hair extensions are used to extend the hair, or used as an extension of the real hair.

With the help of hair extensions, you can instantly change the length, volume, and the general feel of your hair without permanently altering your natural locks.

If you are a fashion enthusiast and love changing the appearance of your hair in accordance with the latest trends of the year, then hair extensions are the heaven-sent products that you need to have in your life.

Who should wear hair extensions?

Anybody can wear hair extensions. There is a misconception that hair extensions are for bald people, specifically women, or the ones with major hair loss issues. The truth is, literally anyone and everyone can use hair extensions to modify their look according to their preferences. In fact, according our research, around 34% of people wear hair extensions as a part of their everyday beauty routines to feel confident and put a finishing touch to their look. Whether you’re a man, woman, or any other gender, hair extensions can be used to get longer & fuller hair safely.

In short: hair extensions are for everybody, and they are the best way of adding length and volume to your hairstyle in a safe, quick, and discreet way.

From your graduation to high school prom to your wedding day, or even just a casual night out with your friends, you can rely on hair extensions to add extra glam points to your overall look without damaging or changing the natural state of your hair. In short, wearing hair extensions is the best way to sport new and trendy hair looks without committing to it for a long period of time.

Is it weird to wear hair extensions?

No, wearing hair extensions is not weird. There’s nothing strange or bizarre about wearing hair extensions. This practice has been normalized since the ancient Egyptian times, when men and women both wore wigs and hair extensions to change their hairstyles and protect their natural hair. In the current era, a lot of people have adapted to wearing hair extensions because of how convenient and safe they are.

Thankfully, times have changed and more people are coming around to the idea of hair extensions as a common accessory.

Wearing hair extensions is a quick, easy, clean and painless method of transforming your entire look.

Can Hair Extensions Fall Out?

Technically, yes hair extensions could fall out. This is possible because the hair extensions might be heavier than your own hair. However, this embarrassing situation can be prevented if you install your hair extensions correctly, following all the steps and tips mentioned on our blog.

Yes. Hair extensions can fall out. However, the only time extensions will fall out is if they have been installed incorrectly or been worn past the maximum time recommended.

Here are a few ways to make sure you do not have to go through this embarrassing situation.

• Make sure to section off your hair properly and only add one row of hair extensions in one section of your hair. Too many hair extensions layered over each other can weigh them down easily and cause them to fall out.
• Secure the roots of the extensions properly. Whether you have clip-in hair extensions, tape in extensions, or sew in extensions, make sure they are attached securely and they will not loosen up. Loosely or carelessly attached hair extensions can detach easily.
• If you are opting for micro link hair extensions or fusion bonded hair extensions, get them professionally installed by a certified hair stylist.
• Do not keep the temporary hair extensions (clip-ins, invisible wire extensions, and ponytails) in for a long period of time. Prolonged wear time can loosen up the hair extensions and cause them to fall out at any time.

How to properly conceal my hair extensions?

There are quite a lot of installation methods available for hair extensions that you can choose from. Based on the method of installation, you will have to make sure to conceal your hair extensions properly. Wear your extensions in layers so they blend with your natural hair easily.  Ask your stylist to leave 3 inches of hair before attaching your hair extensions. Opt for hairstyles that are best suited for hair extensions so they don’t peek through your hairstyle and cause embarrassment. Take a hand mirror and check the back of your head in your vanity mirror for any bonds coming out of your hairstyle.

The best way to avoid your hair extensions from showing is to make sure that you are starting out with the right amount of natural hair to be able to cover the extension.

At USA Hair you can get your hands on hair extensions that have concealed bonds which blends with your natural hair easily.

What damage can hair extensions cause to my hair?

The internet has a lot of horror stories related to hair loss caused by hair extensions, but if you investigate a little, you will understand that those people chose the wrong kind of hair extensions for their hair type. It is quite necessary to consult your stylist before you get your hair extensions installed. People with thin and breakage prone hair should avoid fusion or sew-in hair extensions as they might take a toll on your already weak hair strands. On the other hand, people have reported that hair extensions have helped them have better hair growth. However, there is no scientific explanation to back this claim up. Hair extensions protect your hair form a lot of hair styling products and environment which protects your hair and can allow it the time to grow. It is a harmless way of changing your hairstyle without causing any permanent damage if done in the right way.

Once in a while you will hear horror stories of people whose hair has been damaged by extensions, but when you take a deeper look into to the facts of the case, there are usually other things that went wrong rather than the extension of themselves.

Will hair extensions thin out or stop my hair growth?

No, hair extensions do not have any impact on your hair growth, they do not accelerate or slow down your hair growth. They also do not thin out your hair at all if your hair is already not genetically thin. Hair extensions are just a temporary or semi-permanent way to alter your hairstyle and transform your overall look instantly.

In conclusion, your hair will not get thin from wearing extensions. 

How long do hair extensions last?

The longevity of hair extensions will depend on many factors such as the quality, the type, and how well you maintain them.

Broadly speaking, clip in extensions can last anywhere from 3 months to 8 months, but many of our customers reported using their clip ins for over a year! As for other types of hair extensions (tape ins, fusion, micro loop, sew-ins), the extensions will last anywhere from 4 weeks to 12 weeks.

Clip-ins extensions last from 3 months to 8 months depending on how well you maintain them and how often you wear them. As for the extensions that are installed by hairdressers (tape ins, fusion, micro loop, sew-ins), the extensions will last from 4 weeks to 12 weeks.

Where can I buy hair extensions?

