The Pros and Cons of Hair Extensions

If you’re thinking about getting hair extensions, you might be weighing up the pros and cons of all the different types. If you haven’t had hair extensions before, knowing the right choice for you can be difficult. So, what are the benefits of hair extensions?

There are many pros that apply to all hair extension types. Not only do they allow you to add volume and length to your hair, but they can give you a much-needed confidence boost. The cons, however, differ by extension type.

We‘ve compiled a list of all the pros and cons of different types of hair extensions, to help you make the right choice for you!

Clip-In Hair Extensions

Clip-in extensions are wefts of hair that have small metal clips attached. They can then be attached to your natural hair in just minutes, to achieve fuller, thicker locks. Here at The Hair Alchemist, we offer custom-made clip-ins for seamless, long-lasting extensions.

Pros:

• Versatile: Clip-in hair extensions are great for those who don’t want to commit to more permanent hair extensions. They can be clipped in and out to go from short to long hair in just minutes. You can also use clip-ins strategically to complement your hairstyle, offering more volume or more hair to play with.
• Fast Application: You can apply clip-ins relatively quickly, making them great for the more impatient among us. You can change your look from day to day to match your mood, outfit or the occasion.
• Multiple Colours: If you change your hair colour frequently, you may be reluctant to pay for a more permanent extension type. Having to dye your extensions causes damage, meaning they won’t last as long. You can buy clip-in extensions in multiple colours, so you always have extensions on hand, even when you change your hair colour. No matter what colour your hair is, our expert team and custom colour blending service is here to make sure you get the best results.

Cons:

• Short-Term Solution: Whilst the flexibility of being able to remove clip-ins may be ideal for some, they only provide a short-term solution. It may become tiresome to apply hair extensions every day. If this is the case, a more permanent hair extension method might be more suitable.
• Quality: Many of the clip-in extensions you can buy elsewhere online will be lower quality than those created in a salon. Lower-quality hair extensions will not look as natural, nor will they last as long. That’s why, at The Hair Alchemist, we offer bespoke clip-in hair extensions, made from the highest quality Russian hair. We expertly colour match your extensions for a seamless blend and a natural finish, fitting them to suit you and your hair.
• Prolonged Use Damage: Whilst clip-in hair extensions do not cause damage to the natural hair on application, with prolonged use, the metal clips may begin to cause damage. You should always remove your extensions before bed. If you do not, the hair may break or become tangled.

Micro Ring Hair Extensions

Micro ring extensions are The Hair Alchemist’s most popular method of hair extension attachment. We use small metal loops that are clamped shut in order to secure the extension to your natural hair. This style of extension is ideal for those who want a more permanent solution. 

Pros:

• Damage-Free: No glue or heat is used to apply micro rings, therefore no damage is inflicted on the natural hair. This makes them an ideal choice. The metal rings are simply clamped shut around the extension and your natural hair and can be easily removed by a professional.
• Reusable: With proper maintenance and aftercare, your hair extensions can be reused. They may need to be resealed and attachments will need to be redone. However, the hair will be the same. Micro rings often fetch a higher price tag, but their reusability means they are more cost-effective in the long run.
• Seamless Blend: Applying micro rings close to the root means that they blend seamlessly into your hair. Rings of a similar colour to your own hair will also be used to make them as discreet as possible.
• Treat Them Like Your Own Hair: Because micro rings are a more permanent solution, and are high-quality natural hair, you can treat them as you would your own hair. Wash and style them in the same way (making sure to avoid putting product on the attachments).

Cons:

• Not Ideal For Fine Hair:  Micro rings may not be the best extensions for thin hair, as they can be difficult to attach. Fortunately, we also offer mini micro rings. They work in the same way but are much smaller, meaning they can be applied to fine hair.
• Initial Discomfort: Micro rings should never be painful. However, if you have not had them before, the added weight may put a slight strain on your scalp until you get used to them. This should subside after a couple of days. If it does not, it is likely that the extensions have been applied too close to the root.
• Professional Removal Required: You cannot take out micro ring hair extensions on your own. If you attempt to do this, you could damage your own hair and the hair extensions, meaning they cannot be reused. Micro rings should only ever be removed by a professional hair extension specialist.

Tape Hair Extensions

Tape extensions are applied by sandwiching the hair between tape using adhesive. They are not designed as a permanent hair extension solution, but can last a number of weeks, making them ideal for holidays and events.

