Hair Extension Methods
There are several different ways to add length, volume or colour with hair extensions, and the right method depends on whether you want a professionally fitted semi-permanent system or something you can apply and remove yourself.
HairXtensions offers individual strand extensions, tape-ins, hair wefts and removable clip-in hairpieces. Use this guide to compare the different methods before choosing your range.
Quick guide: choose Clip-Ins, Ponytails or a Clip-In Fringe if you want a removable option. For professionally fitted extensions, compare Nail-Tips, Stick-Tips, Nano-Tips, Micro-Loops, Tape-Ins and Hair Wefts according to the attachment method and finished result you're looking for.
Which Hair Extension Method Should I Choose?
I Want Removable Extensions
Start with Clip-In Sets, Ponytails or Clip-In Fringes. These are designed to be applied and removed without a permanent salon fitting.
I Want Individual Strands Without Adhesive
Compare Stick-Tip, Micro-Loop and Nano-Tip extensions, which use ring-based attachment systems rather than adhesive tape or keratin bonds.
I Want Keratin Bonds
Nail-Tip / U-Tip extensions use pre-attached keratin tips that are heated and shaped around sections of the natural hair by a trained fitter.
I Want Tapes or a Weft
Tape-Ins use flat adhesive tabs, while Hair Wefts provide a continuous track of hair that can be professionally installed using an appropriate weave or weft technique.
Hair Extension Method Comparison
| Method | Type | Attachment | Fitting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nail-Tip / U-Tip | Semi-permanent | Keratin bond + heat | Professional |
| Stick-Tip / I-Tip | Semi-permanent | Micro rings | Professional |
| Nano-Tip | Semi-permanent | Nano rings | Professional |
| Micro-Loop | Semi-permanent | Pre-attached loop & ring | Professional |
| Tape-In | Semi-permanent | Adhesive tape tabs | Professional |
| Hair Weft | Semi-permanent | Continuous weft / track | Professional |
| Clip-In Sets | Removable | Clips | Self-fit |
| Ponytails | Removable | Clip attachment | Self-fit |
| Clip-In Fringe | Removable | Clips | Self-fit |
Nail-Tip / U-Tip
Nail-Tip extensions are individual strands with a pre-attached keratin bond. A heat connector softens the bond so a professional fitter can shape it around a small section of natural hair.
Attachment: Keratin bond
Heat: Used during fitting
Removal: Professional removal recommended
Stick-Tip / I-Tip
Stick-Tip extensions are individual strands designed to be secured to the natural hair using small micro rings. The ring is positioned and closed using suitable hair-extension pliers.
Attachment: Micro rings
Adhesive: Not required for micro-ring fitting
Removal: Rings are reopened using suitable pliers
Nano-Tip
Nano-Tip extensions use individual strands with a small metal tip that is secured using nano rings. The attachment is smaller than a traditional micro-ring fitting.
Attachment: Nano rings
Adhesive: Not required
Fitting: Professional fitting recommended
Micro-Loop
Micro-Loop extensions have a loop and ring already attached to each strand. The loop helps draw the natural hair through before the ring is positioned and secured.
Attachment: Pre-attached micro ring
Adhesive: Not required
Fitting: Professional fitting recommended
Tape-In
Tape-In extensions use thin adhesive tabs that are fitted around sections of natural hair. Their flat attachment makes them a popular salon option for adding length and volume.
Attachment: Adhesive tape tabs
Heat: Not required for normal application
Removal: Correct tape remover required
Hair Wefts & Weaves
A hair weft is a continuous track of extension hair rather than individual strands. Wefts can be professionally installed using different weave techniques depending on the fitter and chosen method.
Format: Continuous hair weft
Fitting: Several professional methods available
Removal: Depends on the installation technique
Clip-In Hair Extensions
Clip-In extensions are removable weft pieces with clips attached. They can be fitted at home in minutes and removed again when you no longer want to wear them.
Attachment: Clips
Salon fitting: Not normally required
Wear: Remove before sleeping
Clip-In Ponytails
Ponytail extensions are designed to add instant length and volume to an existing ponytail. They are removable, reusable and ideal when you want a quick style change without a semi-permanent fitting.
Type: Removable hairpiece
Salon fitting: Not required
Use: Instant ponytail length and volume
Clip-In Fringe
A Clip-In Fringe lets you experiment with a fringe or bangs without cutting your natural hair. The piece clips into position and can be removed whenever you want to change your style.
Attachment: 3 clips
Salon fitting: Not normally required
Style: Removable fringe / bangs
Professional Fitting & Removal
Nail-Tip, Stick-Tip, Nano-Tip, Micro-Loop, Tape-In and professionally installed Hair Weft methods should be fitted, maintained and removed correctly by someone trained and experienced in the chosen technique.
Correct section size, placement, tension, maintenance and removal all matter. Never force, pull or cut out a fitted extension if you're unsure how the attachment should be removed.
Fitting & Removal Guides
View our step-by-step fitting and removal information for the extension methods we stock.
View GuidesChoose Your Colour
Compare our hair-extension shades before ordering to help find the closest match for your natural hair.
Colour ChartHair Extension Aftercare
Proper maintenance is important once fitted extensions are installed. Read our aftercare guidance before use.
Aftercare AdviceNot sure which method is right for you? Consider whether you want something removable or semi-permanent, how you want the extensions attached, your normal styling routine and the maintenance required. A professional extension fitter can also assess your natural hair before recommending a fitted method.
Hair Extension Methods FAQs
Which hair extensions can I fit myself?
Clip-In Sets, Ponytails and Clip-In Fringes are designed as removable options that can normally be fitted at home. Semi-permanent extension methods are better suited to professional fitting and removal.
Which methods don't use adhesive?
Stick-Tip extensions fitted with micro rings, Nano-Tips and Micro-Loops use ring-based attachment systems rather than adhesive. Clip-Ins, Ponytails and Clip-In Fringes are also attached mechanically rather than with adhesive.
Which method uses keratin bonds?
Nail-Tip / U-Tip extensions have a pre-attached keratin bond that is softened with a hair-extension heat connector during professional fitting.
What is the difference between Stick-Tip and Micro-Loop extensions?
Stick-Tips are separate extension strands that are fitted using separately selected micro rings. Micro-Loop extensions already have a loop and ring attached to help with installation.
What is the difference between Tape-Ins and Hair Wefts?
Tape-Ins use individual flat adhesive sections, while a Hair Weft is a continuous track of extension hair that can be installed using an appropriate professional weft or weave technique.
Do fitted hair extensions need maintenance?
Yes. Semi-permanent extensions require suitable aftercare and regular professional maintenance as the natural hair grows and the attachments move away from the scalp.
Can I sleep in Clip-In hair extensions?
We recommend removing Clip-In extensions before sleeping. They are intended as a removable hair-extension method rather than a semi-permanent fitting.
Ready to Find Your Hair Extension Method?
Compare the options above, check your colour match and read the relevant fitting and aftercare guidance before ordering your chosen hair-extension range.
Choose Your Colour Fitting & Removal Guides