A Guide to Choosing the Right Hair Extensions 

Want beautiful, voluminous hair? Hair extensions have changed the way we transform our hair, giving us endless options to enhance our natural beauty. Whether you want longer hair, more volume, or to try out different styles, picking the right hair extensions is key to achieving the look you want. 

This guide will help you understand how to choose the best hair extensions for your specific needs. You’ll learn about: 

• The various types of extensions and how they’re used 
• The difference between human and synthetic hair 
• How to match colors perfectly 
• Important maintenance routines 
• Installation options: professional vs. DIY 
• Budget considerations and quality factors 

At Salon ONYX, we believe that the perfect hair extensions should feel as natural as your own hair while reflecting your personal style. Let’s embark on this journey to find your ideal hair extensions, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your beauty goals and lifestyle needs. 

1. Types of Hair Extensions 

There are various types of hair extensions available, each with its own benefits and application methods. Let’s explore them in more detail: 

Clip-Ins 

Clip-in hair extensions stand out as the most versatile and user-friendly option in the extensions family. These wefts come with small pressure-sensitive clips that snap securely into your natural hair. 

Key Features: 

• Ready to wear in minutes 
• Zero permanent commitment 
• Multiple pieces for customizable volume 
• Removable for daily or occasional wear 
• Safe for hair when properly applied 

Application Process: 

• Section your natural hair horizontally 
• Tease the roots slightly for better grip 
• Snap the clips close to your scalp 
• Blend with your natural hair 

Perfect For: 

• Special occasions 
• Temporary length or volume 
• First-time extension users 
• DIY styling enthusiasts 
• Active lifestyles 

Pro Tips: 

• Start with smaller wefts near the nape 
• Layer pieces strategically for natural volume 
• Match your hair texture for seamless blending 
• Store flat in a cool, dry place 
• Brush gently with a loop brush 

Clip-in extensions create instant transformation without the need for salon visits. You can experiment with different lengths, colors, and styles while maintaining the health of your natural hair. Their temporary nature makes them an excellent starting point for anyone curious about hair extensions. 

Tape-Ins 

Tape-in hair extensions offer a semi-permanent solution that lasts 6-8 weeks with proper care. These extensions consist of pre-taped wefts that sandwich your natural hair between two adhesive strips. The application process requires professional expertise to ensure proper placement and prevent damage to your natural hair. 

Key Features of Tape-Ins: 

• Lightweight and comfortable to wear 
• Lie flat against the head for a natural look 
• Reusable for 2-3 applications with new tape 
• Take about 1-1.5 hours for full installation 

The thin, transparent tape remains virtually invisible while securing the extensions firmly in place. This method works particularly well for those with fine to medium hair textures, as the lightweight design won’t put excessive strain on your natural strands. 

Professional maintenance visits every 6-8 weeks allow for removal and reapplication, keeping your extensions looking fresh and preventing any potential damage to your natural hair. During these appointments, your stylist will carefully remove the old tape, clean the hair, and reapply the extensions with new adhesive strips. 

Sew-Ins (Weaves) 

Sew-in hair extensions offer a secure, long-lasting solution for those seeking dramatic length and volume. This method involves braiding your natural hair into cornrows, then using a needle and thread to sew wefts of hair onto these braids. 

Perfect for: 

• Thick, textured hair types 
• Active lifestyles 
• Long-term wear (6-8 weeks) 
• Maximum volume and length 

The installation process requires skill and precision – your stylist will create a foundation of tight, neat cornrows close to the scalp. These serve as the base for attaching the weft extensions, ensuring a flat, natural-looking result. 

A key advantage of sew-ins is their versatility in styling. You can part your hair in different directions, wear high ponytails, and style as desired without worrying about visible attachments. The secure attachment method also makes sew-ins ideal for swimming and intense workouts. 

Pro tip: Choose lightweight wefts to minimize tension on your natural hair and scalp. 

