Clip-ins VS Permanent Hair Extensions: Which one is right for you?
Hair Extensions come in many variations and are used to solve a multitude of hair concerns. Whether you are wanting to thicken your hair up, make it longer, add a change of color or even just glam up for a special event, extensions are the answer. But, did you know that you can actually have them applied for a number of weeks before needing to remove them?
Not all types of course, but there are options out there for those of you that are looking for a more long term solution. In todays blog we are going to explore in depth the differences between temporary clip-in extensions and permanent to help you decide which type is right for you and your lifestyle.
What is the difference between Permanent and Clip-in Hair Extensions?
Permanent hair extensions are wefts or individual strands of human hair that are attached to your own hair for weeks and in some cases months before being removed or repositioned. They require less daily styling than Clip-in options and have a far more natural finish however more care needs to be taken when looking after them and they usually cost more for the initial application.
Clip-In hair extensions are a temporary hair extension method that are applied and removed on the same day and do not require professional help to put in or remove, this type is ideal for people who only want to use hair extensions on special occasions or for events only.
- Permanent Hair Extensions:
- Tape Hair Extensions
- I-Tip/Stick Tip Hair Extensions
- Nano Hair Extensions
- Hair Weft/Weave Extensions
- Micro-Ring/Loop Hair Extensions
- U-Tip/Nail-Tip Hair Extensions
- Temporary and Clip-In Hair Extensions
- Clip-In Hair Extensions
- Wrap around Ponytails
- Clip-In Fringes
Permanent Hair Extensions
Even though applying Clip-In hair extensions or hair pieces is not extremely difficult, it does take a little practice and for some of us its too time consuming to fit into our morning hair regime. Many people are also not super confident in doing their own hair so applying their own hair extensions can feel like a chore that they could do without. The good news is you can still have all the benefits of hair extensions without needing to do them yourself! With permanent hair extensions they are applied professionally to your hair and left in for 4-6 weeks at a time without needing to be removed in between. Result!
The initial application of permanent hair extensions takes a lot longer than temporary Clip-ins, it can range from 30 mins to 4 hours depending on the amount and which method you are going with. This may seem like a long time however it’s a one-off application that will last you for weeks as apposed to an everyday task.
Another factor to consider is the cost of this type of hair extension. The cost of the hair does not include the application service price which again will differ depending on the time it takes to apply them and where you have them done. After 4-6 weeks you will need to return to your hair stylist for a maintenance appointment to check your extensions or reposition them which will also come at a cost, however this is cheaper than your initial appointment as it does not include the hair price.
Almost all permanent hair extension types are able to be reused so although the upfront cost is more its actually pretty cost effective as good quality hair can last you up to a year if looked after well!
Due to their smaller size and the freedom of placement Permanent hair extensions have a far more natural finish than clip-in options. Not only are they easier to hide in your own hair but they sit in more rows giving a natural layered effect that can then be shaped into your own hair to look like your own hair. Clip-Ins or Hair Pieces tend to have larger seams and attachments (clips) which can be very tricky to disguise in fine hair.
FUN FACT: Individual hair extensions when applied will mimic the natural pattern of your hair when left to air dry. If you have naturally wavy hair the hair extensions will set into this movement alongside your hair! So there’s no need to worry about styling on holiday when you want to leave your hair naturally wavy.
For those of us that have highlighted hair or different tones throughout its a lot easier to color match when using permanent hair extensions as you have the freedom to order smaller packs. On many occasions a stylist will use 2-3 different colors on one hair to complement and match the clients hair color perfectly, this isn’t always possible with temporary hair extensions as the sections are much larger and the shades a pre-mixed.
You will also need to put a little more effort into looking after your hair when you have Permanent hair extensions attached. Although the hair is human it has been removed from its original root so all the natural oils and nutrients it needs to survive and stay healthy are gone, this means the hair will need extra protection and special products to stay in good condition. The good news is everything you need to keep your hair extensions in shape you can find right here at Cliphair at great affordable prices! We’ve also provided a fantastic care guide below of exactly how you can keep your hair extensions healthy and what you need to use.
