When it comes to adding length and volume to thin hair, there are a variety of extension methods available. Tape extensions have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their seamless and natural appearance. However, other methods such as clip-ins, sew-ins, micro rings and fusion extensions also have their own unique benefits. In this article, we will compare tape extensions with other extension methods to help you determine which is best.
What are clip-in hair extensions?
Clip-in hair extensions are a temporary and convenient way to add length and volume to thin hair. These extensions are made up of individual wefts of hair that are attached to small clips, which make them easy to install and remove. One of the main benefits of clip-in extensions is their versatility, as they come in different styles such as a stranded clip-in hair pony or a stranded curly clip in one piece. They are also available in different formats like synthetic, which are pre-styled, or human hair, which can be treated similarly to your hair using heat.
What are weft hair extensions?
Weft hair extensions are a great option for those with thin hair who want to add volume and length. These extensions are made up of long strips of hair that can be attached to the natural hair in various ways, such as sewing, glueing or clipping. Weft extensions can be made from human hair and are available in a variety of textures and colours to match your natural hair. They come in different weights (ranging from 50 grams to 300 grams), and you can purchase them from a salon professional who will help you with colour matching and source them from a trade supplier. The salon professional will then fit them for you, usually by cutting the weft to size, attaching micro beads to your hair, and sewing the weft of hair through the micro beads to secure it to the scalp. This will require maintenance every 6-8 weeks.
Weft extensions are a great option for those looking for a fuller look and feel. They are more long-lasting than clip-ins as they are securely attached to the natural hair. However, weft extensions can be more costly and time-consuming to install and maintain. The fitting costs for weft extensions can range from £55-£100.
What are fusion bond hair extensions?
Fusion bond hair extensions are a reliable way to add length and volume to your hair for a long period. This method involves attaching small strands of hair to your natural hair using a keratin-based adhesive. With proper care and maintenance, fusion bond extensions can last for several months and can be a great solution for thin hair.
One of the main advantages of fusion bond extensions is their durability. The keratin bonds are strong and can withstand the test of time. However, upon removal, you may experience more hair breakage with this method along with matting and twisting if you haven't provided good aftercare. Typically, these extensions last for about 4-6 months before being removed and replaced.
To get fusion bond extensions, you would need to visit a salon, where they will match the colour of the extensions to your natural hair colour and order the correct shade. The installation process can take up to 3-4 hours for a full-head application and can be quite expensive. However, the higher initial cost covers the maintenance cost of what you would pay with other methods. The cost of this fitting method usually ranges between £200-£400.
What are micro ring hair extensions?
Microring hair extensions can be a great option for those with thin hair who want to add length and volume. This method involves attaching small sections of hair to the natural hair using tiny metal rings. Micro ring extensions are semi-permanent and can last for several months with proper care.
One major advantage of micro ring extensions is that they are gentle on the natural hair, as no heat or glue is used during the application process. However, one disadvantage is that some people may be allergic to metal and may experience irritation with this method. Additionally, microring extensions can be uncomfortable to sleep on after fitting and can cause tension and matting if not cared for correctly.
To keep microring extensions looking their best, they should be maintained every 8 weeks with a push-up and every 16 weeks with a bead replacement. The installation process can take around 3-4 hours and cost between £200-£400 in fitting time. It is important to have them applied by a salon professional.
What are tape in hair extensions?
Tape hair extensions are a popular and effective way to add volume and length to thin hair. These extensions involve attaching small wefts of hair to the natural hair using adhesive tape. One of the benefits of tape extensions is that they are quick and easy to install, taking only around an hour for a full-head application. The adhesive used is gentle on the natural hair and can last for 6-8 weeks. Tape extensions lie flat on the scalp and are lightweight, invisible and instantly comfortable.
The cost of this hair extension method can vary depending on the number of tapes required, with prices ranging from £50 to £200. To get the right colour match, you would need to visit a salon and have the hair fitted by a professional. After installation, the hair would require maintenance every 4-8 weeks, depending on the client's natural hair strength and lifestyle. Tapes can help make unruly hair more manageable while also protecting the hair from excessive heat.
The difference between other extension methods on thin hair?
When selecting an extension method for thin hair, it's crucial to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Weft extensions offer a thicker look and are durable, but they can be more time-consuming and expensive to install. Fusion bond extensions are long-lasting and resilient, lasting for several months with proper care. However, they may cause hair breakage upon removal if not maintained correctly.
Microring extensions are gentle on natural hair and can last several months with proper maintenance, but they can cause twisting and matting if not cared for properly. Meanwhile, tape-in hair extensions are more affordable, faster to apply, and durable. If installed and maintained correctly, they often cause no damage.
For fine hair, tapes are the best option. Each tape strand weighs only 4 grams per section, which is a compatible weight for the hair. In comparison, a weft of hair could weigh 50 grams and be on a small section across the back of the head, creating tension and pain. You can achieve the same look using multiple tapes across multiple areas with even weight distribution on the client's hair. Tapes provide the least tension to the hair and scalp. They grow out super flat and tidy, leaving less risk of matting and breakage. They are comfortable straight after fitting and cause no pain or tightness when installed, unlike a weft.
When compared to micro rings or bonds, tapes may weigh less, around 2 grams per strand. However, to create the same effect as a 4cm tape, you may need to use 6-8 micro rings or bonds. These methods are attached to less hair and have the opportunity to twist when being worn, creating tension, hair loss and breakage. There is also a risk of reaction to metal and bonds requiring less maintenance, leaving your clients wearing them for longer without salon visits. Upon removing these methods, you may see lots of hair shedding, potential matting, and breakage, especially for fine hair.
Conclusion
Suppose you have fine hair and want to enhance its appearance while maintaining its quality. In that case, we recommend trying Invisible Tape Hair Extensions by North Professional Hair or the Invisible Mini Tape Hair Extensions. These tapes can thicken and add length and volume to your hair while remaining undetectable. You can find a qualified professional who offers this service using our salon locator. North is committed to providing the highest quality remy graded hair to our salon professionals, ensuring that the money you invest in purchasing your hair is worthwhile and will last you 9-12 months with proper salon aftercare.
