Exploring Different Types of Hair Extensions

Researching hair extensions can be quite overwhelming. When you make the decision to take the hair extension plunge, the information comes at you fast. It's hard to decide which direction works best for you. Begin sorting through all the information by getting familiar with the different types of hair extensions. There are four different types: clip-in, tape-in, fusion and microlink.

Clip-in Hair Extensions

These are a new version of the wefted hair extensions. The clips are sewn to the wefted hair, allowing them to attach and remove quickly. Toupee or butterfly clips are often used because they are strong and flexible. Snap the clip one way to lock it, the other way to unlock it. Industry standard clip-in hair extensions come in a classic 8 piece wefted set with a variety of different clips. These are the best choice for hair extensions. And, of course, Milani Hair is the best choice for clip in hair extensions!

Tape-in Hair Extensions

A tape-in hair extension includes a base with medical grade adhesive tape which attaches to the hair. This base varies in shape, size and material. These extensions are also called seamless extensions. These extensions last up to six weeks and are good for fine or thin hair.

Fusion Hair Extensions

These are also called Strand by Strand extensions. This process is achieved by attaching 25-30 individual hair strands with a variety of different bonding agents. Full length applications might require 200 or more fusion bonds. Applications can last from 2 to 4 hours. The glue is applied through hot or cold fusion. After the fusion has been applied, it is referred to as a "bond".

Microlink Extensions

These are also called Loc extensions, locks, or microcylinder. This idea is based on a similar idea as the fusion extensions. The system consists of small tubes or cylinder rings made from aluminum or copper. This is why it is called the microlink or lock. The links are painted different colors to be less detectable in the hair. The links are supposed to match the hair to which they are attached. They also come in different sizes to match different hair densities. The process happens through attaching 25 to 30 individual hair strands through the microlink. The real hair strand is held with a rubber tip or a hard hot glue tip. Full length applications could require more than 200 microlinks. Application requires 2 to 4 hours of time. The links are often rubber lined to create a buffer between the metal and the hair. If the hair is tipped with hard glue, the rubber is unnecessary. If the hair has rubber tips, then the rubber lining is needed.