The best place to buy affordable hair extensions online is USA Hair. A a national hair extensions & wigs brands, many of our customers are big hair salons, hair shops, and celebrities. Over the years, we’ve noticed that many of our fans complained that they couldn’t get their hands on our products unless they reside in a big city. In other words, residents of cities located outside of major ones couldn’t find our hair extensions or wigs unless they’d drive all the way to downtown.

This is because the hair extension industry is a niche market.

The demand in small cities isn’t high enough for a store to carry hair extensions profitably.

We’ve addressed this problem by offering our quality hair extensions online at affordable prices, everywhere in America! We were met with instant success because contrary to other hair extension stores, we carry a wide range of hair extensions colors, lengths, qualities, thicknesses, and types. USA Hair is cheaper than other hair extensions stores, offers great high-quality hairpieces, and all orders ship for free everywhere in America! 

Returns are also accepted hassle-free for a full courteous refund.

We even pay for your return so you literally have nothing to lose by choosing us.

Our hair extensions are the most affordable ones in North America!

Since all orders ship quickly from America, you can expect to receive your order between 1 to 5 days. Orders are traceable online 24/7, there’s no duty fees, and orders always ship for free.

Why should I wear hair extensions?

Hair extensions are heaven sent hair styling products that you can wear for various reasons like,

For Volume

Wearing hair extensions adds an instant volume and depth to your hair. The more hair you add to your scalp the more voluminous your hair will look. It also makes your hair look heavier and healthier in an instant. With the help of hair extensions, you can make your ponytails, braids and other hairstyles ice as thick as your natural hair. How cool is that!

For Length

We all know that hair extension is mainly used to adding length to your locks. If you have short hair and want to change the length of your hair overnight, then hair extensions are the solution to your problem. There are so many lengths available in the market that you can get to suit your preferences.

For Color

Changing color every now and then can deeply damage your hair but you can always use different colored hair extensions to change the look of your hair.

For Bangs

Don’t have bangs? Do not worry! You can add instant bangs to your hair without using any scissors with the help of hair extensions. There are so many different kinds of hair extensions available in the shape of bangs that you can directly attach to the crown of your head, and voila, you have bangs!

For Buns & Ponytails

With the help of hair extensions, you can also accentuate your ponytails and add a lot of volumes instantly. USA Hair sells ponytail hair extensions that are especially there to help you have a sleek, voluminous, and healthier looking ponytail or top knot.

How do different hair extensions work?

As we mentioned earlier, hair extensions are a temporary or semi-permanent way to add length, volume, and beauty to your hair. There are many ways that hair extensions work, like sewing it in your hair to add a semi-permanent change in your hair.

For more temporary use like adding volume and length to your hair for a short period of time, you can use clip in hair extensions that you can easily install at home without the help of a stylist. They will blend with your natural hair and alter the look of your hair instantly. Once you are done with the occasion you have worn the clip in hair extensions for, you can take them off and store it for later use.

The semi-permanent hair extensions are installed professionally using professional hair extension tools that are available at the salons. These hair extensions work like your natural hair every day and can be washed with proper care and hair care products. To know more about the different kinds of hair extensions available in the market, just keep on reading!

There are 2 types of hair extensions.

Temporary hair extensions, which are clip in extensions, invisible wire extensions, and ponytails extensions. These are the kind of hair extensions that out can put on and remove whenever you want with ease. You can install & remove these temporary extensions from the comfort of your home safely, easily, and quickly. No hairstylists needed!

The second type of hair extensions is permanent extensions which are tape ins, fusion extensions, micro loops, nano-rings, and sew ins. These hair extensions are to be installed by a hairdresser. The permanent hair extensions are supposed to stay in your hair for a longer period of time. They are installed and removed with the help of a professional hair stylist. These kinds of hair extensions are perfect for people who are familiar with hair extensions and want to alter their look for a prolonged time period.

Clip-In Extensions

If you have never tried hair extensions, then clip-ins are the best option for you. They are easy to install and take off and can be bought at a very reasonable price rate. Clip-in hair extensions allow you to experience the feel of hair extensions before you jump on to the permanent methods of hair extensions. They are available in synthetic hair, real human hair, and premium remy hair to suit your preference and budget.

You can order these hair extensions online from a trusted website like USAhair.com or buy them through a reputed salon that sells high quality hair extensions. You simply have to section off your hair and attach the clip-in extensions to your hair using the comb on the weft. They are hassle-free and adds a great volume and length to your hair. You can also get clip-in bangs to get an instant fringe without having a trip to your hair stylist.

Clip-in hair extensions are ideal for instant hair transformations, whether you are on the go or like to tweak up your look for work every day. The best part is that you don’t have to go through lengthy procedures just to sport some extra length and volume in your hair.

Other popular & trendy temporary hair extensions methods are invisible wire hair extensions and ponytail hair extensions.

Tape-In Extensions

The tape-in hair extensions are usually made up of natural hair with a strong adhesive at the start of the weft. With the help of this sticky tape, you can attach the hair extensions on the hair using proper tools. This hair extension is ideal for people with finer hair as they do not tug on the roots of the hair extensions like the sew in ones. The evenly distributed weight ensures no irritation on the scalp and no pulling which is perfect for people with thin or weaker hair.

The process of installing tape-in hair extensions is quite pricey and takes around half an hour or so to get done. The flat surface area or the tape makes sure there are no sharp edges sticking out of your hairstyle. With tape-in hair extensions, you can have the sleekest hairstyles possible.

