How long can you leave hair extensions in

When you pay good money for something, one of the first questions you need to be answered is how long it will last. You worked hard for your money, so the last thing you want is to invest in some hair extensions only to find they start to fall out or look less than perfect after only a short time.

So what are hair extensions? In this article, we will take a look at some of the different types of hair extensions and give you an idea of how long they will last. We will run you through the different ways hair extensions can be attached, how long they typically last and the things you can do to keep them looking their best.

Hair extensions are real or artificial hairs that you attach to your real hair to make it appear longer, fuller and more healthy. How long they last really depends on the type of hair extensions you go for.

It also depends on the quality of the hair fibres in the extensions, the expertise with which they are attached, and the way you look after them. Read on to learn more about specific types of extensions and how you can get the most out of them.

How long do permanent hair extensions last?

Permanent hair extensions are sewn in or attached with the use of heating tools/clams. This category includes fusion hair extensions, sew in ones, microlinks, K-tips, etc.

These are a big commitment because they can last 3-4 months, but they use heat and chemicals that can be harmful to your hair.

Some sewn in extensions can last as long as 12 months, but remember that the tight cornrows that your natural hair is tied into as a base puts a great deal of stress on the hair follicles.

In short, permanent hair extensions are likely to last longer, but they can wreak havoc with your hair.

How often do extensions need to be replaced?

One important thing to remember is that, with proper care, the lifespan of any type of extensions can be increased.

You can expect to need to replace your semi permanent hair extensions, like tape ones, every 4-8 weeks, while temporary clip in ones may last 3-6 months.

Permanent hair extensions will need replacing after between 6 and 12 months, though you may want to give your hair a break from the harsh techniques used in these.

Can hair extensions last for a year?

All types of hair extensions can last as long as a year, but most will start showing their age well before this point.

Permanent hair extensions are built to last the longest, but with the right care, you can extend the life of both temporary and semi-permanent ones.

Another key factor is the quality of the hair extensions – those made from real human hair generally come at a higher cost, but they have the longer lifespan.

It isn’t straightforward to definitively tell how long extensions will last as it depends on so many factors.

5 Types Of Hair Extensions (AND How Long They Last!)

1. Clip-in hair extensions

These temporary hair extensions are easy to work with and very popular because they offer excellent versatility to change your style at will.

They are supplied in strands with clips at the base to attach to your natural roots. If you use clip-in hair extensions regularly, and you take good care of them, they can last from 3 months up to a year. This really depends on how well you care for them.

It is best to wash clip-ins with natural, sulphate-free products after a few wears. Be sure to dry them well before you brush them as otherwise you may damage or break the hairs, causing the extensions to wear out more quickly.

2. Bonded hair extensions

Also known as fusion hair extensions, these are attached to your natural roots with a tool that resembles a hot glue gun.

This attaches extension strands to individual locks from your hair to give a voluminous and natural appearance.

They typically last around 3-4 months, depending on how you look after them. The things that can have an impact on this include:

• The way you wash your hair
• How often you use heating tools to style them
• The type of hair brush you use

To look after them well, you won’t necessarily need to invest in any particular type of shampoo or conditioner. You can continue with your regular hair care routine, but be gentle with them where possible.

3. Nano hair extensions

These work by attaching tiny wefts of hair to small sections of your natural hair using different sized rings.

Nano rings are currently the smallest on the market, and no heat or glue is required in this technique.

These extensions usually last 3-4 months, but you must be extra cautious when caring for them to avoid damaging the tiny rings at the roots of your hair.

It is best to use only natural products when washing and styling your hair with nano extensions.

After 2-3 months, you will need to have the extensions repositioned as your natural hair growth will move the nano rings away from the scalp.

Avoid brushing too vigorously around the roots as this can damage the rings as well.

4. Tape hair extensions

Using an adhesive weft tape, these extensions tape hair either side of your natural locks to add length and volume.

They are quite popular because no heat is required, so they don’t harm your natural hair or impede its growth in any way.

Tape-ins usually last between 4 and 8 weeks, and if you take good care of them then you could have the same extensions taped back on to refresh the look.

In terms of caring for your tape-in extensions, the golden rule is to never comb or brush them when your hair is wet.

Dry thoroughly and then brush with a specialist hair extension brush to maintain their natural look and extend their lifespan. At Lux Hair Lounge, we use Seamless1 and Showpony extensions as we believe they are the best quality tape-ins available.

5. Beaded hair extensions

Beaded hair extensions are similar to nano extensions, using tiny beads instead of rings to secure the extra hair in place at the roots.

They can last a long time if you take good care of them – up to 6 months or even longer. You will need to have them repositioned after 2-3 months as your natural hair growth moves them away from the scalp.

It is recommended that you avoid any oil-based products with beaded hair extensions. Use natural products to avoid damaging the beads, and don’t brush or comb too vigorously near the roots.

What type of extensions last the longest?

By default, permanent hair extensions like sewn in or bonded ones have the longest lifespan. However, they also do the most damage to your natural hair, and they lack the versatility of other types since you cannot move them once they are in place.

Also, bear in mind that the way you care for them has a significant impact.

This is true of all types of extensions, and with good maintenance, you can get a long lifespan out of most types of hair extensions.

The key is to have a professional stylist attach them and ensure you are investing in high-quality hair extensions.

If you are wondering “How much do hair extensions cost?“, our guide should give you the answers you need.

Summary

There are many types of hair extensions, with pros and cons to each. Caring for your hair extensions is the most important factor that dictates how long they will last.

Ask your stylist for advice on how to wash and style your hair with your chosen extensions and you will have the knowledge you need to make them last.

At Lux Hair Lounge, our stylists only use tape extensions in salon as we aim to protect and preserve the health of your natural hair.

They are cutting-edge hair extensions and far less likely to damage your hair than any other type of extensions. If you want to learn more about why we make this choice and what tape extensions could do for your hair, please get in touch and speak to someone from our friendly team. We serve clients in and around Narellan in NSW.