How Long Does Your Hair Have to Be for Extensions? A Quick Guide
|
|
Time to read 8 min
If you’re tossing up the idea of getting hair extensions, one of the big questions we know you’ll have is how long your hair needs to be to get extensions. And we’ve got the answers you’re looking for.
This is a typical question asked by our RiRi girlies who are trying extensions for the first time, along with the best type of extensions they should get.
Obviously, there needs to be a minimum hair length for the extension clips or wefts to grip onto – but what is this length?
We’ve broken it down for you below in a quick and easy guide, with the minimum length by extension type. You can look for the extensions you were planning on getting or see which ones actually might end up being a better fit.
Scroll down for the low down.
In This Guide:
The Ideal Length for Hair Extensions Minimum Length for Clip-In Extensions Minimum Length for Tape-Ins Minimum Length for Sewn-In Extensions Minimum Length for Micro-Ring Hair Extensions How Short is Too Short for Hair Extensions? Can I Get Hair Extensions With a Pixie Cut? How to Measure Your Hair Length What Other Factors Affect the Length of Extensions You Choose? Hair Styling Facial Features Maintenance Summary: Extensions Are For Everyone FAQs
The Ideal Length for Hair Extensions
So, how long does your hair have to be for extensions? Let's find out.
| Extension Method | Ideal Natural Hair Length |
|---|---|
| Clip-Ins | 4 inches |
| Tape-Ins | 3 to 4 inches |
| Sewn-Ins | 5 to 6 inches |
| Micro-Ring | 3 to 4 inches |
Let’s get a full breakdown,shall we?
Minimum Length for Clip-In Extensions
Clip-in extensions are among the more versatile hair extension methods, and you'll be pleased to know that they actually only really need a minimum length of 4 inches of hair to clip to.
Now, if you've Googled this before, you might be thinking, huh? Only 4 inches? Yes, bestie. We know, we know, you've heard along the grapevine that it needs to be 14 inches. False!
Of course, the longer your hair, the better the clip-ins will blend in and be hidden from outside eyes.
However, as long as the clips have something to grip to, there's no reason you shouldn't use them.
@ririhairextensions_uk OUR BEST SELLER 20 INCH CURLY 🩷👸🏼 our lovely @Niamh Middleton ♬ act ii: date @ 8 - 4Batz
Also, to improve thickness and volume, you could try using more than one of our RiRi wefts. We love using our shorter wefts higher up and longer wefts lower down. Just layer them slightly, and voila – voluptuous locks.
You can't go wrong with a good old clip-in.
Minimum Length for Tape-Ins
Tape-in hair extensions are another application method that we offer here at RiRi (we even offer a fitting service , hehe), and we love them.
Again, thankfully tape-in extensions only need around 3-4 inches of hair to work their magic. This is because they're applied so seamlessly close to the root that the amount of hair needed to cover them is minimal.
The way these babies grow out flat without matting and lay super discreetly*chefs kiss*.
Minimum Length for Sewn-In Extensions
For sewn-in or weve extensions, a little more hair is needed to support the sewn-in hair to make it more durable. So, around 5-6 inches is perfect here .
It would take a really skilled stylist with steady hands to install sewn-in extensions on hair that's any shorter. But no bother – there are plenty of different types of extensions to choose from .
If you can grow your hair to that length, though, sewn-ins are good because they only need refitting as your natural hair grows!
Minimum Length for Micro-Ring Hair Extensions
These types of hair extensions are another good option for people with shorter hair because they only need 3-4 inches of natural hair to be effective.
You will need a profesh to fit micro-rings because the beads or rings are very small so it'll be intricate work in shorter hair. But they are super discreet , so if you don't have a lot of hair to cover fittings with, these are a great choice.
How Short is Too Short for Hair Extensions?
So, just so you're 100% on the right page, anything under 3 inches will be too short to get hair extensions .
It’s not like we wouldn't love you to get your hands on some RiRis, it’s just that we wouldn't want to damage your natural hair, and you could definitely do that if you don’t take our advice!
Your hair growth journey starts here, girls!
Can I Get Hair Extensions With a Pixie Cut?
Some pixie cuts will for sure be suitable for hair extensions, especially if you’re rocking a longer pixie. But you already know what we’re going to say…
If the pixie is less than 3 inches, sorry, ladies, but you might need to grow her out a little longer before considering extensions.
Extensions will be a great option for pixie cuts longer than 3 inches.
But here’s a little side note: If you have short hair and want extensions, don’t go too crazy with the length. The longer the hair extension (and we’re talking 22 to 24 inches here), the more it’ll pull on your natural hair, especially when you don’t have much of it.
