News

The Pros and Cons of Hair Extensions

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 which the right extensions for you are can be difficult. 

There are many pros that apply to all hair extensions 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. When it comes to the cons, these 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 Extensions

Clip in hair 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. With clip in extensions, you can buy them in multiple colours so you always have extensions on hand, even when you change your hair colour.

  • Non-damaging application – as clip ins are only temporary, applying them does not cause damage to the natural hair.

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.

  • Lower quality – many of the clip in extensions you can buy online will be lower quality than those created in a salon. Lower quality hair extensions will not look as natural and will also not last as long. 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.

  • Prolonged use damage – whilst clip ins 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 Extensions

Micro ring hair extensions are our 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 extensions 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 micro ring 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 – the application of micro rings close to the root means that they blend seamlessly into your own 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, 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 – it may be difficult to attach micro rings if you have very fine hair. Fortunately, we also offer mini micro rings. They work in the same way but are much smaller meaning they can be applied to thin 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.

  • Styling capabilities – whilst you can treat micro ring extensions in the same way as you would your own hair, it is inevitable that with some hairstyles, the micro rings may be visible. That’s why we use micro rings that match the colour of your natural hair to make them as subtle as possible.

  • 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 extension hair, meaning they cannot be reused. Micro rings should only ever be removed by a professional hair extension specialist.

Tape 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 to the attachment. They may also begin to fold and matt with prolonged wear. This 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 in 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 are often referred to as hot fusion extensions. They 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, 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.

  • 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 aid 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 Extensions

Weave-in extensions are applied using a needle and thread. Cornrows will be created in your hair that the extension can then be sewn to. 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 infested 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.

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

Want to find out more? Book in for a free consultation with one of our expert hair extension specialists.

Leave a Reply