Your First Hair Extensions: The Complete Beginner's Guide
Your First Hair Extensions? A Complete Beginner’s Guide from MyHair – Choosing, Installing and Caring for Them ❤️
If you’re thinking about hair extensions for the first time, you probably have dozens of questions…
- What hair should I choose..?
- How many grams do I need..?
- Which method is best for me..?
- How do I keep my hair looking beautiful for as long as possible..?
Many women put off getting extensions because they worry about whether they’ll look natural, whether they’ll be comfortable to wear, and whether they’ll damage their own hair. The truth is that with the right hair, a suitable method and good maintenance, extensions can blend seamlessly with your natural hair and give you a beautiful result without compromising on comfort.
In this guide from MyHair, you’ll find everything you need to know before getting your first extensions ❤️
1. What is your goal?
Before choosing extensions, it’s important to decide what result you want to achieve.
✔ More length
✔ More volume
✔ Both length and volume
The final result always depends not only on the hair you choose, but also on the length, density and condition of your own hair.
2. Why does hair texture matter so much?
When choosing extensions, it’s not just about matching the color. For the most natural result, the texture of the hair should also be as close as possible to your own.
For example, if your hair is very fine and soft, hair that is too thick may look unnatural. On the other hand, if your hair is thicker, extensions that are too fine may not give you the volume you want. The right combination of texture, color and quantity is the key to a beautiful, natural result.
3. How many grams of hair do I need?
One of the most common questions about first extensions is how much hair you’ll need for a natural result.
As a general guide:
- 55 cm – about 100–200 g
- 65 cm – about 150–200 g
- 70 cm – about 150–300 g
Keep in mind that these are approximate amounts. The weight you need depends on the length, density and condition of your natural hair, as well as the final result you want. The longer and thicker the hair, the more grams are usually needed for a beautiful, full and natural result.
4. Match your choice to your lifestyle
Besides the result you want, it’s important to think about your daily routine. Different extension methods require different maintenance and offer different wear times.
If you’re looking for a quick change for special occasions, clip-in hair, ponytails and fringes are a great choice. If you prefer a longer-lasting solution and don’t want to put them in and take them out every day, you can go for wefts, tape-ins or keratin bonds.
The right method is the one that fits naturally into your lifestyle and makes you feel comfortable every day.
5. Get informed before you decide
One of the most common mistakes with first extensions is choosing hair or a method without enough information. Many people go for a certain option just because they saw a good result on someone else or came across an attractive price.
The truth is that every head of hair is different. A method that’s perfect for one woman may not be the best choice for another. That’s why we always recommend doing your research, asking questions and consulting a specialist when you’re not sure which option suits you best.
The better you understand the different types of hair, installation methods and maintenance requirements, the easier it will be to make the right choice and be happy with the final result.
6. Which method is best for beginners?
- Clip-in hair – The easiest and most affordable option for first extensions. You put them in and take them out yourself, with no need to visit a hairdresser.
- Wefts with beads – A suitable method for those looking for a longer-lasting solution and more volume. We recommend Slavic hair for this method.
- Tape-ins – A discreet, comfortable method that blends naturally with your hair and is suitable even for finer hair.
- Keratin bonds – One of the most natural and long-lasting methods of hair extension.
Our recommendation for first-time extensions
If you’ve never worn extensions before, the easiest way to start is with clip-in hair. It lets you get used to the extra volume and length without visiting a hairdresser or making a long-term commitment.
If you already know you want a more permanent result, you can go for tape-ins, wefts or keratin bonds, depending on your hair type and lifestyle.
7. How long do the different methods last?
Duration depends on the method you choose, as well as on maintenance and how fast your hair grows.
As a guide:
- Clip-ins – put in and taken out daily as needed.
- Wefts with beads – usually maintained about every 4 weeks.
- Sewn-in wefts – about 6 weeks before maintenance.
- Tape-ins – usually maintained every 6–8 weeks.
- Keratin bonds – can be worn for about 3–4 months with proper care.
