Extensions untangled

Is picking the right type making your head hurt? Here’s our definitive guide…

MICRO RINGS AS SEEN ON JOSIE!

Say what? Tiny metal rings flattened around your hair and the extension strand, sealing them together. Best for: People with naturally thick hair. Although discreet, they’re more likely to peek through finer hair than micro-bonds (see below). Downsides: You’re more likely to feel them when lying down or touching your head. People with oilier hair find they can slip down the hair shaft – not always a bad thing according to some experts (see ‘Damage limitation,’ on the previous page). You’ll love them because: There’s no glue or heat involved, so the hair can be reused with only a three-to-four-monthly refit required. Kinder to your hair and your bank balance.

MICRO BONDS

Say what? Keratin resin (a hair-friendly, glue-like substance) moulded into tiny bonds around your hair and the extension strand. Some extensions come pre-bonded, but the hand-bonded method offers a more bespoke service, as stylists can adjust each strand perfectly to your own varying hair density. Best for: People with naturally fine hair. They’re almost undetectable.

Downsides: The removal is messier and longer, with acetone applied to the keratin bond so it can be crushed into a powder and brushed out. This process also means the hair can’t be reused, so that’s brand-new hair every three-to-four months – pricey.

You’ll love them because: This is the most discreet method by far, even in super-fine hair.

TAPES

Say what? Larger strips of hair attached to the root using medical-grade tape. Best for: Those lacking budget and time, or not wanting to commit to one of the more long-term, high-maintenance methods. Downsides: They need to be removed or readjusted every six-to-eight weeks. You’ll love them because: They’re quick and easy to apply and remove, low-budget and reusable.

WEAVES

Say what? A bundle of extensions (also known as a weft) sewn into the wearer’s natural hair, which has been braided against the scalp. Best for: Thick, coarse or Afro hair. Downsides: Braids that are too tight, heavy-duty bonding glue and heavy wefts can all cause long-term damage to the hair follicle. Reinstallations are required roughly every eight weeks to avoid the weight of the weft pulling on the natural hair regrowth. You’ll love them because: They’re often seen as a protective style, giving the natural hair a break during harsh winter months. They also aid the transition from relaxed to natural hair without damaging daily styling.