The Ultimate Guide to Hair Extensions: Which One is Right for You?
Thinking about hair extensions but not sure which type is best for you? With so many options—hand-tied, tape-in, clip-in, and keratin bonds—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
At 707 Hair Studios in Old Town, Chicago, we specialize in hand-tied extensions, and for good reason: they look natural, last longer, and are healthier for your hair. Let’s break down each type of extension and help you decide which is right for your hair goals!
Hand-Tied Extensions: The Gold Standard for Natural, Seamless Hair
Best for: Anyone who wants full, voluminous, long-lasting hair with the most natural, undetectable look.
What Are Hand-Tied Extensions?
Hand-tied extensions are made by sewing wefts of hair onto a row of beads that are carefully placed on your natural hair. They don’t use glue, heat, or tape, making them one of the least damaging extension methods.
Why Hand-Tied Extensions Are the Best Choice:
✔ Lightweight & Comfortable – No bulky bonds or heavy tape pulling on your scalp.
✔ Blends Seamlessly – The wefts lie flat, making them virtually undetectable.
✔ Low Maintenance – No daily application, lasts 6-8 weeks before a move-up.
✔ Works on Most Hair Types – Perfect for fine to thick hair without causing stress or breakage.
✔ Longer Lifespan – With proper care, hand-tied extensions last 6+ months (vs. 6-8 weeks for tape-ins).
Why I Recommend Them: Hand-tied extensions move naturally, last longer, and don’t cause breakage like tape-ins or glue-in extensions. If you’re looking for the best investment in gorgeous hair, this is it!
Interested? Let’s book a consultation and get you the hair of your dreams!
Tape-In Extensions: A Quick Fix, But Not a Long-Term Solution
Best for: Someone who wants a temporary volume boost but isn’t looking for long-term wear.
🔹 What Are Tape-In Extensions?
Tape-in extensions use sticky adhesive strips to attach wefts of hair close to your scalp. The installation process is quick(about an hour), and the extensions last 4-8 weeks before needing to be reinstalled.
🔹 Downsides of Tape-Ins:
❌ Can Cause Breakage – The adhesive can weaken your natural hair over time.
❌ Doesn’t Blend as Well – Tapes can sometimes be visible when hair is styled up.
❌ Shorter Lifespan – Tape-ins last only 6-8 weeks before needing to be removed and reinstalled.
❌ Requires More Frequent Maintenance – If you have oily hair, the adhesive may slip faster.
📌 Why I Don’t Recommend Tape-Ins: While they’re a quick solution, they don’t provide the same seamless blend or durability as hand-tied extensions. Plus, the adhesive can weaken hair over time, leading to more damage in the long run.
Other Types of Extensions: Are They Worth It?
Keratin Bond (Fusion) Extensions
✅ Good for: People who want long-term extensions without daily maintenance.
❌ Why Not: The heat application process can weaken natural hair, leading to potential breakage.
Clip-In Extensions
✅ Good for: Occasional wear (weddings, events, etc.).
❌ Why Not: They can cause traction damage if worn daily, and they don’t stay secure for long-term wear.
Final Verdict: Why Hand-Tied Extensions Are the Best Choice
If you’re looking for:
✔ Long-lasting, natural-looking extensions
✔ A lightweight, damage-free method
✔ Low maintenance and comfortable wear
Hand-tied extensions are the way to go! They’re the best option for maintaining hair health, longevity, and an ultra-natural appearance.
Ready for a Hair Transformation? Let’s Make It Happen!
At 707 Hair Studios in Old Town, Chicago, I specialize in hand-tied extensions for a seamless, luxurious, and damage-free look.
📍 707 Hair Studios – Old Town, Chicago
📅 Book a consultation today at www.allenwiggs.com!
🚀 Let’s get you the full, gorgeous hair you deserve!