Micro Links 

Micro link hair extensions offer a unique installation method that preserves your natural hair’s health. These extensions use tiny metal beads to secure small sections of extension hair to your natural strands – no heat, glue, or harsh chemicals required. 

The installation process is precise and methodical: 

• Small sections of your natural hair are threaded through copper or aluminum beads 
• Extension wefts are placed inside these beads 
• The beads are gently clamped to hold everything in place 

Benefits of Micro Links: 

• Zero damage to your natural hair 
• Completely invisible when properly installed 
• Can last up to 4 months with proper care 
• Allow for natural hair movement 
• Suitable for most hair types and textures 

The beads come in various colors to match your hair shade, creating a seamless blend. You can wash, style, and maintain your regular hair care routine with micro links – they move and behave just like your natural hair. 

These extensions are ideal for clients seeking a semi-permanent solution without compromising their hair’s health. The installation requires skilled precision, making professional application essential for optimal results. 

Keratin Bonded Extensions 

Keratin bonded extensions offer a seamless, natural-looking transformation through an innovative fusion process. These extensions attach to your natural hair using heated keratin protein bonds, creating a secure connection that moves and feels like your own hair. 

The installation process requires precision and expertise: 

• Pre-bonded tips contain high-grade keratin that matches your hair’s natural protein structure 
• Heat fusion creates microscopic bonds that lay flat against your scalp 
• Strategic placement ensures even distribution and natural movement 
• Custom color matching delivers invisible attachment points 

The results can last 3-5 months with proper care, making keratin bonds an excellent choice for long-term wear. Professional installation is essential – the precise temperature control and placement techniques require specialized training to prevent damage to your natural hair. 

These extensions work beautifully for: 

• Fine to medium hair textures 
• Clients seeking volume and length 
• Those who want a swimming-friendly option 
• People looking for versatile styling possibilities 

2. Material Considerations in Choosing Hair Extensions 

The choice between human and synthetic hair extensions can significantly impact your styling possibilities and investment value. Let’s explore the key differences: 

Human Hair Extensions 

• Made from real human hair collected from donors 
• Natural shine and movement that mimics your own hair 
• Can be colored, heat-styled, and treated like natural hair 
• Lasts 6-12 months with proper care 
• Blends seamlessly with your natural hair texture 
• Adapts to weather conditions like your own hair 

Synthetic Hair Extensions 

• Created from various artificial fibers 
• Pre-styled with a permanent pattern 
• Cannot be heat-styled or colored 
• Typically lasts 2-3 months 
• May appear shinier than natural hair 
• Can become frizzy or matted in humid conditions 

Price Point Comparison 

• Human Hair: $200-$1000+ per set 
• Synthetic Hair: $50-$200 per set 

The investment in human hair extensions pays off through their versatility and longevity. You can create various styles – from sleek straight looks to bouncy curls. The ability to color-match and customize human hair extensions makes them ideal for achieving a natural-looking transformation. 

Synthetic extensions serve as an excellent option for temporary style changes or when experimenting with different looks. Their lower price point makes them accessible for special occasions or short-term use. 

At Salon ONYX, we prioritize quality human hair extensions to ensure our clients receive the most natural-looking and long-lasting results. Our specialists can help you determine the best material choice based on your lifestyle, desired maintenance level, and budget requirements. 

3. Quality Factors to Keep in Mind While Selecting Hair Extensions 

The term Remy hair represents the highest quality standard in hair extensions. These premium extensions feature cuticles aligned in the same direction, maintaining the hair’s natural growth pattern. This alignment prevents tangling and matting, creating a seamless blend with your natural hair. 

