Things to know before getting clip-in extensions

What are clip-in hair extensions?

Clip-in hair extensions are strips of hair weaves that are attached with pressure-sensitive clips. It's a simple and quick method to create longer and thicker hair. Clip-in hair extensions can be applied and removed from natural hair in just a few minutes. The whole wearing and removing process can easily be done at home without anyone else's help, even if you're a beginner. Moreover, it's also a damage-free way that requires very low maintenance. 

Pros and cons of clip-in hair extensions

Pros:

Quick to install and remove: Clip-in hair extensions can be installed and removed in just a few minutes. So you don't have to spend so much time wearing hair extensions. It's ideal for those who desire a quick volume boost for some special event, such as a Saturday night party or a date.

Easy to apply: Unlike sew-in weave or glue-in hair, clip-in hair extensions can be easily applied by yourself at home without using any tools or anyone else's help. It's pretty friendly for beginners.

Damage-free: The installation and removal process of clip-in hair extensions requires no glue and no heat, which makes it a safer choice than other extension methods.

Comfortable: The traditional clip-in method allows your natural hair to be left out and blended with the weaves, ensuring premium breathability and comfort for your scalp and natural hair.

Low-maintenance: Clip-in hair extensions just stay on your natural hair for temporary use. This weaving method requires almost no extra maintenance.

Affordable: With clip-in hair extensions, you don't need to pay the bill for having your hair done by a professional. Thus, it saves more than other weaving methods.

Cons:

Short duration: You'd better take off your clip-in hair extensions before heading to bed. Or the clips may tangle with your natural hair when you sleep, which can lead to discomfort on your scalp and even hair shed.

Not available for very short hair: Clip-in hair extensions are highly recommended for natural hair lengths that are longer than 4 inches to achieve a more natural blend.

Clip-in hair extensions vs. tape-in hair extensions

Both clip-in hair extensions and tape-in hair extensions are popular and safe extension methods to create fuller and longer hair. Some may not know how to choose between them. In this section, we're here to tell you about their differences so you can make an informed decision.

• Duration: Clip-in hair extensions have to be removed before sleeping while tape-ins can last on your head for about 4-6 weeks. This tape-in method saves you from having to attach extensions every morning, making it an ideal daily wear option.
• At home or salon: Clip-in hair extensions don't require any tools or assistance. Unlike clip-in hair extensions that can be easily installed by yourself at home, tape-ins are more recommended to be done by a pro in the salon.
• Maintenance: Since clip-in hair has to be removed every night before heading to bed, its short duration leads to minimal maintenance. With tape-in hair extensions, you need to stay away from shampoos that contain oil, silicone, and alcohol. And you also need to avoid applying conditioner to the tape while washing your hair.
• Irritation: If your scalp is sensitive to glue or adhesive, tape-in hair extensions might not be a suitable choice for you. You can order a sample to give it a try in advance.

When it comes to which extension method is better for you, it depends more on your lifestyle and your preferences. If you desire a more permanent hair length boost, tape-ins are more suitable for you. If you desire a temporary hair length boost that is easily done by yourself within 10 minutes, clip-ins should be a wise choice.

For more differences between clip-in hair extensions and tape-in hair extensions, click and go through our previous post: Tape-In Vs. Clip-In Extensions

Are clip-in hair extensions damaging to your hair?

No. Clip-in hair is one of the safest ways to add length and volume. With this technique, there is no need for tools, glue, or adhesive, and with proper and timely removal, it will not damage natural hair.

Who are not suitable for clip-in hair extensions?

Clip-in hair extensions are not suitable for those who desire a permanent solution.

Since clip-ins can be fitted within 10-30 minutes and have to be removed before sleeping. It's ideal for temporary use for some special events, such as a party at the weekend, a wedding, a graduation ceremony, etc.

What to consider while buying clip-in hair extensions:

Human or synthetic hair: Of these two options, human hair is always the better choice, not only for its more realistic appearance and touch but also for its lower maintenance and longer lifespan. 

Length: We recommend having your natural hair length be at least 4 inches long to achieve a more seamless appearance. For the length of the extension, be advised that curly clip-in hair extensions look shorter than straight clip-in hair extensions. If you want your hair to reach the middle of your back, opt for 20-22 inches. If you want your hair to reach your shoulders, opt for 14"-16".

Texture and color: With the clip-in method, your natural hair is exposed outside and blends in with the extensions. Thus, you should opt for hair extensions that are similar to your natural hair in texture and color to achieve a seamless result.

How to install clip-in hair extensions?

The clip-in method is perfect for those who want to maintain their natural look and just want to add extra length, thickness, and volume without using glue, tape, or sewing.

Here are some small items that are involved:

Clip-in hair extensions;

A wide-tooth comb;

A rattail comb;

Clips and elastic bands;

Hairdryer.

Step 1: Prepare your natural hair

Detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb. Thoroughly wash and condition your natural hair as you normally would. Blowing your hair on the lowest heat setting. After your natural hair is completely dry, brush again with a wide-tooth comb.

