How Long Do Hair Extensions Last and Cost? [Glue-In, Tape-In, Clip-In]
Many women love and treasure their hair extensions, regardless of the length or color of their natural hair. Recently, we have seen an influx of high-quality hair extension options with improved methods of fixing them to the hair.
If you have your eyes on hair extensions, it is vital to take a close look at what you will be investing in, especially the cost and how it relates to quality.
Your investment has to be worthwhile and long-lasting if you are going for hair extensions. Hence, it is necessary to have a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of the durability of the different types of hair extensions on the market.
You can find all the information you need, from how long a hair extension should last to its cost, in the following paragraphs.
How Long Do Hair Extensions Last?
Let’s have a general overview of how long hair extensions available these days can last. But first, let me introduce all the available options to you.
There are glue-in, tape-in, synthetic, feather, and clip-in hair extensions. The distinct names reveal their specific methods of getting them attached to your hair.
For example, if you settle for a tape-in extension, you should expect that your hair will be sandwiched between the two layers of the extension with adhesive tape.
Before we go on to highlight each hair extension’s durability, I want you to have in mind that every item lasts according to how you can maintain it, hair extension inclusive.
Generally, the average life span of all hair extensions (real or synthetic) is 6 months. That duration depends on constant usage of the extension over some time. But in rare cases, the duration may extend, especially if you don’t use the product as often as expected.
So, your synthetic hair could last longer than your clip-in human hair if you don’t use the synthetic as often as the clip-in.
It’s time to discuss each hair extension and its durability one by one.
Glue-in Hair Extensions
Glue-in hair extensions are attached to the hair with a hot glue gun-like tool. They are glued to the root of each hair strand to give an illusion of a fuller, natural effect on the hair.
How Long Do Glue-in Hair Extensions Last?
Glue-In hair extensions last for approximately 3 to 4 months. But they could be there for longer if maintained properly.
That depends on whether you use the right type of comb, how often you wash your hair while the extensions are in, and how frequently you style them using hot thongs. Repositioning of the extension is required every two months to keep the natural outlook intact.
Shampoos and conditioners are not necessary for maintenance. A simple cleaning routine using cotton wool or washcloth soaked in methylated spirit is enough to keep your scalp clean.
Also, minimize the usage of hair moisturizers to avoid excessive buildup of products and dirt in your hair.
How Much Do Glue-in Hair Extensions Cost?
Glue-in hair extension prices range between $19 to $52, depending on your choice and length. 16 inches weigh 30g at $19, while 20 inches weigh 50g at $31.
They come in 20 pieces per package, and you will need 3 sets for a full head. These are good quality Remy hair.
Other products cost a bit more @ $42 for 14 inches and $52 for 18 inches. They are 100% human hair, tangle, and shedding-free. They can be dyed, curled, or straightened as you wish.
Here are the top 3 products you can choose from:
Recommended Glue-in Hair Extensions that Last Long
Tape-in Hair Extensions
As the name implies, tape-in hair extensions are meant to be taped in-between your hair leaving your hair sandwiched in the middle of the two layers of the extension. It is usually done with the aid of an adhesive tape that comes with the extension.
How Long Do Tape-in Hair Extensions Last?
Tape-in hair extensions are durable for as long as 6 to 7 months. Although, they can be reused to provide a fresh appearance if properly treated.
Since no heat is required in attaching the tape-in extension, it doesn’t hinder your natural hair from growing while it is fixed.
To keep tape-in extensions for longer, resist the urge to brush them when they are wet. Ensure that you blow-dry them and use special hair extension brushes or combs for them.
How Much Do Tape-in Hair Extensions Cost?
Tape-in hair extensions come in varying lengths of tape-in extensions, for instance, 14 inches are sold at $57 while 16 inches could go at $65, and you can find $24 inches at $104.
These come in 40 pieces per package with 10 extra tapes for re-installation. 100% human hair that can be bleached or dyed. They can also be straightened or curled according to preference.
The sticking power of the tape lasts for 1-2 months when you will have to reposition the extensions due to hair growth at the roots.
Recommended Tape-in Hair Extensions that Last Long
Synthetic Hair Extensions
Synthetic hair extensions are mostly sewn in and almost permanent. To sew your hair extension onto your hair, your natural hair has to be woven into cornrows. Then with the aid of a threaded needle, the extension is sewn to the weaves.
The maximum duration of having a full weave on your hair is 4 months because your natural hair growth could be affected.
How Long Do Synthetic Hair Extensions Last?
Synthetic hair extension has a lifespan of about 2 to 3 months if not used constantly.
Washing isn’t recommended due to its artificial nature and the possibility of tangling in the process. It has a glossy appearance and doesn’t easily complement your natural hair so it is best sewn in.
Limit or avoid the application of moisturizing hair products to reduce the need for washing or cleaning. Natural oils like olive oil can be applied sparingly once or twice a week.
How Much Do Synthetic Hair Extensions Cost?
100% high-temperature fiber hair containing a bundle of 7 afro kinky curly hairs comprising:
- 3 pieces of 22 inches
- 2 pieces of 24 inches
- 2 pieces of 26 inches
All at an affordable price of $20.
Although, after 2 to 3 wears, they begin to tangle and lose shape. They can be washed or curled but due to their synthetic nature, it is best to avoid using heat on them to prevent damage and prolong their lifespan.
There are other options for a lesser price of $13 comprising (16 inches, 18 inches, and 20 inches). Generally, synthetic hair sheds and tangles. It cannot be dyed due to its fiber composition.
Recommended Synthetic Hair Extensions that Last Long
Feather Hair Extensions
Another name for feather hair extension is micro-loop hair extension. It is attached to the hair via the roots with the help of the microbeads on the extension.