However, these hair extensions are not suitable for you if you have the kind of lifestyle that includes a lot of sweating as it might weaken the adhesive and cause the extensions to fall out. Make sure to keep your hair oil and sweat free if you want your tape-in hair extensions to last longer.

Micro Loop Extensions

Micro-loop or micro-ring hair extensions are long term hair styling solution for people who love to sport different hairstyles effortlessly while adding length, color, or volume to their natural hair. The micro-loop hair extensions have tiny rings on the tip of each hair strand that is attached to the hair using pliers. These hair extensions are long lasting and made up of premium quality natural hair.

The only drawback to this kind of hair extensions is that they can slip and break your natural hair along with it if pulled a lot.

Fusion hair extensions

Fusion hair extensions, also known as keratin bond hair extensions and keratin pre-tipped hair extensions are the most amazing and reliable hair extensions available. This is a permanent hair extension method that requires keratin adhesive bonds to be fused with the natural hair for longer lasting results. With these hair extensions, you can change the length, volume, and color of your hair extensions for several months if taken care of properly. Fusion hair extensions are installed strand by strand with the help of electric fusion connector. It does not cause any permanent damage if done correctly with the help of a professional hair stylist.

Even though these fusion hair extensions are quite heavy on the pocket, the results are worth every penny you spend on them.

Sew-in Hair Extensions

Sew in hair extensions are one of the first hair extensions methods. These long term hair extensions are sewn onto your natural hair with care to make sure they look natural and does not damage your real hair. The sew in hair wefts are sown on to micro braids of your natural hair to give the effect that it is growing from the scalp.

This kind of hair extensions can be a bit uncomfortable for people who are not used to keep their hair tied tightly or used to carry weight on their head.

Avoid getting sew-in hair extensions if you have thin hair that is prone to fall out. They are also not a perfect match for people who have a sensitive scalp that gets irritated easily. Start the process with freshly washed sew-in hair wefts hair to avoid any irritation of your scalp. Choose your salon wisely and make sure the hairstylist is experienced and trained for installing this kind of hair extensions or else wrongly done sew-in air extensions can damage the roots of the hair. Other than that, sew-in hair extensions are perfect for long term hair transformation at an affordable price.

What are some easy-to-install hair extensions?

Unless you have secret hairdressing skills, the easiest hair extensions for you to install on your own are either clip in extensions or invisible wire extensions. The descriptions of both of them are in their names. Clip in extensions are perfect for those who want a stress-free hair extensions experience. As for invisible wire extensions, they are also easy to apply & remove, but are preferred for when you are in a rush since you can just flip them on like a headband for a quick and realistic look. As for permanent extensions, the easiest and simplest ones are tape in extensions. Despite being a little bit more expensive than other permanent hair extensions, they are by far the easiest to apply!

How to properly install hair extensions?

Clip in

Always begin from the bottom of your head when installing clip-in extensions. Part your hair horizontally in straight lines and attach the extension against the parting. If your hair isn’t too thick, use hairspray or a backcombing technique for a firmer grip. Clip-in extensions take 5 to 15 minutes to install so they’re an easy and quick method to help you out.

Clip in extensions are a stress-free hair extension method. Perfect to wear extensions occasionally without any commitment!

Tape-in extensions

These are ideal for thin or fine hair and the installing method isn’t much too different from clip-in extensions. However, instead of clips, the hair weft has adhesive tape on top of it which you can paste over the parting and sandwich the extensions between your hair. Make sure to keep the tape away from your roots as they can cause damage.

Tape in extensions are the best extensions for thin or fine hair.

Fusion

Fusion hair extensions have every strand tipped with keratin bond, heated to form a glue-like substance, which your stylist can melt to attach to your hair securely yet discreetly. On average, a full head requires about 80 strands to 150 strands of fusion hair extensions for an authentic finish. The installation can take from 3 to 4 hours and you can wear them for up to 6 months if you take good care. These can be customized to your own desired color or texture however you want.

Fusion extensions are the most preferred hair extensions by celebrities because they hold on to your hair firmly.

Micro-loop / micro-beads extensions

Each strand of micro-loop hair extensions has a loop attached to it which your stylist can attach to your hair strand by strand. Pliers are used to tighten and secure the loops into a secure bond after looping the strand of hair through it. There is no glue or heat involved in the process but it’s important to be careful since the loop could break and damage your hair or head.

Micro-loop hair extensions are installed strand by strand without any glue!

Sew in extensions

Sew in extensions are the cheapest hair installation method and has two processes; full head method or track method. For the full head method, the hair is braided first and the sew in wefts extensions are sewn into the braid using a needle in a zig zag, circular or back and forth pattern depending on the required end result. For the track method, three to four horizontal lines are braided and then the hair wefts extensions are sewn into them delicately for a secure finish. The downside of these sew in hair extensions is that not a lot of salons and stylists offer these installation methods.

Sew in extensions are the cheapest hair extensions method. But be careful, not many hairdressers or hair salons offer this service!

Hair Extensions by Installation Time

The installation time of hair extensions depends on the person’s expertise and the method used but we compiled a list of time durations so you can know what to expect when you go to the salon.

• Invisible wire extensions: 1-2 minutes, short term use.
• Clip-in extensions: 2-10 minutes, short term use.
• Ponytail extensions: 2-10 minutes, short term use.
• Tape-in extensions: 30-90 minutes, long term use.
• Micro loop extensions: 1-4 hours, long term use
• Fusion extensions: 1-4 hours, long term use
• Sew-in extensions: 1-3 hours, long term use

How to Remove Hair Extensions?