Now you know the commitment that goes into having Permanent Hair Extensions we’ve explained each method below in pros and cons and who they are suitable for to make your choice even easier!
Tape Hair Extensions Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to hide
- Least damaging, kinder to the hair
- Suitable for all hair types including fine/thin
- Quick and Easy application
- Cheaper application
- Super Secure, very unlikely to lose any between applications.
- Reusable
Cons
- Not great for customers who wear their hair up
- Re-sticking the tapes can be tricky and time consuming, we prefer to use new hair each time
- -Removal can be a little messy
For even more information on Tape Hair Extensions, check out our Blog “Everything you need to know about Tape Hair Extensions”
I-Tip/Stick Tip Hair Extensions Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Easy to hide
- Can be placed near hairline
- Perfect for customers wanting to wear hair up
- Very natural finish
- Suitable for normal to thick hair
- Super cost effective, can be reused many times
- No heat or glue needed for application
- Easy to reuse and reposition
Cons
- Expensive application
- - Long application time
- Not suitable for very thin hair
Nano Hair Extensions Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smallest most discreet method on the market today
- Suitable for all hair types especially thin/fine hair
- No heat or glue needed to a
- Easy removal and reposition
- Super cost effective, can be reused many times
- Very natural finish
- Can be used to create fringes
- Lose between 12-15 between applications One of the least damaging
Cons
- Long application time
- Expensive Application - Long application time
- Lose between 12-15 between applications One of the least damaging
For even more information on I-Tips/Stick tip Hair Extensions, check out our Blog “Pre-bonded Hair Extensions 101”
Hair Weft/Weave Hair Extensions Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Many methods to apply, very versatile
- Quick and easy application
- Cheaper option
- Great for thick hair and big transformations
- No heat or Glue needed for application
- Easy removal and application
- Super cost effective, can be reused many times
- Super secure
Cons
- Not great for customers who wear their hair up
- Quite heavy so not suitable for customers with thin/fine hair
- More difficult to hide
For even more information on Hair Wefts/Weaves, check out our Blog “Hair Wefts and Weaves all you need to know”
Micro-Ring/Loop Hair Extensions Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Easy and Quick application
- Cheaper application method and product
- No heat or glue used in application
- Easy removal
- No heat or Glue needed for application
- Perfect for customers wanting to wear hair up
- Natural finish
Cons
- Not suitable for very thin hair
- Cannot be reused
- Lose between 12-15 between applications
For even more information on Micro Loops/Rings, check out our Blog "6 Reasons to Get Micro Loop Hair Extensions/ Micro Ring Extensions"
U-Tips/Nail Tips Hair Extensions Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Super secure, unlikely to lose any between applications
- Can be placed close to hairline
- Natural finish
- eGood for peopl who wear their hair up
- Long lasting, least maintenance needed
- Perfect for customers wanting to wear hair up
- Suitable for normal, healthy to thick hair
Cons
- Heat applied method, not as good for the hair
- Long application
- Expensive application method
- Not suitable for all hair types
What are the best Clip-In Hair Extensions?
Clip-in Hair Extensions or Hair pieces are the perfect solution for anyone looking to enhance their hair occasionally or for special events. They can be worn everyday if preferred however unlike permanent options they can be removed at ease so you have the freedom to change up your look as you please and experiment without the commitment.
With a little practice most Clip-ins and Hair pieces can be applied to your hair in under 5-10 minutes, comparing that to sitting for hours in the salon we understand why they are so popular! The development of Clip-Ins over the years have also brought new and even more discreet options meaning they are easier to hide in even the finest of hair.
The disadvantage of Clip-In hair extensions for some people is that they have to apply them themselves, finding time to add extensions into the daily hair routine can be tricky and not everyone feels comfortable with hair styling. Here at Cliphair we have tons of tutorials on how to apply and blend clip-ins in with your own hair to help you build your skill, after watching our guides you’ll be applying your own hair extensions in no time at all and at ease! See below for a quick and easy How to video of a Double Weft Full Head Clip-In application.