Choose a shorter one until your natural hair grows a bit longer.
How to Measure Your Hair Length
Of course, you’ll need to actually know what your natural hair length is for any of this info to be useful. It’s super simple, though; all you need is a measuring tape and a mirror!
Simply start the measuring tape on your forehead and pull it down until it reaches the very ends of your hair. Keep your head level – that’s why it’s best to do this in a mirror. You should now read the tape measure, and that’ll be the length of your hair.
If you want to go a step further, you could measure how long you want your extensions to be . Just pull the tape measure down to your desired length and note that number down.
This will make it much easier to decide the length of your extensions!
What Other Factors Affect the Length of Extensions You Choose?
Length is arguably the most important decision when purchasing hair extensions, and you need to make sure you get it right to avoid disappointment. After all, length is the reason most people want extensions in the first place .
You've also got to think about maintenance. Can you handle longer hair?
So, to make your decision easier, we've put together a few tips you need to consider before pressing checkout.
Hair Styling
#1 Think about the hairstyles you'll want to create with your new hair. Will it be long/short enough?
#2 Covering fittings is necessary for a seamless and natural look, or everyone will know your secrets. Make sure the extensions are long enough to do so when styled. There are some fab hairstyles that hide extensions , like beachy waves, messy buns , and headband styles.
#3 If you need your hair up for work or other things, make sure the length of the extensions allows you to do that without making them obvious.
@ririhairextensions_uk RiRi Look Book 🤎 Sienna wears shade California #tiktokmademebuyit #verydemureverycutesy ##fyp #goviral #flashsale ♬ Pretty (Sped Up) - MEYY
Facial Features
#4 If you've always had short hair, think about your face shape and whether a longer cut would suit it. For example, those with an oblong shape should avoid long hair, but it would complement a square shape nicely.
#5 Don't go too crazy too soon. If you've always had short hair, it might be a shock to the system to go straight in with a 24-inch extension , and you could feel a little regretful. Especially if the length has changed your face. Consider short hair extensions to start.
Maintenance
#6 Remember, the longer the extension is, the more hair care is needed to keep them looking 10/10.
#7 A brush will be your bestie for both synthetic and human hair. Our Shampoo and Conditioner duo will also be a saving grace for your human hair extensions.
#8 Silk bonnets can protect your hair while you sleep in your permanent extensions to avoid waking up in a knotty mess.
#9 When you're not wearing your clip-ins, you need to keep them neatly on a hanger in a bag .
Summary: Extensions Are For Everyone
Despite the rumours (who's spreading these, please?), hair extensions, provided they are right for your hair and applied correctly, shouldn't damage your hair, no matter how short it is . In fact, if you're using synthetics, your natural hair will thank you for not using heat!
We hope you've got some clarity on hair extensions and how long your natural hair should be before making the all-important decision.
So, short queens – yes, you're suitable for hair extensions! As long as you reach the minimum hair length, of course. And if not, it might be time to start your hair growth journey.
But if you are still a lil confused, feel free to contact us with any questions! We love hearing from you, so we're happy to help.
You can shop our entire range of extensions online. From synthetic clip-ins to voluminous half-head hair pieces, we have styles to transform your look so you feel your best self yet.
Did we mention we ship with next-day delivery?
FAQs
How Long Does Your Hair Have to Be for Permanent Extensions?
This depends on the type of permanent hair extension. For example, tape-in and micro-ring extensions offer a bit more flexibility for shorter hair, so your natural hair needs to be around 3-4 inches long . But other extensions, like sewn-in, need around 6 inches.
How Long Does Your Hair Have to Be for Clip-in Extensions?
Some people suggest 14 inches is suitable for clip-in extensions, but it's actually much shorter than that. Clip-in extensions can be used for people with hair 4 inches long.
Can You Put Hair Extensions in Really Short Hair?
You absolutely can! You are limited to what extensions method you can use, but you can definitely still apply them to your short locks.
It’s also recommended to choose a shorter hair extension to minimise pull on your natural hair.
Is My Hair Too Fine for Extensions?
Despite what people say, you can still get hair extensions when you have a thin hair type. For girlies with super fine hair, we'd recommend using a lighter hair extension, like a 50g pot of tape extensions or single wefts of synthetics .
Nancy Pinder
Nancy is our resident hair and beauty specialist at RiRi Hair Extensions. She advises customers daily in our Lakeside and Bluewater stores, helping them find the perfect look, length, and shade of hair extensions.
Nancy also presents our TikTok live to thousands of viewers across the world. You can catch her on our TikTok every week!