The process involves picking a small section of your natural hair and fixing tiny strands of hair to the roots. You do not require using any glue or heat to achieve your goal.
How Long Do Feather Hair Extensions Last?
Approximately 6 to 8 months of durability is ascribed to the feather hair extension.
It should be treated just like your natural mane since it is fixed to the roots of your hair. Use similar products you use for your natural hair to maintain the hair extension to prolong its lifespan.
Repositioning is required every 2 months just like that of the glue-in hair extension. The reason for that is, the beads would have shifted from their positions at the base as your hair grows.
How Much Do Feather Hair Extensions Cost?
The cost of feather/micro loop hair extensions is based on their lengths. For example, a 100g pack of 100 strands of Brazilian virgin hair costs as follows:
- 10 inches at $60
- 12 inches at $63
- 14 inches at $70
- 16 inches at $75
- 18 inches at $80
- 20 inches at $86
- 22 inches at $91
- 24 inches at $97
Feather hair extensions are easy to install without heat, hair damage, no glue, and no sewing. The colors rhyme with hair color and you may add highlights to them according to your preference. The extensions are silky, smooth, and soft and can be dyed yourself.
They are attached using cold fusion and are undetectable underneath your natural hair. Purchase 2 to 3 packs to increase your hair volume or 4 packs for extra length. It takes up to 3 hours to get it installed in your hair.
There are other options with lower prices than the Brazilian brand detailed above. You can get a 20-inch Remy hair for as low as $49 or even $42 depending on your budget. Below are the top options you can choose from.
Recommended Feather Hair Extensions that Last Long
Clip-in Hair Extensions
Clip-in hair extensions are so far the number one extension that does not cause damage to the hair. That is because of the attached clip at the bottom of the extension which is fixed safely to the hair without any pressure.
How Long Do Clip-in Hair Extensions Last?
With regular usage, clip-in hair extensions can last from 8 to 10 months and if well cared for, they can extend beyond 1 year. But that depends on how much they are maintained and treated.
Clip-in hair extensions are the most temporary of all the hair extensions available. Natural sulfate-free shampoos should be used to wash these extensions after 20 uses to extend their lifespan. Do not brush them when wet to prevent wear and tear or breakage of the hair extensions.
How Much Do Clip-in Hair Extensions Cost?
Clip-in hair extensions that come in a pack of 7-piece sets of 16 clips range from $87 to $124 for 18 inches to 24 inches respectively.
If you have thick hair, one pack is enough for you, but for thinner hair, you will need to buy 2 to 3 packs. The extensions are thick from top to bottom and are straight textured.
The design is invisible with thin wefts and you can change the color without touching your natural hair. These hair extensions can be worn all day and you may easily return to your natural hair the following day. They come in 100% virgin human hair quality.
Your hair and the extensions can be curled or trimmed and you can use two different lengths to achieve a layered pattern. Tease your roots first before fixing the extensions to your hair.
Recommended Clip-in Hair Extensions that Last Long
How to Check Longevity of Hair Extensions before Purchase?
There is a huge difference between original human hair and synthetic hair. You should know that human hair lasts longer than synthetic hair by now from the previous explanations on the lifespan of different hair extensions.
There are several ways to go about checking if your hair extension will last long or not. Generally, for all human hair extensions, if you are purchasing online which is common nowadays, here are the critical factors that you must check before settling for a buy:
1. Check out Reviews and User Feedback
The moment you make up your mind to purchase a hair extension online, the first step is to look through the sales website for other customers’ reviews of the product. Read what people have said concerning the product and the kind of experience they have had using it.
A good hair extension will definitely be recommended by the majority of customers. Take note of their tone if it is regretful or complimentary. You can easily tell from such reviews whether you are about to invest rightly or not.
2. Consider the Price Tag
It is usual for every quality item for sale to come with a high price tag, and hair extensions are number one. High-quality Remy or Brazilian hair costs a lot, and no seller will settle for a low bargain on them.
Talk more about the best of all human hair that comes from Russia. You can bet that you will be charged hundreds or thousands of dollars for it.
If any human hair extension comes with a ridiculous price tag that is too good to be true, run! Don’t accept a fake product because you are desperate to have it at a cheaper price. While looking out for this criterion, perform other tests which I am about to reveal to you.
3. Post Delivery Tests
When you finally receive your order, it is important to run your fingers through the hair unless you aren’t buying human hair. Be aware that human hair is silky, not rough, not coarse, nor too shiny.
Here are other tests that you can perform although, there is every tendency that you may not be able to return the product afterward:
- Burn Test: Cut off 2 or 3 strands of the hair extension and ignite using a lighter or a non-fragrant candle. If it burns and smells like real hair and rolls up into ashes, then it is original human hair. But if it burns smelling like rubber or plastic and melts into a hard bundle, it is synthetic or fake hair.
- Bounce Test: For wavy human hair, tangle the hair by brushing it vigorously, then sprinkle some water on it and try to detangle it with your fingers. Original human hair will bounce back to its previous wavy shape, while a counterfeit product will not.
- Heat Test: Apply heat from a flat pressing iron or hot thongs to check if the hair can withstand heat. If it melts, then it is fake.
Final Words:
If you have the time to visit the physical store of the online sales website you are negotiating with, please do so.
If you are buying from a local store close to your location, you can perform any of these checks before paying for the product or ask them to give you an opening to make returns if you do the trial at home.
The joy of every purchase is to benefit from the product over a long time. Durability is crucial for every item, so be vigilant when making your choice and ensure that you settle for the best hair extension out there.