Key Quality Indicators: 

• Cuticle direction alignment 
• Uniform thickness from root to tip 
• Minimal shedding during gentle tugging 
• Silky, smooth texture 
• Natural shine without artificial coating 

The lifespan of your extensions depends on several critical factors: 

Hair Source Quality: 

• Single-donor hair maintains consistency 
• Virgin hair (unprocessed) offers better durability 
• Double-drawn hair ensures even thickness 

Installation Method Impact: 

• Proper spacing between attachments 
• Correct weight distribution 
• Professional application techniques 

Environmental Influences: 

• Heat exposure frequency 
• Water hardness in your area 
• Sun exposure duration 
• Humidity levels 

Your daily habits play a crucial role in extension longevity. Using sulfate-free products, sleeping with silk pillowcases, and gentle detangling practices help preserve quality. Heat protectant products become essential when styling, while regular deep conditioning treatments maintain moisture balance. 

Professional maintenance appointments every 4-6 weeks allow for necessary adjustments and prevent potential issues before they arise. During these visits, your stylist can assess the condition of your extensions and recommend specific care adaptations based on your hair’s unique needs. 

4. Ensuring Perfect Color Match Between Your Natural Strands And Chosen Extensions 

Creating a seamless blend between your natural hair and extensions starts with understanding your hair’s unique color profile. Let’s dive into the art of perfect color matching! 

Understanding Your Hair’s Undertone 

• Warm undertones: Golden, copper, or honey hues 
• Cool undertones: Ash, platinum, or silvery tints 
• Neutral undertones: Balance between warm and cool 

Pro Tip: Hold a strand of your hair against a white piece of paper in natural lighting to identify your true color and undertone. 

Color Matching Techniques 

• Multi-dimensional matching: Choose extensions with subtle variations in tone to match your natural hair’s depth and dimension 
• Root-to-tip analysis: Consider any natural color gradients in your hair 
• Lighting assessment: Check the color match in different lighting conditions (natural daylight, indoor lighting, evening light) 

Blending Strategies 

• Select extensions slightly lighter than your darkest shade 
• Consider incorporating multiple shades for a natural-looking result 
• Test extension samples against different sections of your hair 

Custom Color Solutions 

Working with a professional colorist can help achieve the perfect match through: 

• Custom toning treatments 
• Strategic placement of different shades 
• Professional color adjustments to existing extensions 

Remember that your natural hair color might change with exposure to sun, styling products, and chemical treatments. Regular color assessments help maintain a flawless blend between your natural hair and extensions. 

5. Choosing The Right Length For A Natural Look With Hair Extensions 

Selecting the perfect length for your hair extensions plays a crucial role in achieving a natural, seamless look. Let’s explore essential tips to help you make the right choice. 

Consider Your Height and Face Shape 

• Petite frames look best with extensions that fall between the shoulders and mid-back 
• Taller individuals can confidently wear longer lengths past the mid-back 
• Round faces benefit from lengths that extend past the chin to create elongating effects 

Lifestyle Compatibility 

• Active lifestyle? Opt for shorter to medium lengths (12-16 inches) 
• Office environment? Mid-length extensions (16-20 inches) offer versatile styling options 
• Special occasions? Longer lengths (20-24+ inches) create dramatic, glamorous looks 

Styling Versatility 

• 12-14 inches: Perfect for bob styles and shoulder-length looks 
• 16-18 inches: Ideal for updos, ponytails, and everyday styling 
• 20-22 inches: Creates dramatic transformations and allows for elaborate braiding 
• 24+ inches: Best suited for those experienced with managing long hair 

Pro Tip: Start with a length close to your natural hair for the most believable results. You can gradually increase length with subsequent installations as you become more comfortable styling and maintaining extensions. 

Remember to factor in your natural hair length when selecting extensions. The final look should create a graduated, blended appearance from your natural hair to the extensions for that flawless, head-turning result. 

6. Caring For And Maintaining Your Beautiful New Locks After Installation 

Your hair extensions represent an investment in your appearance – proper care ensures they remain stunning for months to come. Let’s dive into essential maintenance practices that will keep your extensions looking fresh and natural. 