Other than clip-in extensions, invisible wire extensions, and ponytail extensions (Temporary Hair Extensions Methods), we recommend getting your extensions removed by the stylist that installed them since it’s always best to have someone with expertise do this job. If you don’t want to damage or rip out your natural hair, it’s best not to take them out yourself no matter how loose you feel your extensions have become. Don’t take any chances and always go to your trusted stylist, especially if you want to remove fusion hair extensions since they require a special removable adhesive to get them out of your hair. Refrain from using nail polish remover or acetone since these are extremely harsh chemicals and will damage your hair. Micro-link extensions also must be removed by expert stylists since the removal requires special tools. Step out of your comfort zone and spend a little extra money to get the removal done at a professional hair extensions salon to make sure you don’t end up damaging your natural hair.

Don’t take hair extensions out yourself no matter how loose you feel your extensions have become! 

The Average Life Span of Hair Extensions

The average life of temporary hair extensions is around 6 to 8 month but again, it depends upon how well you take care of them. Poorly kept hair extensions can get dry and damaged within a few months. However, if you take good care of your hair extensions, they might last you for around a year or so.

If you take care of your hair extensions during and after wearing them, they will look fresh and natural for a longer period of time. Just follow the below mentioned tips and tricks to ensure your hair extensions stay in the best condition and you can make the most out of them.

How to Take Care and Style Your Hair Extensions?

Brushing hair extensions

According to renowned hairstylists across the globe, the biggest thing that destroys your hair extensions are tangles. Make sure you are brushing your hair thoroughly whether you have extensions on or not. Even after removing your hair extensions, run a comb through them to ensure there are no knots left behind before you store them away.

It is best to use a chunky paddle brush or tangle teezer to brush through your hair extensions as they are more gentle on the hair than any other hair styling tool. If you’re on the hunt for the best hair brush for extensions, we suggest our Detangling Hair Extensions Brush.

Pro tip: brush your hair extensions everyday! The more you brush your extensions the better your experience will be.

Haircare Products for hair extensions

The less hair styling products you use on your hair extensions, the better it is as you will not be able to wash your hair extensions on a daily basis. Using too many styling products can make your extensions look tacky and heavy.

Use a sulfate and phthalates free shampoo to make sure the natural moisture of your hair extensions is not ripped off. Use a good leave-in conditioner after shampooing your hair to keep your hair extensions, soft, bouncy, and in the best condition for a long time.

When styling with heating tools, never forget to apply a good quality heat protectant to avoid any serious damage to your hair extensions.

Washing your hair extensions

Washing your hair extensions and your natural hair daily is good for the health of your hair. It is best to wash your hair with lukewarm water when you have hair extensions on as hot water can loosen up the bonds and cause your hair extensions to detach.

As mentioned above, use a sulfate and phthalate free shampoo and gently massage it in the roots of your hair and thoroughly rinse to make sure no product is left in your hair.

Conditioning hair extensions

Deep conditioning is necessary when you have hair extensions installed in your hair. Apply a good quality leave-in conditioner to nourish your natural hair and hair extensions deeply for softer, shinier, and bouncier hair.

Drying hair extensions

Even though it is alright to use heat on your hair if your hair extensions are made up of real hair, but the best way to dry your hair extensions is to let them air dry after brushing t thoroughly to avoid matting.

Wash your clip-in hair extensions with lukewarm water and shampoo and leave them to dry on a towel. This process will allow the towel to soak up any extra moisture and your hair extensions will be dry and ready to use again in no time.

For the other, more permanent hair extensions, wash them like you would wash your natural hair, and dry the roots of your hair with a hair dryer set on the cold air, and then leave the rest of your hair to air dry as normal.

Drying your hair extensions like this will allow you to wear them for a long period of time.

If possible, never ever use a hair dryer. Always try to let your extensions air dry.

Overnight Hairstyles using hair extensions

If you think you will not have enough time in the morning to get ready and style your hair, then opt for overnight hairdos with your hair extensions. Braid them tightly at night to achieve beautiful, natural curls in the morning.

It will also allow your hair extensions to have less exposure to heating tools and keep them healthy and fresh for months.

Swimming with hair extensions

Your hair extensions shouldn’t stop you from your everyday activities like swimming or enjoying a great vacation to the beach or a trip to the pool. Just make sure you are prepared before you dive in.

Apply a little bit of protective oil like jojoba oil or argan oil that are not as oily as the other oils but do a great job at protecting your hair from the chemicals in the pool water by creating a barrier between your hair extensions and all these harmful chemicals.

If you have blonde hair, then protect it using a shower cap to avoid your hair turning green. The chlorine and copper in the pool water are really harmful to blonde hair and makes it change color.

With a few preventive measures, you will be able to enjoy your swimming as you’ve always had. Make sure to properly wash your hair with warm water once you get out of the ocean or pool.

You are better off not having hair extensions when swimming. If you have to, wear a swim cap!

The more pool or ocean water you can get out as soon as possible the less chance you have any damage occurring to your hair.

If you find that the color is changing, or your bond is becoming loose, book an appointment with a stylist who will be able to use a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue and also a maintenance session to tighten any of your extensions.

We find that most of our customers are able to enjoy a full and active lifestyle and even on holidays are able to dip in the pool as they please without any worry about their extensions as long as they follow the tips above.

