If you’re new to hair extensions, putting them in can feel a little tricky at first. But with some practice and a few easy tips, you’ll be able to do it in no time! Whether you’re using clip-ins, tape-ins, or other types of hair extensions, this guide will walk you through the process so you can get the look you want with ease.
1. Choosing the Right Extensions
Before you start, make sure you have the right type of extensions for your hair and style.
- Clip-ins: Great for beginners because they’re easy to apply and remove. You can put them in yourself without needing help.
- Tape-ins: These are more permanent and usually require a hairstylist to apply. They last longer but aren’t as easy to remove.
- Sew-ins: These require your hair to be braided and the extensions sewn in. A stylist is usually needed for this method.
For this guide, we’ll focus on clip-ins, the easiest and most beginner-friendly option.
2. Prepping Your Hair
Before putting in the extensions, it’s important to prep your hair to ensure the extensions blend seamlessly.
- Wash and dry your hair: Make sure your hair is clean and dry before applying extensions. Dirty or greasy hair can make it harder for the clips to grip.
- Section your hair: To make it easier, section your hair into layers. Start by parting your hair just above the nape of your neck, and clip the top half of your hair up and out of the way.
- Brush your hair: Brush through your natural hair to remove any tangles. This will make it easier to blend the extensions later.
3. Attaching Clip-In Extensions
Now that your hair is prepped, it’s time to attach the extensions.
- Start with the widest weft: The widest piece of your clip-in set goes at the back of your head. Place it just above the nape where you’ve sectioned your hair.
- Secure the clips: Open the clips and attach them close to the roots of your hair. Press down to secure them in place. If you need extra grip, you can tease the roots slightly or use a bit of hairspray.
- Work your way up: Once the first piece is secure, release another layer of hair and repeat the process, attaching smaller wefts as you move up the head. Keep going until you’ve reached the top layers.
- Blend the hair: Once all the wefts are in place, use a brush or your fingers to blend the extensions with your natural hair. You can curl or straighten the hair together for a seamless look.
4. Styling the Extensions
Once the clip in hair extensions are in, it’s time to style!
- Curl or straighten: Depending on the look you’re going for, you can use a curling iron or straightener to style the extensions along with your natural hair.
- Add volume: If you want extra volume, try backcombing or adding a bit of texturizing spray to your roots.
- Blending is key: The secret to natural-looking extensions is blending. Make sure there’s no visible line between your natural hair and the extensions.
5. Taking Them Out
At the end of the day, it’s just as important to remove your clip-ins properly to avoid damaging your hair.
- Unclip gently: Start by unfastening the clips from your hair, working from the top layer down to the nape of your neck. Be careful not to pull on your natural hair.
- Store them properly: Once they’re out, brush the extensions and store them in a safe place, like a storage box or a hanger made for extensions.
Conclusion:
Putting in hair extensions might seem complicated at first, but with some practice, it becomes second nature. Follow these steps, and soon enough, you’ll be able to switch up your hairstyle quickly and effortlessly, giving you the length and volume you’ve always wanted!