If you've ever looked in the mirror and wished your hair was longer, fuller, or just a little different, you're not alone. Hair extensions are a super popular way to switch up your look without making any big changes to your natural hair. With so many options out there, it can feel a little overwhelming to figure out what’s what. That’s why we’re giving you a simple breakdown of the different types of hair extensions available today. And yes — whether you heard about them from a friend or stumbled upon a brand like marvelextensions, knowing your choices is the first step.
Clip-in Extensions
These are the most beginner-friendly type of extensions. Clip-ins come as wefts of hair with tiny clips attached. You just clip them into your natural hair and—boom—you’ve got thicker or longer hair in minutes. They're great for special occasions or just for fun, and they can be taken out just as easily as they’re put in.
Tape-in Extensions
These are small sections of hair that come with pre-taped ends. A stylist will press them around sections of your natural hair, kind of like a sandwich. They tend to stay in place for several weeks and give a more natural look because they lie flat against your head.
Sew-in (Weave) Extensions
Sew-ins are often used for people with thick hair. The stylist braids your natural hair close to your scalp and then sews the extensions into the braids using a needle and thread. This method lasts longer, usually a month or two, but takes a bit more time and effort to put in and take out.
Fusion (Keratin Bond) Extensions
These extensions use tiny bonds made of keratin (a protein your hair already has). A stylist uses a heat tool to melt and attach the bonds strand by strand to your natural hair. They blend really well, but they take several hours to install and usually last about 3 to 4 months.
Micro-Link (Bead) Extensions
These involve small beads that hold the extensions in place. Your stylist loops your natural hair through a bead along with the extension and clamps it shut. There’s no glue or heat used, which some people prefer.
Each type has its pros and cons, so it’s good to think about your lifestyle, budget, and how long you want to keep your new look. Whether you want a short-term makeover or something longer-lasting, there’s an extension type that fits.