Hair extensions cost $200 to $600 on average when applied in a salon, depending on the type and length. The cheapest are clip-in and tape-in extensions that cost $100 to $200 total. Professionally bonded cold-fusion extensions that last up to 6 months cost $1,500 to $3,000 for a full head of long hair.

All hair extensions work by attaching to your natural hair near the roots, but they attach in different ways.

The main extension types work with these application methods:

• Clip-ins are attached to snap-on clips that go underneath your top hair layers. Inserting and removing them is easy.
• Tape-ins adhere to your natural hair near your roots, and stylists sandwich them in between layers of your hair to make a strong bond. The adhesives on some tapes require heat to activate.
• Sewn-in extensions are stitched into tiny cornrow braids of your natural hair (under the top layers) using a needle and nylon thread.
• Fusion types & glue-ins are real human hair pieces attached to small sections of hair under the top layers with adhesives that last for months.

Hair extensions are worth it for people who want:

• Instant long hair
• New hair that they can dye and style just like their natural hair
• Thicker and fuller-looking hair for new looks
• New hair they can sleep in, unlike a wig you should remove nightly

However, most hair extensions become damaged from swimming. If you love swimming, get the strongest fusion-bonded extensions and keep your hair tied up or in a swim cap for protection. Too much hair washing can also damage most extensions over time.

To know how long you should expect your hair extensions to last, consider the type:

• Clip-ins last 3 to 6 months or more but aren't durable enough to wear continuously.
• Tape-in extensions last 4 to 8 weeks.
• Sewn-in extensions last 1 to 3 months.
• Fusion & micro-link extensions last 3 to 4 months.
• Glue-in & protein-bonded extensions last 4 to 8 weeks for the cheaper kinds or 4 to 6 months for high-quality types.

Compare the pros and cons of each hair extension method to decide which is best for you:

• Clip-in hair extensions – This type is DIY-friendly and attaching them is quick and easy. Clip-ins are the most affordable, and you should take them off periodically. However, clipped hair extensions fall off more easily than the other types and tend to be made of lower-quality artificial hair.
• Tape-in hair extensions – This type is typically real human hair, so it looks more natural. Still, the tape on these extensions is visible if they aren't attached correctly. Washing your hair frequently will damage them. Only a salon professional should remove them to avoid damaging the hair.
• Sew-in hair extensions – Use sewn-in extensions for short hair since the roots are invisible. This type doesn't slip off and is glue-free. However, this category of hair extensions is not for those with thin hair, and they can cause headaches.
• Glue-in & protein-bonded extensions – This type is expensive, very strong, and works with all hair types for a long-lasting and natural look. However, they can damage the natural hair and aren't reusable.

Some hair extensions are bad for certain hair types. Ask your stylist at the salon which type is best for you to prevent causing hair damage, especially if you have thinning short hair. Professionally fitted hair extensions typically won't damage your hair, especially if they are well-cared for.

To prepare for your new hair extensions, follow these steps:

• Wash your hair on the day of the appointment, unless the stylist will do it for you.
• Do not leave any styling products or conditioner on your hair.
• If dyeing your hair as well, do the hair coloring before adding extensions to make sure your new hair color matches the extensions.
• Bring reading materials because most extensions take a long time at the salon to install.

A hair stylist will install hair extensions, and they can also do highlights and balayage for you in the same appointment.

Use this checklist to choose the right hair extension specialist for you:

• Compare at least 3 prices from stylists with 5+ years of experience.
• Read their reviews on Fash and Google.
• Select certified professionals.
• Avoid the cheapest treatments that suggest low-quality standards.

• How long have you been doing hair extensions?
• Do you have example before-and-after photos of past clients?
• What are your qualifications, and where did you train?
• Do you use REMY hair or virgin human hair?
• Do you charge for consultations?
• How long will the process take?
• Which hair extension method is best for me?
• How should I maintain my hair extensions?
• Is there anything I should do before the treatment?