Apply Hair Extensions At Home: Step-By-Step Guide

This guide will teach you how to apply hair extensions at home. Discover the best methods, styling, and maintenance tips for flawless looks.

Hair extensions allow you to enhance your natural hair without the hassle of growing it out. From adding volume and length to enhancing your style, the right hair extensions can instantly elevate your look, all from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re aiming for a temporary boost or a semi-permanent transformation, there are some important guidelines to follow for the best results.

This guide will enhance your look by providing four easy yet effective steps to apply hair extensions at home.

1. 4 steps to apply for hair extensions at home

Preparing your natural hair before applying extensions is key to achieving a flawless and realistic look. Hair extensions last longer when properly integrated with your natural hair.

1.1. Step 1: Get your hair ready

For the extensions to properly blend in and stay, natural hair needs to be prepped well.

• Shampoo & condition: Avoid starting with wet or dirty hair. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and a smoothing conditioner to keep your hair manageable and clean.
• Remove knots well: Use a detangling brush or a wide-tooth comb to remove any knots.
• Create a strong foundation: If your hair is slippery or fine, lightly tease the roots to help the extensions fit securely.

1.3. Step 2: Choose the right type of hair extensions

Each method of using hair extensions has its technique, level of difficulty, and suitability for different hair types. The four most popular methods include:

1.3.1. Method 1: Clip-in hair extensions (best for beginners)

For those starting with extensions, these are the easiest to use. They are the simplest to apply and do not require any special skills; therefore, they can be put on and off in a matter of minutes. Here’s how to do it:

• Part your hair horizontally about an inch above the nape of your neck.
• Take the first weft and secure it into the parted sections, making sure it lies flat against your scalp.
• Continue working upwards, parting your hair and clipping in additional wefts as needed.

1.3.2. Method 2: Tape-in hair extensions (semi-permanent & natural look)

These extensions are the next step for someone looking for a more permanent and low-maintenance option. Tape-in extensions are effortless to maintain as they can blend in seamlessly with your hair and stay in for weeks. Follow these steps:

• Line your hair with thin sections starting from the nape of your neck.
• Depending on your hair thickness, peel off the backing of the adhesive tape and apply it beneath a section of your natural hair.
• Add two more extension pieces on top, sandwiching your natural hair between the two tapes.

1.3.3. Method 3: Hair wig (quick & damage-free)

Wigs allow for a quick style change without hair damage and can be styled in any manner one chooses. Wigs are a great option whether you want to try out a new style or protect your hair from exposure. The correct application process for wigs consists of the following steps:

• To create a flat surface near your scalp, use braids or pins.
• Wear a wig cap to protect your hair from friction and secure the wig in place.
• Start by positioning the wig at your hairline, then gently pull it over your head.
• Wig elasticity and built-in combs alongside clips and an elastic band will help maintain a proper wig fit.

1.3.4. Method 4: Sew-in (weave) hair extensions (best for thick & coarse hair)

Sew-in extensions are ideal for those who have coarse or thick hair. This method offers the greatest hold, as the hair has to be braided down before installing the weave. After the braid is done, the weave can then be sewn on, giving it a tight hold. Here’s how to install them:

• Braid your natural hair into small, tight cornrows as a foundation.
• First, thread a curved needle with extension thread and tie a knot at the end.
• Attach the hair weft to the braids by creating loops with the extension thread, then tie it securely onto the cornrows.
• Stitch across each braid, tying secure knots as you go until you reach the end of each row.

1.4. Step 3: Blend & Style your hair extensions

To achieve a flawless look, it is extremely important to blend the hair extensions with your natural hair after the extensions have been placed.

• Trim if needed: For a more natural look, trim the extensions to match your natural hair length if they’re too long.
• Style as desired: Curl or straighten your natural hair, ensuring you style both the extensions and natural hair together for a seamless blend.
• Use hair products: Using lightweight styling products like texturizing spray and heat protectants can enhance blending while not being too greasy for the hair.

1.5. Step 4: Maintain & Care for your extensions

With a proper maintenance routine, the lifespan of the hair extensions will be prolonged.

• Brush gently: Use a loop brush or wide-tooth comb to gently detangle and avoid pulling the extensions out.
• Wash with care: After every 10 -15 wears, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. This is for less maintenance semi-permanent extensions like tape-ins.
• Store properly: Store clip-in extensions in a box or silk bag to prevent tangling.
• Avoid excessive heat: Lower the use of heat when styling the hair to maintain quality for the natural hair and extensions.

2. Common mistakes to avoid

It is common for newcomers to these types of products or services to make simple errors during the application process; here is some advice that can help.

• Choose the wrong shade: Extensions should not contrast with natural hair color or they will look fake. Always compare shades in actual outdoor light.
• Skip hair preparation: The application of extensions on dirty or tangled hair may result in slipping or uncomfy.
• Using too many wefts: If you load too many wefts onto your scalp, you will damage your scalp, making your extensions look bulky.

Conclusion

There are a variety of techniques and products available, so applying hair extensions at home has never been easier. Getting a stunning hairstyle doesn’t have to be a challenge if you do your hair preparation right, select the right type of extension, style it appropriately, and preserve it correctly.