For those first considering long-term hair solutions, semi-permanent hair installation can be a bit scary. The words ‘glue’, ‘tape,’ and ‘threading,’ or just the sight of the heating tool is enough to send some people running.
In this blog post, we’ll ease your nerves as we go through our various semi-permanent installation methods. The process will be a bit uncomfortable, but it’s not as painful as many believe it to be if you get them professionally installed. Semi-permanent hair extensions are the best way to create long-lasting volume, length, and thickness without looking unnatural. From tape-ins to weft hair extension installation, here are our four methods.
Tape-In
Tape-in extensions are one of the most popular types of hair extensions, as they’re easy to attach and lightweight—they feel almost as natural as they look!
Tape-in extensions are practically undetectable. The process involves ‘sandwiching’ sections of your natural hair between two skin wefts, which typically takes about an hour, that’s it! No worrying about your hair for another 6-8 weeks when you’ll need to have your tape-in extensions corrected and reapplied to cover regrowth, if necessary.
The quick installation time, usually only an hour or so, is just one of many reasons tape-in extensions are such a popular choice. They’re fantastic for maintaining healthy hair and are suitable for virtually all hair types. If cared for properly, they can be reapplied during maintenance, saving you from spending money on a new set every time.
Nano Tip
Whether you’re looking to bring some volume to thin hair, add luxurious length to short hair, or even just add some stylish highlights—nano tip hair extensions are the way to go.
These extensions are smaller individual locks of hair, attached by feeding your natural hair through the tiny beads. The extension tips are aligned inside the bead, close to your scalp, and then clamped closed with extension pliers. While a tiny bit uncomfortable at first — it’s not painful, as there is no glue or heating involved.
With these fabulous extensions, you’ll be in and out of the salon in no more than 3 hours, and you won’t be back for approximately another 3 months! With proper care and professional application, nano tips can be reapplied to give you thicker hair for a low price.
Hot Fusion
When people think of permanent hair extensions, they’re usually thinking of hot fusion U-Tip extensions—but it sounds a lot worse than it really is. After 2-3 hours in the chair, you’ll be left with long, gorgeous locks for up to 6 months if cared for properly.
Now, the part you’ve been waiting for—the process. The use of heat is an intimidating idea, especially when used so close to something as fragile as hair and the scalp. The keratin U-tip bonds are lined with silicone, which creates a barrier to provide extra protection for your natural hair. Your hair is placed between the U-tips and sealed with a heating tool to bond with your hair. These bonds are close to the roots but leave enough space for some movement of your natural hair—no headaches, straining, or pain after installation.
If you’re interested in durable extension that will last a long time, this method of installation is one of the most effective. You should never attempt to try hot fusion extension installation at home — leave it to the professionals for the best results.
Micro-Ring & Hand-Tied Weft
Micro-ring & hand-tied weft hair extension installation is a faster process than strand-by-strand methods, only taking around 2 hours. Hand-tied wefts are sewn together by hand, creating thinner tracks that sit flat against the head and a seamless look. Hand-tied wefts shed a lot less than machine-tied, meaning they can be re-used up to 3 times!
Weft hair extensions are installed horizontally against the head, taking sections of your natural hair and the weft hair, and pulling them through the micro-rings. The rings are clamped to secure the weft extensions in place. The horizontal strips of weft hair are placed in sections, about 2cm apart from one another, and continued until almost the top of the head.
Just like maintaining your natural hair, with a trip to the hairdresser every so often, hand-tied wefts require professional touch-ups around every 4-6 weeks.
Create Superior Hair with Semi-Permanent Extensions
Superior Hair stocks a wide range of hair extensions for all styles! If you’re interested in achieving your dream hairstyle, adding some highlights, length, or volume, consider semi-permanent extensions. Since it’s a bit of a commitment, we provide free in-store consultations to help you find the best solution for your hair goals. Shop hair extensions online at Superior Hair and find your new look.