Clip-ins also tend to be a lot cheaper in comparison to permanent options, as there is no application fee needed the price you pay for the hair is the only payment you need to make. Permanent hair extensions also need to be applied professionally so there is a price on top of the cost of the hair along with monthly maintenance appointments.
Not only are they kinder to your bank account but they are also easier to look after, as the hair is not normally used on a daily basis it does not need to be washed as regularly. As a general rule we recommend washing human clip-in extensions every 10-15 uses to keep the hair in tip top condition.
As Clip-ins and Hair Pieces tend to be bought by the customer you may not have a consultation before purchasing them. For this reason, its super important to do your research and make sure that the product you are choosing is suitable for your hair type.
Clip-ins tend to be heavier and bulkier than Permanent hair extensions they can add more tension to the hair and be more difficult to hide, choosing the right set will not only look far better but will also be better for your precious hair. All good hair extension suppliers should offer a FREE and honest advice service to help you find your perfect set, Here at Cliphair we have a team of dedicated experts ready and waiting to help you with any advice and guidance you might need. To get in touch simply click here!
Now you know a little bit more about Clip-in hair extensions and hair pieces we’ve explained each type below and who they are suitable for to make your choice even easier!
What are Full Head Clip-in Hair Extensions?
Full Head Remy Clip in Human Hair Extensions - Ice Blonde
Full head Clip-in sets usually come in either 8 or 5 different sized pieces with small metal silicone lined clips attached. Full heads take a little more time to apply as there are more pieces however the results tend to have a more natural and blended finish compared to one pieces. You also have the freedom to only use the sections that you need and can easily remove any that have been placed incorrectly. For finer haired customer full head sets are best as the weight of the extensions are evenly distributed around the head rather than all on one strip of your hair.
What are One Piece Clip-in Hair Extensions?
Darkest Brown (#2) Quad Weft Clip In One Piece Hair Extensions
The beauty of One Piece Clip-Ins is the speed in which you can put them in, they literally are made from one strip of hair so they are applied in minutes! By far the easiest and quickest of all hair extensions this type is extremely popular. The only downfall is due to all the weight of the hair being on one section they tend to be on the heavier side meaning they aren’t always suitable for thin or very fine hair. If your hair is medium to thick and your looking for a super fast volume boost or transformation then a one piece is your go-to!
how to use clip in hair extensions for a ponytail?
Clip-in Ponytail hair extensions are basically ready made Ponytails that are quickly attached to your own hair. They are used as a DIY enhancement to either add thickness, length or color to all sorts of hair up styles.
You can find many varieties on the market today including human, synthetic and pre-styled pieces depending on the look you are trying to achieve and your budget. As they are quite heavy for very fine haired or thin hair customers you will want to go for a lighter piece that is no more than 80 grams.
How to Use a Clip In Bang?
Check out our quick and easy video below on how to put in a clip in fringe.
Our Clip-In Bangs is the mother of all fast transformations! 9/10 of us once in our life have wondered what life with a fringe would be like but don’t want to take the leap and cut our hair. Well with a clip-in fringe you can see exactly what it’ll be like without needing to make any sort of commitment at all!
As its so lightweight its also suitable for all hair types including fine and thin hair and is also a great cover up for receding hairlines or broken baby hairs.
It can take a few try’s and some styling to find the perfect position which some find too much of a faff, however we think if you persevere this product really is a special one!
Darkest Brown Clip In Fringe (#2)
Overall, there are plenty of reasons for choosing either Permanent or Temporary Hair Extensions it really does depend on your lifestyle, what look you are wanting to achieve and your hair type. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages and it is your choice what matters most to you when it comes to your hair extensions. The great news is there is a type and solution for everyone in todays world so making your decision has never been so easy!
Here at Cliphair we have a team of dedicated hair experts that are ready and waiting to help you along your hair extensions journey! If after reading this Guide you still have questions feel free to get in touch.
Email – Advice@Cliphair.com
Phone – 1-855-207-0165 (9.30am - 4.30pm)
Or if you’d prefer you can DM us on our Social channels by using the links below
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