Pros:

• Fast Application: Tape hair extensions are extremely quick to apply, taking around 45 minutes. Great for if you’re short on time, but still want to achieve the hair of your dreams.
• Reduced Strain: With many types of hair extensions, the added weight can cause strain on your scalp. Because tape extensions are flat, the weight is somewhat spread, meaning irritation is less likely to occur.
• Naturally Flat: The natural flatness of tape extensions is not only ideal for reducing strain, but also helps extensions to blend more seamlessly.

Cons:

• Use Of Adhesive And Solvents: In order for tape extensions to be applied, an adhesive must be used. This can cause damage to your natural hair. You should never try to remove tape extensions on your own as you could end up breaking your hair. The adhesive must be removed using a solvent, by a trained professional. This can also cause damage to your hair.
• Slippage, Folding And Matting: Tape extensions are prone to slipping down the hair, especially if silicone-based products are applied near the attachment. They may also begin to fold and matt with prolonged wear, which can cause traction on the scalp, eventually resulting in traction alopecia. This involves hair loss and redness. In-salon maintenance should be carried out at 5 weekly intervals to avoid this.
• Restrictive: Tape hair extensions are more restrictive than other types as it is not recommended that they are wet for long periods of time. This could rule out swimming or the gym. If you do choose to swim or work out whilst wearing tape extensions, the attachment should be dried as soon as possible.
• Styling: It can be difficult to tie your hair up when wearing tape extensions. Because the attachment is flat to your head, it is more difficult to manoeuvre your hair. If you often wear your hair up, tape extensions are unlikely to be the best choice for you.

Keratin Bond Extensions

Keratin bond extensions, also known as hot fusion extensions, are applied to your hair using a keratin adhesive and heat. They are a more permanent and popular extension type. We, however,  do not recommend or offer hot fusion extensions, due to the damage caused during the attachment process.

Pros: 

• Durable And Long-Lasting: The hot fusion, or keratin bond, method is extremely durable and long-lasting. They can stay in for months at a time with proper maintenance.
• Seamless Blend: The keratin dries clear, therefore, bonds are extremely discreet. They are hard to spot within the hair, meaning whatever style you choose, your hair will look natural.

Cons:

• Long Application Time: Keratin bond extensions require a highly trained professional to apply. Application can take anywhere between 4 and 8 hours, making them one of the longest hair extension types to apply.
• Heat And Adhesive Damage: As they are applied using keratin and heat, your natural hair will suffer damage. We believe that hair extensions should enhance your natural hair, not damage it, which is why we don’t offer this service.
• Discomfort: The added weight of hot fusion hair extensions can sometimes cause discomfort after the initial application. This should subside after a few days.
• Professional Removal: Hot fusion extensions cannot be removed without the help of a highly skilled professional. If you attempt to remove them by yourself, you will likely cause even more damage to your hair.

Weave-In Hair Extensions

Weave-in extensions are applied using a needle and thread. Cornrows will be created in your hair, with the extension then sewn to them. They are not suitable for all hair types, however, as hair needs to be thick enough to disguise the cornrows.

Pros:

• No Heat Or Glue Required: Hair extensions are applied using a needle and thread, meaning the natural hair will not suffer heat or adhesive damage.
• No Slippage Or Gaps: The extensions are literally woven through your own hair, therefore slippage is almost impossible. There will also be no noticeable gaps, helping them to blend seamlessly into your natural hair.
• Long-Lasting: Weave-in hair extensions can last months, so they are a great option for those who want more of a permanent hair extension solution.

Cons:

• Tight Braids Required: In order to apply the extensions, tight cornrows will need to be braided into the hair. These can be painful and could even cause headaches, hair loss and breakages, in severe cases.
• Washing And Maintenance: Weave-in extensions must be washed frequently and thoroughly to ensure they do not become infected with bacteria. The tight braids can make them difficult to wash properly.
• Styling And Discretion: Hair must be thick enough to hide the cornrows, otherwise the extensions will be obvious. This will also need to be taken into account when styling your hair.
• Professional Removal: Weave-in hair extensions must be removed by a professional.

Hair Extensions At The Hair Alchemist

Now you know what the pros and cons of different hair extension types are, you can make the right decision for you and your lifestyle.

Want to find out more? Get in touch with one of our expert hair extension specialists today by clicking the button below, or read more about our process.