Are you new to hair extensions and want to try them out? Or maybe you’re a stylist who wants to expand their hair extension application methods? Whatever the reason you ended up here, you’re about to get the ultimate guide to the different types of hair extension methods!
At Big Kizzy, we specialize in salon-quality products for all of the most popular hair extension methods. With so many options, there’s a lot to learn! We’ve compiled a quick cheat sheet for the top types of hair extensions, along with the pros and cons of each. Get ready to take notes!
The Most Popular Hair Extension Application Methods Explained
From looking at hair extension examples online to researching every detail, we know you’ve done it all! Whether you’re a professional stylist or an extension enthusiast, we’re giving you the lowdown on the most popular hair extension methods. That way, you can walk into your next salon appointment (or DIY session!) feeling totally confident.
Tape In Extensions
Tape in extensions come in individual pre-taped wefts that are about 1 to 2 inches wide, and it typically takes around 30 to 40 pieces for a full head of coverage. Each extension is applied by sandwiching a thin section of the natural hair between two wefts using adhesive tape tabs.
Pros:
-
Lightweight and comfortable to wear
-
Lay flat against the head for a natural look
-
Works well with fine or thin hair
-
Relatively quick application
-
Can be reused with fresh tape
-
Both single-sided and double-sided tape options available
Cons:
-
Require regular maintenance every 6–8 weeks
-
Adhesive can weaken with certain oils or products
-
Not ideal for very thick or coarse hair
-
Need to be careful during washing to avoid loosening the tape
Tape Weft Extensions
Tape weft extensions come in wider wefts that are applied in rows across the head. Like tape ins, they use adhesive tape for application (either tape rolls or pre-cut strips), and a remover solution is used to take them out.
Pros:
-
Combines the volume of weft extensions with easy tape application
-
Quicker application than many other methods
-
Great for adding serious thickness and fullness
-
Can be DIY-friendly with the right tools
-
Easy removal with remover solution
Cons:
-
Wider wefts may be harder to conceal on finer hair
-
Requires maintenance and retaping over time
-
Less customizable placement than individual tape-in pieces
-
Not ideal for very short hair
Beaded Weft Extensions
Beaded weft extensions have tiny silicone-lined beads sewn along each weft, which are clamped into place using hair extension pliers. The wefts lie flat against the scalp with the beads hidden underneath your natural hair. No heat or adhesive is involved in the application process, so it’s one of the hair extension least damaging methods.
Pros:
-
No heat or adhesive required
-
Reusable extensions
-
Beads are discreetly hidden under natural hair
-
Secure hold with a natural, flexible feel
-
Great for medium to thick hair
Cons:
-
Can take 2–4 hours to apply
-
Requires a professional stylist for best results
-
Not recommended for very fine or thin hair
-
Regular maintenance appointments needed to move beads up as hair grows
Sew In Weft Extensions
Sew ins start by braiding the natural hair into cornrows, then wefts are sewn directly into the braids using a needle and thread. There are a few different sew in hair extension methods to choose from, including a full sew in, a partial sew in, and an invisible sew-in.
Pros:
-
Very secure and long-lasting (weeks to months)
-
No adhesives or heat tools needed
-
Multiple style variations to choose from
-
Perfect for thick, coarse, or regular hair types
-
Can add significant volume and length
Cons:
-
Not ideal for fine or thin hair
-
Can feel heavy or tight, especially right after application
-
Requires braiding beforehand, which adds time
-
Natural hair underneath needs proper care to avoid buildup
-
Removal and reapplication can be time-consuming
Keratin Bond Extensions
Keratin bond extensions (also called fusion, bonded, flat-tip, I-tip, or U-tip extensions) come in individual strands rather than wefts. Each strand has a keratin glue tip that’s melted and fused to a small section of your natural hair close to the root using a heat tool.
Pros:
-
Extremely natural look and movement
-
Long-lasting (can stay in for 3–6 months with proper care)
-
Individual strands allow for very customizable placement
-
Can be used on most hair types (especially medium to thick)
-
Virtually undetectable when applied correctly
Cons:
-
One of the more time-consuming hair extension application methods
-
Requires heat for application, which can cause damage if not done carefully
-
More expensive than other methods
-
Removal requires a professional and a special remover solution
-
Not recommended for very fine or damaged hair
Stock Up on Salon-Quality Products for Your Extensions
No matter which of the hair extension methods you go with, they all have their pros and cons. It comes down to personal preference and what works best for you and your hair. For stylists and extension DIYers, we have all of the tools and accessories you need at Big Kizzy! Find all of the essentials on our website for extension application, removal, and maintenance.