Which Hair Extensions Are Right For You?
If you have considered getting extensions but feel completely lost where to start or what type of extensions you should get, you are not alone. Extensions are not a one size fits all and there are so many different types of extension hair and methods to cater to each and every hair type, goal and lifestyle.
There are tons of extension hair types and install methods out there. If you are new around here, my top favorite hair extensions options are Halos and Invisible Bead Extensions. Both have their pros and cons so I am going to break down each option to help you choose which is best for you.
Before I get into the whys and why nots of halos and IBE, I want to make sure you know some of the terms when it comes to hair extensions, because it can be super confusing when you start looking into hair extensions.
Wefts - these are are individual pieces of hair that are used for sew in extensions. there are hand tied wefts, machine tied wefts, and the latest technology, genius wefts. Machine tied wefts are the most cost efficient, however are very bulky which can be uncomfortable or itchy. Because they don’t lay as close to the head as hand tied or genius wefts, they can appear less natural and give away that you are wearing extensions, which no one wants that.
Aside from wefts there are other extensions hair types like - itip, ktip, and tape ins & clip ins
Method - a common term you will probably hear is ‘beaded weft’. This is not an actual weft like we just talked about, but it’s actually an install method. Beaded weft is also the same thing as beaded row. Which is many different methods rows are created either by beads (beaded row), braids, thread, or a combination of those. Invisible Bead Extensions are a beaded row method.
The reasons why Halos and Invisible Bead Extensions are the extension methods I recommend is because one of these methods will work for everyone, prevent damage to the natural hair, and will give the most natural looking, and longest lasting results.
Halo Extensions
I love recommending halos for anyone looking added thickness or length that can be taken off at night, to shower, and worn when they choose. Halos are great for special occasions or for daily wear. Some find taking it off and putting it on every time you wear it as a “pro” for the halo and others find it as a “con” because they prefer not having to take that extra step in getting their hair ready. This really just depends on your lifestyle and personality when it comes to the ability of taking off your extensions or not.
Halos can add length, however since its a single piece, it doesn’t blend as well as IBE extensions where you might have 2 or 3 rows. If you hair is feathered at the ends and isn’t blunt, a halo will work great for you, however if you have thick natural hair and are looking for length, a halo might not be the best option for you.
Invisible Bead Extensions
IBE extensions can really work for just about everyone. The only time IBE will not be a fit, is if you are needing to cover up thinning on the top of your head. In that case a Halo Fall is your best option. Aside from that, Invisible Bead Extensions are more customizable than a Halo because the rows can be placed slightly differently for everyone depending on the goal and existing hair. Because IBE extensions are a sew in, beaded weft extension, they can not be removed and will need to be reinstalled every 6-8 weeks as your natural hair continues to grow.
There is also some small home care steps that you will need to do to take care of your scalp, natural hair, and extension hair with IBE such as brushing, blow drying, and applying oil. Is IBE more maintenance than a Halo? Yes. Is it a lot of maintenance, not really.
I hope this is helpful when decided which extensions are right for you. Whether you are still unsure, or know exactly which extension option is right for you, book an in person consultation to get your dream hair!