Removing hair extensions

Temporary hair extensions are quite easy to remove. Whether it’s clip in extensions, invisible wire extensions, or ponytail hair extensions, removing these types of extensions take only a few minutes and can be done safely & quickly from home.

If you have permanent hair extensions installed in your hair, then it is ideal to go to the very salon for the removal of your hair extensions.  Do not try to remove the permanent hair extensions on your own if you do not have professional tools or training to do it. It might give you long term damage that you will not be able to fix easily.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hair Extensions

Do’s:

• Use high-quality hair extensions
• Pick the right kind of hair extensions for your hair type.
• Chose the right installation method and a certified stylist for installation.
• Take extensive care of your hair extensions.
• Put on your hair extensions properly.
• Brush your hair extensions daily to make sure there are no knots left.
• Conceal your hair extensions smartly.
• Confidently tell people that you wear hair extensions.
• Use temporary extensions if you never had extensions before.

Don’ts:

• Don’t use a lot of heat on hair extensions, and especially not on extensions made of synthetic hair
• Avoid using thin combs for detangling. Use a quality detangling hair extensions brush
• Don’t install permanent hair extensions without the help of a professional.
• Do not wash your extensions too often or with harsh shampoos.
• Dying your hair extensions is often a bad idea.
• Never bleach hair extensions.

Proper Storage of Hair Extensions?

Storing hair extensions properly is quite necessary to keep them in good condition for a long period of time. There are different ways to store different kind hair extensions and keep them safe. Here is how,

#1 In Boxes

Boxes are an amazing option to store your hair extensions in if you want to keep them away for a long period of time. Make sure the box is not airtight and has enough space for circulation. Just keep your hair extensions away from dust and strong smells to store them properly.

#2 On Hair Extension Hangers

Another way to store your extensions is by hanging them on hair extensions hangers. They make sure your hair extension is lying straight, without entangling and getting any fold or twist marks on the hair. If you store your hair extensions this way, you will be able to quickly install them into your hair without having to worry about straightening or combing through them.

#3 In Storage Bags

Keep your hair extensions smooth by storing them in silk or satin bags. Use dark colored bags to avoid any damage caused by light exposure, if you are storing them away for a long time.

Hair Extensions On the Go

The best thing about hair extensions is that you can take them with you wherever you go for instant hair transformations for special occasions. Keep the box or bag of your hair extensions as straight as possible in the middle of your bag to make sure the shafts or the hair do not get damaged.

Your hair extensions should be completed dried and tangle free before you pack them in your suitcase.

How to Revive Completely Damaged Hair Extensions

If you find a bunch of hair extensions lying in an unfortunate condition in some part of your room, how will you revive it? Well, it depends on a lot of factors. First of all, you need to see if the clips or bonds of the hair extensions are in good conditions that can be reused or not. If they are in a usable condition, the first and foremost thing you should do is to gently brush out all the tangles in your hair extensions and smoothen out all the dry ends with the help of scissors.

The next step is to wash them with a sulfate and phthalate free shampoo and brush them out again with the help of tangle teezer and pat them dry with a towel. While the extensions are still damp, apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner and leave it to set. Once done, your hair extensions will be ready to use like you normally would.

However, sometimes the hair extensions are damaged beyond the level of being repaired. In that case, you will have to discard them and invest in a new set of hair extensions.

The Quality Matters

The longevity of your hair extensions life also depends on the quality of hair extensions you have bought. No matter how careful you are with your extensions, if they are made up of cheap quality hair, they will always be damaged way before expected.

How to Care for Dry Hair Extensions

If your hair extensions get dry and brittle or you notice any split ends in your hair extensions, treat your hair extensions with a good, deeply nourishing conditioner. An overnight hot oil treatment will also add shine, and a healthy bounce to your hair extensions while moisturizing them from within.

Wash them properly and treat them as needed to get rid of the dryness problem form your hair extensions.

Top Tips for Tangled Hair Extensions

• Never leave your hair extensions unwashed and uncombed when you take them off.
• Always use a paddle brush or tangle teezer to get rid of knots.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner and oil treatments to keep your hair extensions silky and smooth.
• Store them properly as advised to avoid knots and tangles in the first place.
• Brush your hair extensions before installing them in your hair.

With a little care before and after wearing your extensions, you can avoid tangles all together.

Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Hair Extensions

Shampoo:

The best hair care products for hair extensions are always the ones with the gentlest ingredients. As these hairs are not connected to the roots, there is only so much damage they can bear before completely dying out. Always use a light clarifying shampoo that is free from sulfates and phthalates. These ingredients are mentions as SLS or ALS on the back of the shampoo bottle.

Ask your salon to suggest you the best shampoo for your hair and the type of hair extensions you have opted for.

For clip-ins, just add a bit of gentle shampoo in your sink and let them soak in the shampoo water for about half an hour. Rinse them properly and let it dry.

Conditioner:

The best tip to keep your hair extensions as good as new is to hydrate them as much as you can. Opt for ultra-hydrating conditioners and masks to treat your hair extensions every now and then.

Look for moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil, jojoba oil, and aloe vera as hydrating your hair extensions well is the key to long-lasting hair extensions that look as good as new.

Also, look for the best quality hair extensions for the products to work and absorb properly. The quality of the hair extensions matters a lot, which we are going to talk about in the next chapter.

Synthetic VS Human Hair Extensions?

It’s best to be sure of whether you want synthetic or human hair extensions, before actually getting the extensions. Human hair always takes the trophy for us but depending on budget and style, synthetic hair can also be a great option.