Keep in mind that these timeframes are approximate and depend on how you wear them, how you care for your hair and your individual hair growth.
8. What hair should I choose?
- Indian hair – Indian hair offers an excellent balance between quality and price and is a suitable choice for those just getting to know the world of extensions.
- Slavic hair – Slavic hair is finer, softer and as close as possible to the structure of European hair. It’s a preferred choice for everyday wear and long-term use.
- Virgin hair – Virgin hair is unprocessed, extremely durable and keeps its natural look for a long time with proper care. Because of its natural origin, the color range is limited to natural dark brown shades.
9. Will extensions damage my hair?
This is one of the questions beginners ask most often.
With correct installation, quality hair and good maintenance, extensions themselves do not damage your natural hair. Even the highest-quality natural hair won’t look good if it’s installed incorrectly. Using the wrong amount of hair, placing the wefts unevenly or installing them too close to the scalp can lead to discomfort and an unnatural result. That’s why, for longer-lasting methods, we always recommend installation by an experienced specialist who can determine the right amount of hair and the best placement for your natural hair.
The most common problems arise from incorrect installation, the wrong amount of hair or a lack of regular maintenance.
10. How to make your extensions last longer
Proper care is one of the most important factors in how long your hair keeps its softness, shine and beautiful look.
- Use hydrating products
Choose a sulfate-free and paraben-free shampoo and conditioner that help retain moisture in the hair and keep it soft and vibrant. - Nourish regularly
Use a hair mask 1–2 times a week. Products with keratin, argan oil or macadamia oil keep hair soft, smooth and shiny while strengthening its structure. - Always use heat protection
Apply a heat protectant before using a flat iron, curling iron or hair dryer. It protects both your own hair and your extensions from drying out, breakage and damage caused by high temperatures. - Brush gently
Use a brush with soft, flexible bristles or a special extension brush. Brush gently, starting from the ends and gradually working your way up. - Styling products
Styling products such as hairsprays, gels and mousses should also be chosen carefully. Look for alcohol-free products, as alcohol dries out hair and can cause extensions to break. - Wash properly
Wash your extensions 2 to 3 times a week, or after every 10–15 wears, with lukewarm water, depending on how often you wear them and how active you are during the day. Apply shampoo gently, without rubbing aggressively. Then use a conditioner or mask and rinse thoroughly. - Don’t sleep with wet hair
Wet hair is more prone to tangling and breakage. Always dry your hair well before going to bed. - Avoid overloading
Although natural hair can be shaped and styled like your own, excessive use of heat tools can shorten its life. Try to use your flat iron, curling iron and hair dryer at a moderate temperature and always apply heat protection first.
Also avoid hairstyles that are too tight, as they can put extra tension on the attachment points. This is especially important with longer-lasting methods such as wefts, tape-ins and keratin bonds.
The more carefully you look after your hair day to day, the longer it will keep its softness, shine and natural look.
- Be careful at the sea and the pool
Swimming in the sea or a pool can damage your extensions. Salt and chlorine dry out the hair and can affect the attachment, since the hair has been cut and has lost its natural hydration.
To protect your hair:
Wet your hair with clean water before swimming
Rinse thoroughly after swimming and brush gently
Never leave wet hair with extensions braided or tied tightly
❗ Remember that extensions don’t receive natural nourishment from the scalp like your own hair does. That’s exactly why regular hydration and careful maintenance are so important for their beauty and longevity.
11. The most common mistakes with first extensions
❌ Choosing too little hair
❌ Choosing based on price alone
❌ Mismatching the color
❌ Choosing a method that doesn’t suit your lifestyle
❌ Skipping regular maintenance
❌ Neglecting daily care
Your first extensions shouldn’t be complicated. With the right hair, a suitable method and good maintenance, you can enjoy a beautiful, natural and comfortable look from day one.
At MyHair, we believe every woman deserves to feel confident in her hair. That’s why we’re here to help you make the best choice for your needs, lifestyle and expectations for the final result ❤️
- Discover more useful articles from Hair Essentials:
Write a comment