Learn whether clip in hair extensions will damage your hair
If you’ve decided to take the plunge and go for hair extensions, you’re probably aware there are several different types to choose from and you’ve likely mulled over which one you should pick.
While each type of hair extension has its pros and cons, there’s one particular type that is often the subject of cruel internet humor and touted as “cringeworthy.”
Clip ins commonly find their way onto viral posts about hair extensions gone wrong and feature embarrassing photos and fails.
But is it actually the clip ins which are to blame for all those “hair-don’ts”, or is it simply user error? Here’s all the hairy facts on clip in extensions.
Types of Hair Extensions
First let’s go over the basic facts on the three most common types of hair extensions.
Clip in extensions are the cheapest of the bunch, require no commitment, and simply clip into your hair as needed. Since they’re only temporary they’re often the go-to extension for special occasions.
Tape in extensions are semi-permanent, last 6-8 weeks and are a good middle ground between temporary and permanent.
Micro bonded extensions rely on a tiny ring with loose strands of hair attached in sections to your own hair. This method can last several months, depending on how quickly your natural hair grows.
Why Choose Clip in Extensions?
Clip in extensions require no visit to the salon, making them the easiest and most accessible way to obtain longer, fuller hair. This can be useful for those who want to try out the look or are considering having permanent hair extensions put in. Clips ins are also best for those who want to look great for a special night or event, such as a wedding or party.
Can Clip in Extensions Be Worn Every Day?
No! Unless you want to end up with random bald patches on your head, don’t even think about wearing your clip ins daily. If you find that you’re loving the look of extensions, consider having tape-in extensions put in. Tape ins last for several weeks and are a short-term solution that won’t damage your hair.
Why Clip ins Cause Damage
If all the cringey photos online aren’t enough to convince you, let’s talk about how clip in extensions cause damage.
Clip in extensions attach at the weft to the back of your hair. Unfortunately, the clips are heavy as is the actual hair that’s attached to them. And, if you’re styling your hair or putting it up in a ponytail, this causes even further damage. The worst offenders are clip in extensions weighing over 180 grams as they impart the highest amount of strain on your hair.
Once you clip in a heavy weft, it’ll begin pulling out your natural hair almost immediately. With prolonged use, expect all the hairs in that area to dwindle down one by one, until you are left with an unsightly bald patch.
Some clip in hair extensions claim to be “less damaging” because they have a rubber or silicone strip covering the metal and suggest that this layer of protection helps prevent hair from falling out. However, since the hair loss occurs from the weight of the weft, not its material, this does nothing to stop the pressure point, which is to blame for the formation of the bald spot.
Basically, if you’re putting a lot of strain or pressure on one centralized area, you’re going to go bald no matter what type of material is used. And the heavier the hair extension and more often you wear it, the sooner this will happen.
Once bald spots have formed, the vicious extension cycle begins. Your hair has become noticeably thinner, so your need for extensions is validated and you begin using the clip ins every time you leave the house. And the more you use the extensions, the worse your hair becomes.
Covering the bald spots with extensions then leads to the embarrassing photos you see online, as there is no hair left to hide the weft.
How to Avoid Damage from Clip Ins
It sounds simple, but it’s the best and only solution – don’t wear your clip ins every day. If you love the look of your extensions, go for a more permanent solution. Just make sure you’re saving your clips ins for only special occasions unless you want to become the unwitting subject of a hair extension fail.
Resources — Elle, Glam Seamless
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