Before you decide between either of the categories, you need to get through a few points. To make sure you have chosen the right hair extensions for yourself before investing in them, check out the questions below thoroughly and answer them clearly.

For us there is no question, human hair always wins, taking into consideration your budget and style, sometimes synthetic hair can be just as good an alternative.

How Frequent Would Your Usage Be?

Selecting the right hair extensions for yourself require having a clear idea of how frequent your usage of the extensions be, as there are a different kind of extensions for different time periods.

In case you intend to wear them rarely like for special occasions, then it’s a good idea to opt for temporary hair extensions so that application and removal would be a hassle-free task. Here, synthetic hair extensions sit well as an option.

However, if you plan to wear them for a longer time period, then it would be considered to not go for synthetic hair. This does not mean synthetic hair lacks in quality, but simply that human hair in maintenance, i.e. styling and washing, is superior.

What’s Your Style?

Choosing hair extensions also depends on how you usually style your hair. From intricate braids to simple ponytails, all styles are possible with all kinds of hair extensions, but certain styles may be best with certain types of hair extensions.

For simple yet gorgeous styles like show-stopping long ponytails, then synthetic would be a trouble-free and effective choice without spending a fortune. Synthetic hair is also good for constantly changing your hairstyles.

What’s Your Budget?

The decision of choosing hair extensions also falls heavily on your budget. If you want to save a few bucks, then synthetic hair would be the right option for you because they are cheaper than a human hair. However, it does not mean in any way that you have to compromise on quality. Synthetic hair extensions sold on USA Hair are made of high-quality synthetic hair that will blend naturally with your own hair for a discreet result!

Can You Dye Hair Extensions?

If you want to do some dyeing experiments, then synthetic hair is not the one for you because of its delicate fibers. To tackle this problem, synthetic hair is sold in a vast variety of colors.

Human hair is more suitable for dyeing, though that too might be a little risky. We recommend you don’t dye your extensions.

Can The Extensions Be Bleached?

The safest bet is to not bleach any hair extensions, but if you really wish to, do it on virgin hair only. Virgin hair will take a bigger bite out of your budget, and aren’t offered on many websites. Often, human hair extensions are made of human “Remy” hair, which is suitable for most people because it’s a great offer of quality and affordability.

We still advise not to bleach human hair since the damage can reduce the lifespan of the extensions because they are already chemically processed. For these reasons, merchants are not responsible for any damage due to bleaching or dying.

Even if you make a purchase of human hair, we still advise against coloring it as this process can be very hit and miss and also can do a lot of damage to the hair if not done correctly.

What Are Human Hair Extensions?

Yep, you’ve guessed right. Human hair extensions are made from hair donated by suitable donors from all over the world. The human hair extensions sold on USAhair.com are real high-quality human hair.

We collect hair for these extensions from temples in India where the people have a tradition to shave their hair as a religious practice at least one time in their life. This entire process can be considered a charity since a large number of people that shave their hair there, that is sold and the money goes back to communities.

Do watch out for frauds though! Often, sellers claim their extensions to be made from human hair but it is just a combination of human and synthetic fibers.

What’s really important is to buy hair extensions from sellers who obtained the hair legally & ethically.

Pros of human hair extensions

#1 Blending:

Getting human hair extensions that match your hair will blend excellently, making them look more real. This provides a natural and gorgeous look.

#2 Promising Variety:

In comparison to synthetic hair, human hair extensions last for a shorter time period but they are great for styling. You can use the same extensions for multiple styles as they are just like natural and easy to work with.

#3 Heat Resistant:

Since they are made of human hair, they are heat resistant, giving you the option to create multiple styles with a curling or straightening iron.

#4 Can Be Colored:

Just like you can color your own hair, you can dye your human hair extensions because they have the same properties, to spice up your look. But it’s preferable not to dye or bleach the extensions!

Cons of human hair extensions

#1 Expensive:

Human hair is more expensive in comparison to synthetic hair because the fiber is actually human hair, collected from reliable donors in legal & ethical way, which is more valuable and costs more.

#2 Vulnerable:

Since they have all the properties of human hair, these extensions can be damaged too, and become dry, have split ends, etc. It is important to take care of them by using the right kind of hair brush, shampoo, and conditioner, and timely trimming.

#3 Limited Texture:

Since human hair grows in a certain texture, the extensions made from them are offered in that certain texture which kinds of limit your options in terms of texture.

Synthetic Hair Extensions (description, PROs & CONs)

Hair extensions made from synthetic fibers and are just as good when installed and styled properly.

If you buy good quality synthetic hair extensions from a reliable store, they will look just as good as real hair.  The trick is to place a wet wipe on a hairbrush and run it through the synthetic to wipe away excess sheen and make it look more real. Furthermore, you can style it according to what suits you best.

Washing Synthetic Hair Extensions:

Since synthetic hair doesn’t gather dirt and oil, there isn’t any need to wash them. Awesome, right? Right, but make sure to keep them away from strong odors since they settle in synthetic hair. Although, if the hair has somehow gotten dirty, gently rinse them with warm soapy water and make sure to not get it tangled.

Synthetic Hair and Heat Treatment:

Synthetic hair does not go well with heat treatment, because of the polymer fibers. Though there are heat-free methods that you can curl your synthetic hair with, for example:

• perm rods
• rollers
• cold set method, which is parting the hair, applying hair mousse and letting them set with the above mentioned curling tools

Some kinds of synthetic hair can handle little amounts of heat, so you can set them in rollers and soak them in warm water for a little while to curl them.

