Best Types of Hair Extensions for Your Hair - According to Our Experts

Written by: Nancy Pinder

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Time to read 8 min

Wondering what the best type of extensions are for you? We’ve broken down the best extensions based on your hair type, so you can use this as your guide to discovering the perfect extensions for your hair.


Sit back, relax, and scroll through RiRi's world of extension methods , and by the end, you'll know exactly what your hair needs. And after that, luscious locks are just a few clicks away!

Before you scroll down to your hair type, here's a bit of info on each of the extensions:

Hair Extension Type Stand-Out Qualities Maintenance Cost
Clip-Ins
  • Easy to apply and remove
  • Temporarily adds length and volume
  • Cost-effective
£15-£80 for synthetic
£140-£220 for human hair
Tape-Ins
  • Long-term extension solution
  • We offer a fitting service at our salon!
  • They add length and volume
  • Regular washing and brushing
  • Repositioning every 4-6 weeks as your natural hair grows
From £150-£285 incl. fitting service
Micro Rings
  • Long-lasting option
  • Non-damaging
  • Reusable
£190-£600 depending on length and colour
They must be fitted by a professional
Sew-Ins
  • Long-term solution
  • Allow you to add volume, style, and colour
  • Wash with extension-safe shampoo and conditioner
  • Use heat protectant spray whilst styling
  • Air dry them to help them last longer
£100-£600, depending on hair quality, length, and amount

What are the Best Hair Extensions for Thick, Long, & Curly Hair?

Yes, that's right, we've grouped you all together. That doesn't mean you all have the same hair-needs, but it happens that we'd recommend you all the same extension methods.


Now, if you think your thin hair needs outweigh your long or curly needs, you can scroll down to the fine hair section and find an extension method that fits your multiple needs. The same goes for short and curly hair types, and so on.


Anyway, that's the admin out of the way.


Just because you've been blessed with stunning thick, long, or curly hair, that doesn't mean you can't use hair extensions for that extra oomph!


Whether you want to enhance your hair or switch up the colour , here are the extensions best for your hair types:

Clip-In Hair Extensions

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Clip-in hair extensions are perfect for people with thick hair because you actually have a good amount of hair for them to clip on to.


This means there will be fewer breakages , and you'll be able to see the clips through your hair much less.


If you've got curly or long hair, they'll be ideal for you, too, because, again, you'll have a good amount of hair and volume for them to adhere to.


No one wants clips poking out everywhere.


They're simple to use and allow you to experiment with different styles, colours and lengths with ease. Go on, go get your princess waves!

Tape-In Hair Extensions

Tape-in hair extensions work really well for you gals, especially if you're after that long-term solution that clip-ins can't provide.


Of course, the price reflects their semi-permanence. So, if it's treat day, this is the way to go.


The application process involves securely sandwiching a thin strip of natural hair between two extension pieces using strong tape.


Our tape extensions are made from Remy human hair , so you can style and wash them exactly as you would your natural hair (in the name of Sabrina Carpenter, please, please, please remember heat protectant!).

However, it's worth noting that clip-in hair extensions may not be the best choice for individuals with very thin or fine hair. In some cases, they can feel a bit heavy and uncomfortable when worn. 


Additionally, hiding the clips can be a challenge, potentially affecting the overall appearance of the extensions.

Micro Ring Hair Extensions

Micro ring hair extensions are popular if you want long-lasting results . The application process doesn't involve heat or glue, so it's a win if you're looking for something non-damaging.


If you want longer, fuller hair , micro rings (sometimes called micro bead or micro link extensions) could be the ones for you.


Although a more premium option, they're actually quite cost-effective because they can be reused multiple times (as long as you change the rings!).

Sew-In Hair Extensions

Sew-in hair extensions are sewn directly into the hair using a needle and thread and add serious volume and length to your natural hair.


Sounds scary, but trust us, it isn't. You will need a professional to fit them, though.


They're designed to be worn for several weeks at a time , with re-fitting only required as your natural hair grows.


If you have a lot of hair, you’ll have the substance to sew the extensions into.

What are the Best Hair Extensions for Fine Hair?

Need that volume so you can actually style your hair the way you want? We know the struggle, but girl, you don't need to struggle anymore!


Here are the best extension types for your hair so you can finally achieve your dream look:

Tape-in Hair Extensions

Tape-in hair extensions would be a great option for you thin-haired beauts. We could go on and on about the benefits. So we will.


