From Installation to Removal: How Long Do Hair Extensions Last?
From Installation to Removal: How Long Do Hair Extensions Last?
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From Installation to Removal: How Long Do Hair Extensions Last?
Hair extensions indeed are a game-changer for changing your entire look. Whether you desire adding length, volume, or a quick temporary change in the style, extensions give you the immediate fix to achieve a flawless look. In contemplating getting hair extensions, though, one of the most common questions that pops up is, how long do hair extensions last? The answer is not straightforward; the long-term longevity of your hair extensions depends on so many factors which include the type you choose, attaching methods, and care.
In this blog, we break down everything you need to know about the lifespan of hair extensions from when they're installed to when they should be removed to guarantee beautiful, healthy-looking hair without any damage or constant upkeep.
1. Different Types of Hair Extensions and their Lifespan
Not all hair extensions are created equal, and the type that you choose will significantly affect how long it will last. Here's a look at the most common types of hair extensions and how long you can expect them to last.
Clip-In Extensions: 6 to 12 Months
Clip-in extensions are great for the client who wants temporary volume or length. They're easy to apply and remove and really handy for a person who wants to wear them once in a while for some kind of special occasion. Since clip-in extensions aren't bonded to one's own natural hair, they're relatively more long-lasting than other forms if looked after properly.
How can they extend their lifespan attached to one's head?
Should be limited in the use of high heat styling because that damages the extensions and sometimes even your natural hair.
Keep at bay (cool, dry place) in order to prevent tangling or breakage.
Tape-In Extensions: 6 to 8 weeks
Tape-in hair extensions are semi-permanent and bonded to the back of your real hair using two strips of adhesive tape. Generally speaking, they last around 6 to 8 weeks since you will have to move them upwards as your real hair grows. Tape-in hair extensions can be reused, so they pay for themselves over time.
How to make them last long:
Do not use oil-based hair products since they dissolve the adhesive.
Apply for touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks not to place tension on your hair and scalp.
Sew-In (Weave) Extensions: 6 to 8 Weeks
Sew-in extensions are applied by braiding the natural hair into cornrows, then sewing in the extensions along those braids. These are ideal for thicker hair types and can last longer. They do need to be serviced every 6-8 weeks though, as your own hair is going to continue growing out of the ends and you don't want them to tangle with your own hair.
How to Extend Their Lifespan:
Keep moisturizing your scalp and hair regularly to stay healthy with your own hair as well as the extensions.
Be gentle when washing to prevent tangling and unnecessary stress on the braids.
Fusion (Keratin) Extensions: 3 to 6 Months
Fusion hair extensions utilize keratin-based glue to bond single strands of hair to your natural hair using the use of heat. They are one of the strongest types of extensions, but last about 3 to 6 months. They require professional application and removal, which is a bit pricey.
How to Extend Their Lifetime:
Avoid harsh chemicals and heat to the bonds since they can damage the keratin.
Avoid frequent shampooing of the hair to reduce tension on the bonds.
Micro-Bead Bonds: 3 to 4 Months
Micro-bead (or micro-link) extensions cling to your natural hair by attaching to it with small beads or rings, using pliers to clamp the beads shut. Usually, 3-4 months pass before they have to be adjusted or removed, depending on how fast your growth rate for your natural hair is.
Tips to Keep Them Long-Lasting:
Get them adjusted regularly to avoid a strain on your hair.
Brush your hair gently so that you do not break or loosen the beads.
2. What Determines How Long Hair Extensions Last
The type of hair extensions determines to a great extent how long they last, but there are other influencing factors that determine how long your hair lasts:
Hair Care and Maintenance
The type of care given to your hair directly determines how long you can extend the lifetime of your hair. Here are some tips on how to care for your extensions:
Proper care: These should be washed with sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. You should avoid washing the extensions too frequently because it might cause wear-and-tear on the extensions.
Gentle brushing: A soft bristle comb or a wide-toothed brush should be used on the extensions to avoid pulling and tangling. Brush them from end to root to avoid stressing the extensions in one area.
Reduce excessive heat styling: Overheating causes breakage both to your natural hair and to the extensions, so do not use a heat tool too often and never head out without spraying on some heat protectant first.
Installation and Removal
Proper installation and removal are very important in that it will determine if your extensions will last for a long time or not. Extensions that are misapplied or removed improperly can badly damage your natural hair, making it either look thinner or entirely fall out in patches.
Professional installation: Have your extensions professionally installed by a trained person who would know how to attach them properly. This ensures that no strains are applied on your natural hair and thus ensures the longest life span of your extensions.
Correct removal: Extensions that are removed in a wrong way-for example, by pulling or cutting off- can cause damage to your main hair. Thus, instead of going out on this limb, take care to visit a professional for safe removal, in case you do not want breakage.
Personal Life and Lifestyle
Daily routines and lifestyles also determine the longer term for your extension. To illustrate, if you swim frequently, chlorine and saltwater can affect the weakening of your extensions' bonds; hence, their lifespan will decrease. Alternatively, excessive exposure to direct sunlight can dry out your extensions as well as your natural hair.
Protect it from the weather: During swimming or a day out in the sun, be sure to wear a hat when swimming or use a swim cap to prevent damage from the sun while wearing your extensions.
Be particular with your sleeping habits: Wet hair and coarseness of pillowcase can get it tangled or break when sleeping. Try a silk pillowcase or loosely twist your hair into a braid so that it does not get tangled with its own hair during rest.
3. Signs That Tell You It Is Time to Remove or Replace Your Extensions Removing and replacing your extensions depends on when you can no longer feel it is safe to keep them on. Here are a few signs that indicate it might be time to remove or replace your extensions:
Visible breakages on your natural hair: If your hair begins to break and thin out at the extension sites, it's time to take them off so that you can give your hair a break.
Loosening or slippage of extensions: If your extensions become loose and want to slide out, then it is time to tweak or replace those bonds or tapes.
Tangled or matted hair extensions: When your hair extensions become very knotty, it is probably the right time to remove or replace them.
Conclusion: How Long Do Hair Extensions Last?
Ultimately, how long hair extensions last depends on the type of extensions you get as well as the quality of their care and the health condition of your natural hair. In general, extensions can last for 6 to 12 weeks, but maintained well, some types, especially the high-quality ones, can last several months.
It is, therefore, necessary to follow the proper maintenance routine, select the best one suited for your lifestyle, and maybe seek professional help with the process of installation and removal so that the extensions may be utilized for a longer time and your natural hair can remain healthy and alive.
So whether you are rocking clip-ins for a weekend or going for longer-term extensions, like sew-ins or fusion, taking the right steps makes sure you get the most out of your investment without compromising on hair health. Report this page