Step 2: Section your hair

Leave your natural hair out around your hairline from ear to ear and where you wish to make a part. You can simply braid the left-out sections into plaits or separate them with elastic bands or hair clips.

Create a horizontal part about 1 inch above the nape of your neck with a rattail comb. Clip up the upper section of hair and secure it on the crown with a clip. 

Step 3: Clip in hair weave

Select a clip-in hair extension of your desired length. Grab one side of the clip-in hair extension and clip it down to attach your natural hair around the line you just parted. 

Step 4: Repeat the process

Once you finish one row, undo a portion of hair from your clipped hair on the crown. Repeat sectioning your hair horizontally and applying clip-in extensions row by row until you reach the edges of the leave-out sections.

Step 5: Style your hair

Release your natural hair to cover the weaves. And the dressing process is already finished. You can use a flat iron to straighten your hair to achieve a more natural blend. Be noticed that before you apply any heat to your hair, give it a spray of heat-protector to avoid unnecessary breakage.

Here is a video tutorial on how to wear clip-in hair extensions for your reference.

How to remove clip-in hair extensions?

Step 1: Lift the natural hair on the crown to expose the weave underneath.

Step 2: Use your fingers to gently snap the clips open.

Step 3: Gently remove the clips from attaching to your natural hair, one by one.

Step 4: After you have successfully removed each clip from your hair, gently work through your hair from roots to tips with a comb.

Step 5: Lay your clip-in hair extensions on a flat table. Detangle the extensions with a comb. You can apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner or natural oil to smooth out your hair weave if it is not so dirty and doesn't need washing. Store and wait for the next use.

Dos and don'ts of clip-in hair extension care:

Dos:

• Brush your clip-in hair extensions at least twice a day, once before installation, and another after removal.
• When brushing clip-in hair extensions, secure the roots of the clip-in hair extensions with one hand, and work through your hair weaves with a comb gently to minimize tension on your hair weaves.
• Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner for your hair care routine.
• Rub a small amount of leave-in conditioner or natural oil into the hair weave to smooth it out before storing.
• Store your hair extensions on hangers or keep them in a storage bag when you don't need to use them.

Don'ts:

• Never brush your hair weaves when they are wet.
• Avoid over-styling your hair extensions. Dyeing or bleaching hair extensions can cause damage.
• Avoid applying too much heat to your hair extensions. 
• Never sleep with clip-in hair extensions on.
• Don't wash your hair extensions too often, typically no more than once a week if your extensions are not so dirty.
• Avoid getting your clip-in hair extensions wet while wearing them on or the clips may tangle with your natural hair. 

How to wash clip-in hair extensions?

Items you need to prepare in advance:

Shampoo and conditioner;

A soft towel;

A brush.

Step 1: Prepare your clip-in hair extensions

Remove your clip-in extensions from your head. Lay your clip-in hair extensions on a flat table. Secure the roots of the clip-in weaves with one hand, and gently detangle the hair weave with a wide-tooth comb to remove tangles and dirt.

Step 2: Wash your clip-in hair extensions

Grab the roots of your clip-in hair extensions, rinse under a tap, and let the water run through your hair weave from roots to tips. Absorb excess water with a soft towel. Gently massage a sulfate-free shampoo into the hair extensions. Rinse under the tap and let the water flow from roots to tips. Pat dry with a towel again.

Step 3: Condition your clip-in hair extensions

Massage hair conditioner into your hair weaves. Let the conditioner sit for 3-5 minutes. Rinse again under the tap and let the water flow from roots to tips. Pat the hair weave dry again. You can stop here or give it a deep condition by soaking it in a hair mask for about 30-60 minutes. Rinse again from roots to tips and wrap your hair weaves with a soft towel to soak up the excess water.

Step 4: Dry and store your clip-in hair extensions

After the shampoo and condition process, hang your clip-in hair extensions to let them air dry. You can store your clip-in hair extensions on hangers or keep them in an extension storage bag.

Can you wear clip-in hair extensions every day?

Yes. Clip-in hair extensions can be worn daily but must be removed before heading to bed and reinstalled before the next use. Clip-in is easy, quick, and damage-free, allowing you to slay it every day.

Can you sleep with clip-in extensions?

No. We highly suggest you remove your clip-in hair extensions before heading to bed. If you try to sleep with your clip-ins on, the clips may get tangled with your natural hair and lead to discomfort on your scalp.

Can you shower with clip-in hair extensions on your head?

Yes, of course, you can take a shower as you normally would with hair extensions installed. You just need to put on a shower cap to protect your hair weave from getting wet. But you should not wash your clip-ins when taking a shower, because wet hair may get tangled with the clips. 

Can you go swimming with clip-in hair installed?

No. You'd better take off your clip-in hair extensions before diving into the pool. Cause the wet hair may get tangled with your natural hair and the chlorine in the pool can damage your clip-in hair extensions. 

We hope you enjoy this article. If you still have any questions about clip-in hair extensions, feel free to reach our consultants online. Ula Hair specializes in providing all types of human hair extensions and human hair wigs in various colors, textures, and lengths. Click and explore our latest selection of clip-in hair extensions at the Ula Hair online hair store! 
 

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