They're nice and lightweight, so you'll have minimal pull on your hair follicles . They also grow out super flat and tidy – we'll have no matting over here, thank you.


The tapes are also really discreet , so even if you don't have much hair, you can still hide your extensions.


You've seen the price at the top. So, yeah, they're a bit of an investment, but oh so worth it.

Sew-In Extensions

Sew-in hair extensions don't use heat or glue , so those who desperately don't want to ruin their fine hair could consider this extension method.


Damage to any hair can be a problem, but especially for thin hair, so we want to minimise that.


Offering you fullness and texture , sew-ins can be worn for weeks at a time, and you'll only need a refit as your natural hair grows.


Maintenance is a breeze, as we mentioned at the top; a little bit of TLC, and you'll be good to go.

What are the Best Hair Extensions for Short Hair?

So, you've tried it all, and the rosemary oil and dream-length products just aren't cutting it. Well, it's a good job you're here!


Now that you've finally made the leap and realised hair extensions are for you, here's what we recommend for your hair type:

Tape-In Hair Extensions

Wow, tape-ins really are popular today.


For short hair, our main aim is to be sure we can't see the extensions and that they grow out nice and flat so you don't get a weird-looking bump at the back of your head.


Tape-ins happen to be perfect for this, allowing you to add that length with our quality hair extensions super close and flat to the root.

Micro-Ring Hair Extensions

Micro ring extensions cause minimal damage to your hair , but they're also so discreet that they'll be virtually undetectable in your short hair.


They're attached to small sections of your natural hair using tiny rings or beads, typically made of aluminium.


Adding length, style, and colour without adding harsh chemicals to your hair? Yes, please.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Hair Extensions for Your Hair

As well as the features and benefits of each type of hair extension we’ve been through and which are suitable for different hair types, there are some extra things you should consider before purchasing your extensions of choice.


These are our top factors to consider:

  • Lifestyle – Your lifestyle can heavily influence the type of extensions most suitable for you. If you lead a busy life or prefer low-maintenance hairstyles , clip-in extensions could be a better choice since they can be easily removed and reinserted. If you're ready for a more permanent change and don't mind the upkeep, tape-ins or micro ring extensions may be more suitable.

  • Styling preferences – If you love frequently changing your hair’s colour, length or style, certain types of hair extensions, particularly those made from human hair, may offer more flexibility.

  • Hair health – If your hair is damaged or weak, some extension methods (like those that require heat or glue) might exacerbate the problem. Opt for damage-free options.

If you’re unsure which extensions are best for your hair, you can always consult with a hair professional   before making a decision!

To summarise, here’s what we recommend:

  • Best hair extensions for thick hair : Clip-in, tape-in, micro rings, & sew-in

  • Best hair extensions for thin hair : Tape-in & sew-in

  • Best hair extensions for curly hair : Clip-in, tape-in, micro rings, & sew-in

  • Best hair extensions for short hair : Tape-in & micro rings

  • Best hair extensions for long hair : Clip-in, tape-in, micro rings, & sew-in

Our Verdict: The Best Type of Hair Extensions

Selecting the right hair extensions depends heavily on your personal needs, lifestyle, and hair type.


So, have a think about what your hair type might be, and use our breakdown above to help make up your mind. Or get in touch if you have any extra questions!


RiRi hopes you love your new journey into extensions!

FAQs

What Types of Hair Extensions Are Least Damaging?

Clip-in hair extensions are considered the least damaging for your hair and, therefore, the healthiest.

What Are the Best Types of Hair Extensions to Avoid Hair Loss?

If your natural hair is thin, brittle, and falling out due to damage, tape-in hair extensions will probably be your best bet. They're gentle and don't involve tight braiding, chemicals, or heated tools. They also don't add too much weight to your hair, which is helpful.

What Hair Extensions Are the Most Realistic?

Remy human hair extensions are the most realistic because they are exactly that – human hair! Donated from hair donors, they are super sleek and beautifully blend with your natural hair.

Why is My Hair So Thin After Extensions?

This is because the weight of the hair extensions loosens your natural hair shafts from their follicles. Basically meaning, they're too heavy. If this is happening to you, try clip-in extensions , which you can remove when you don't need them.

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!

Find Nancy on TikTok!

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