Daily Care Essentials: 

• Brush your extensions 2-3 times daily using a loop brush or extension-specific brush 
• Start from the bottom and work your way up to prevent tangles 
• Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner to maintain moisture 
• Sleep with a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction 

Washing Guidelines: 

• Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner 
• Wash in a downward motion to prevent tangling 
• Never go to bed with wet extensions 
• Pat dry gently – avoid vigorous rubbing 

Heat Styling Tips: 

• Always use heat protectant products 
• Keep heat tools below 380°F (193°C) 
• Style in small sections for even heat distribution 
• Avoid applying heat directly to attachment points 

Products to Avoid: 

• Oil-based hair products near the bonds 
• Alcohol-heavy styling products 
• Chlorine and salt water exposure 
• Drug store shampoos containing sulfates 

Professional Maintenance: 

• Schedule regular maintenance appointments every 4-6 weeks 
• Have your stylist check attachment points 
• Get professional deep conditioning treatments 
• Replace extensions when recommended by your stylist 

Remember to store any removed extensions properly – keep them tangle-free and clean for future use. A dedicated storage case or hanger helps maintain their shape and integrity between applications. 

7. Professional Installation vs DIY: Which Method To Choose For Your Hair Extensions? 

The decision between professional installation and DIY application can significantly impact your hair extension experience. Let’s explore both options to help you make an informed choice. 

Professional Installation: The Expert Touch 

• Precise placement and secure attachment 
• Custom blending with natural hair 
• Professional-grade tools and techniques 
• Minimal risk of damage to natural hair 
• Long-lasting results 
• Expert advice on maintenance 

DIY Application: The Home Approach 

• Cost-effective solution 
• Flexibility in timing and application 
• Suitable for temporary styles 
• Limited to specific extension types (mainly clip-ins) 
• Learning curve required 
• Potential for uneven placement 

When to Choose Professional Installation: 

• Permanent or semi-permanent extensions (tape-ins, micro-links, keratin bonds) 
• Complex color matching requirements 
• Thick or textured hair types 
• Special occasions or long-term wear 
• Investment in high-quality human hair extensions 

When DIY Works Best: 

• Temporary style changes 
• Clip-in extensions 
• Basic styling needs 
• Budget-conscious choices 
• Experienced in hair styling 

A Word of Caution: Attempting professional-grade installation methods at home can lead to: 

• Improper attachment causing premature shedding 
• Damage to natural hair 
• Visible extension tracks 
• Uneven distribution 
• Reduced lifespan of extensions 

At Salon ONYX, our certified specialists ensure proper installation techniques that protect your natural hair while achieving seamless, beautiful results. Professional installation creates a foundation for long-lasting, natural-looking extensions that enhance your confidence. 

8. Budget Considerations When Buying Hair Extensions 

Hair extensions are an investment in your beauty journey, with prices varying significantly based on quality and type. Let’s break down the costs: 

Synthetic Hair Extensions: 

• Clip-ins: $50-150 
• Tape-ins: $100-200 
• Sew-ins: $100-200 

Human Hair Extensions: 

• Clip-ins: $150-500 
• Tape-ins: $200-800 
• Sew-ins: $300-600 
• Micro links: $400-900 
• Keratin bonds: $500-3000 

Your choice between synthetic and human hair impacts both initial costs and long-term value. While synthetic options offer a budget-friendly starting point, human hair extensions provide: 

• Longer lifespan (up to 1 year with proper care) 
• Natural look and feel 
• Styling versatility 
• Better color matching capabilities 

At Salon ONYX, we understand that quality hair extensions are an investment. Our expert stylists work with you to find solutions that match both your style goals and budget. We offer: 

• Personalized consultations 
• Premium quality extensions 
• Professional installation 
• Custom color matching with services like Professional Hair Coloring and Balayage 
• Maintenance guidance 

Conclusion 

Remember to factor in installation costs and maintenance appointments when planning your hair extension budget. While DIY options might seem cost-effective initially, professional installation can prevent costly damage to your natural hair and ensure your extensions look flawless. 

Ready to transform your look? Visit us at Salon ONYX in Old Town Scottsdale, where we combine luxury with sustainability to create your perfect hair extension experience. 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)