Since the demand for hair extensions has increased, manufacturers have made it possible for more women to afford them. By offering a variety of installation methods and hair quality, women everywhere can have longer, fuller hair, without it costing them an arm and a leg. Whether you’re shopping for hair extensions for yourself or for your salon, here are things to consider when shopping for hair extensions to help you stay within your budget.

Tape-Ins. These are the easiest and fastest to install for a hair stylist. The installation time can range from 30 minutes to an hour and a half. Because it’s such a quick installation, Tape-Ins aren’t as expensive when it comes to the application time. As of now, Tape-Ins are the latest trend because of their seamless, natural finish. Their high quality will also last you up to three months with proper care, before your next move up appointment.

I-Links. You still get the same amount of hair in grams as any other hair method. However, you will be spending a little more on installation because this method involves installing each strand by connecting them to your natural hair with micro-beads. The minimal time for installation is 2 hours but it can surely take longer depending on the thickness of your hair. It’s a client favorite because it requires no heat, glue, bonds, or chemicals. Because the beads are so tiny, they are easily hidden in your hair. If properly cared for, they can last you 3 to 4 months before your move-up appointment.

Kera-Links. These, like the I-Link method, are installed strand by strand. Instead of using a bead like the I-Links, Kera-Link extensions use keratin bonds that are fused into each strand of your natural hair. This method is also known as Fusion. It is the oldest method of installation because of the ultimate styling potential—no beads or tape to hide! If cared for properly, these will last you as long as I-Link hair extensions before your next move-up appointment. Again, these will be more costly due to the time spent for installation.

Clip-Ins. If your budget is super tight, Clip-Ins are always a great option. They are a combination of long and single wefts that you install yourself by using the clips that are attached on the weft to your natural hair. Because they are only attached by a clip like a hair barrette, they will need to be taken out at the end of the day. If you don’t mind taking the time to place and take these in and out of your hair each day, then this method will be perfect for you.

All three hair methods come in 100% human remy hair which means you can reuse them for up to a year. Clip-Ins come in synthetic and remy. The price of hair extensions are based on the method of installation (time it takes to install), length (the longer in inches, the more pricey they get), and the hair quality (synthetic versus human remy). Since human remy is the highest quality of hair extensions, they will be more expensive than synthetic hair. You cannot apply heat styling tools to synthetic hair like you can to human remy.

If you’d like more information on how to shop for hair or hair stylists, drop us a line! We’re always here to help!