The lifespan of Synthetic Hair:

Since they don’t get damaged as human hair does, they can last for quite a long time 3 months to 12 months, as long as you take good care of them.

What are Virgin Hair Extensions?

Virgin hair extensions are raw human hair extensions that have not been processed in any way, coming straight from the donor, gathered, and then to you.

Advantages:

As the hair is not processed with any chemicals, it is in a healthier condition and give a more natural look.

Disadvantages:

Virgin hair, due to its being unprocessed and it’s high value, costs more than a processed human hair. Plus, having to buy different sets could result in slight difference of texture or color, since the hair is collected from different donors.

What Are Remy Hair Extensions?

Human hair extensions that have undergone processing like disinfecting, dying, or adjusting the texture, are called “Remy Hair Extensions”.

Here at USAhair.com, we treat the hair gently and with love to ensure quality, making sure they are clean, and offering an impressive variety of colors to meet the requirements of many.

A slight disadvantage of Remy Hair is that since it has gone already gone through the process, it leaves it slightly more delicate if compared to virgin hair, specifically when it comes to heat-treating, dyeing, or bleaching.  Always remember to use a protectant for all these styling methods.

Remy vs Virgin Hair:

Compared to standard Virgin Hair, Remy Hair ensures a longer lasting level of quality because it has already been processed in order to lock the texture and color in the extensions.

If you get 18-inch long extensions, about 80% of the hair would be 18 inches while the remaining 20% would be around 15 to 17 inches.

Double Drawn vs. Single Drawn Extensions

Double drawn hair extensions are those in which the length is balanced by cutting it by hand. They are cheaper and more suitable for a voluminous and blunt look, but they are heavier which might make it a little uncomfortable for people with thin hair.

Single drawn hair extensions, however, are slightly narrower towards the tips which camouflage with the real hair more naturally.

Hair Extension Grades Explained

Usually when you read something referred with an A grade, normally you would think that it is great quality and is the best there is to offer, but that is not exactly the case with hair extensions and their quality. The letter “A” defines how long and how dense the hair extensions in the subject are, and as the level of both these attributes increases, so does the number of letter A associated with the extensions. The more the letter “A” is attached with a type of hair extensions, it means the extensions are longer in length and denser.

For example, a single “A” associated with a type of hair extensions means that they are single drawn and about 50% of the hair are of the mentioned length.

The number of the letter “A” increases with density and length (like AAAA, or AAAAA+) and can go up to 7 A’s, which refers to kind of hair that has around 80% of the stated length.

If any hair extension has more A’s associated with it, that does not mean that it is higher in quality and hair extensions with a lesser amount of A’s is cheap and low quality. The number of the letter “A” is simply used to define the density and the length of the hair extensions. Rest assured, it has nothing to do with the standard of the hair extensions, whether human hair or synthetic hair.

The quality of the hair extensions and how long will they last really depends on two factors, i.e. 1) the way it is manufactured and 2) how well you take care of it. As the saying goes “It’s all in the details”, it is the same for hair extensions. The details in the manufacturing process of any kind of hair extensions, for example, dyeing, disinfecting, and collection sources, really play quite a significant role in determining how well in quality the extensions would turn out to be and how long would they last for. This might be the reason why people have troubles with unnaturally blonde hair extensions since they are dyed or bleached heavily which messes up with its quality and durability.

To avoid being scammed and getting nothing less than the best hair extensions for yourself, the safest trick is to buy hair extensions from reliable and reputable stores, like USAhair.com.

USAhair.com specializes in all kinds of hair extensions, producing from intensive knowledge and care. Here at USAhair.com, our top priority is to set the bar of quality high and avoid any low effort manufacture so that our product does not fail you in any way. USAhair.com takes special care of the needs of their customer and makes extensions with love to offer the best product to all buyers.

How Much Do They Cost?

The prices of hair extensions may vary depending upon the length, color, and volume of the extensions.

The easiest way to learn how much hair extensions cost is to visit USA Hair official website. Navigate among different hair extensions categories, select your hair color & hair length and find out by yourself the total price of hair extensions.

You can also view our blog post on how much do hair extensions cost in America?

How to Save a Few Bucks While Buying Hair Extensions?

If budget is an issue, then keep your eyes out for hair extensions deals and discounts offered by renowned hair extension brands like USAhair.com and get your hands on your desired hair extensions at a fraction of the original price.

Length and Weight

Length and weight of the hair are one of the main factors that determine the price of the hair extensions. The more the length and weight, the more expensive it will be.

Installation and Maintenance Expenses

For the permanent hair extensions, you will have to get them installed with the help of a professional. The installation process can be a bit costly depending upon the type of your hair extensions.

Once you get the hang of wearing hair extensions, you will realize that the money you have sent is actually worth it.

How to Choose the Right Hair Color

When choosing hair extensions, it would be best to choose a color that matches your original hair so that the extensions blend naturally.

It is important that you know your hair tone. Try using our hair color match service to find the perfect hair color.

In cases of customized hair color like highlights or ombre, then go for extensions that match the color tone of our hair’s lower length because that is the part that shows more, compared to the roots. Still can’t decide on the right color for you? Don’t worry, we can help you out in 4 different ways!

• Get 2 free hair color swatches 
• Order USA Hair extensions samples
• Order USA Hair full color ring (30 hair colors in the ring)
• Send us a selfie, and we’ll recommend you a hair color

Trouble finding the perfect shade? Simply send a selfie to info@usahair.com and we’ll assist you the best we can in choosing the right color.

Colored Hair Extensions and Skin Tones

Although being able to color your hair opens various new possibilities, enabling you to try out multiple different looks, it should be taken into consideration that not all hair colors suit all skin tones.

If you want hair extensions that are lighter than your original hair color, about two or three shades lighter would be a good idea. Make sure that the undertones match so that the colors settle well with your skin.

What Length Should Your Hair Be for Hair Extensions?

In order to be able to wear hair extensions, you should have at least 3 inches long hair so that the extensions have sufficient support to hold onto and blend with. In case of short hair, your hair partitions should be at least 3 inches long for extensions to be installed and so that you can easily have the style of your choice. If the hair is shorter than the required length of 3 inches, the extensions might slip off and not provide the right style.

Though sometimes requirements are different according to the stylist’s application method and the user; to clear this issue, it’s best to contact and discuss the details with your stylist beforehand.

What If Your Hair Is Not Long Enough

In the possibility that your hair is too short, do not fret, there is still an option for you.

The option is that instead of hair extensions, you can get a complete wig. With wigs, you can either modify your appearance a little bit or go for a more dramatic change. The plus point is that you can experiment with many different styles and length with wigs without fearing any permanent commitment.

What Length Should Your Hair Extensions Be

What length of hair extensions you should get is decided by what kind of style you want to be combined with what is your budget, because as the length of the extensions increases, so does their price.

Since the length of 18 to 22 inches is common in the purchase of hair extensions, it is easily available to many users at an affordable price. However, hair extensions longer than these lengths are less commonly available, therefore costing more.

If you are getting hair extensions for the first time, it is advised that you get only 6-12 inches longer than your actual hair, unless it’s specifically short. It is so that you can get used to the extra length and don’t have to deal with a huge mess, possibly damaging the extensions.

The smart way to go about hair extensions is to get them longer than your original hair so that the ends don’t look uneven & bulky. Here is a scale of where the different lengths of hair extensions would reach.

#1 12” – 30 cm – Above Shoulders.

#2 14” – 35cm – Mid Back.

#3 16” – 40cm – Bra Strap.

#4 18” – 45cm – Mid Back.

#5 20” – 50cm – Lower Back.

#6 24” – 60cm – Tailbone.

What Weight Hair Extensions Should You Get:

Make sure to get hair extensions of the weight that you can handle. More hair means more weight. As an example, here is a scale of the standard weight of clip-in hair extensions.

#1 14″ standard weight: 85g

#2 18″ standard weight: 100g

#3 22″ standard weight: 115g

#4 14″ standard weight: 125g

#5 18″ standard weight: 145g

#6 22″ standard weight: 155g

USAhair.com provides sets enough for a full head. Keep in mind that standard weight varies according to different kinds of hair extensions.

If you want to buy hair extensions online, USAhair.com will be your one-stop shop for all your hair extensions needs.

We offer high-quality hair extensions at affordable prices. All orders ship for free everywhere in America, and are delivered quickly. Browse our hair extensions now!

Reasons to Choose USAhair.com For Your Next Set of Hair Extensions:

• We ship our products all over the United States of America for FREE
• We have a quick and trained customer service team to solve all your hair extensions related queries.
• We have a hassle-free shipping and return policy for the satisfaction of our customers.
• We provide the best quality of hair extensions in your desired hair length, thickness, volume, color, and texture.
• We also provide a lot more than just hair extensions! We also proudly carry full head wigs to help you reach your hairstyle goals without damaging your hair.

As we stated at the beginning, hair extensions can be tricky subject to tackle the first time around but hopefully as you have more practice wearing them and come back to this guide whenever you need to pick up new tips and tricks to make sure that your hair extensions will always be fabulous and flawless.

Bonus: 30+ Celebrities With Hair Extensions:

If we were under any illusion that the rich and famous don’t wear hair extensions and all that money has unlocked the secret to good hair, well the age of social media has shattered all our false thoughts surrounding those claims. Before we used to have to wait for glossy magazines to see what happened on the red carpet now we all we have to do is browse Instagram to find our favorites to see how they are dressing and wearing their hair on a daily basis.

This means that when they go from one style to another, we can easily tell when they have decided to dip into the pool of hair extensions.

While some do it better than others, we can all agree that hair extensions can magically change your look and it’s not such a taboo as it used to be.

Plus if your faves are doing it then why not you especially as the tools and styles are more readily available and understood so can be carried out by your local stylist.

Below we have listed some of our top celebrities that can be seen commonly wearing hair extensions of various kinds: from tape extensions, fusion, to lace fronts, these celebs do it all, so well that we can hardly tell.

In fact, when we tried to look and find out information about the styles they wear, it was still a mystery but we can guarantee that their hair didn’t grow overnight or they couldn’t just get those colors on their natural hair.

Selena Gomez

Victoria Beckham

Katie Holmes

Scarlett Johansonn

Emilia Clarke

Kylie Jenner

Ariana Grande

Jennifer Lopez

Rita Ora

Miley Cyrus

Chrissy Teigen

Shay Mitchell

Kim Kardashian

Gigi Gorgeous

Zendaya

Emma Stone

Rihanna

Beyonce

Sarah Hyland

Kaley Cuoco

Vanessa Hudgens

Jennifer Lawrence

Gigi Hadid

Khloe Kardashian

Nicki Minaj

Lady Gaga

Keke Palmer

Megyn Kelly

Rebecca Judd