Hair Knowledge
Everything You Need to Know Before Choosing Clip In Hair Extensions
Clip in hair extension is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly ways to add instant volume and length to your natural hair. Whether you’re getting ready for a special event or just want to change your look without a long-term commitment, clip-ins offer versatility, ease of use, and a natural finish—if you choose the right type.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before buying clip in hair extensions: from choosing the right length and weight to understanding hair types and how to ensure a seamless blend.
What Are Clip In Hair Extensions?
Clip in hair extensions are wefts of hair that come with small, secure clips attached at the base. These clips snap open and shut, allowing you to attach the extensions to your natural hair in minutes—no glue, heat, or salon visit required.
They are perfect for:
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Beginners in the world of hair extensions
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People looking for temporary volume or length
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Those who don’t want to commit to semi-permanent options like tape-ins or keratin bonds
Benefits of Clip In Hair Extensions
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Easy to Use: Apply and remove them at home without help.
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Non-Damaging: No chemicals or heat involved.
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Flexible Styling: Wear them when you want, take them off at night.
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Affordable: Cost-effective compared to other types of hair extensions.
How to Choose the Right Length
Selecting the correct length for your clip in hair extension is essential for achieving a seamless and natural look. Here’s how to make the right choice based on your hair and desired results:
Measure Correctly
To determine the best length for you, measure from the top of your ear (or where you typically place the extensions) down to where you want the hair to fall. Use a measuring tape or ruler to get an accurate estimate.
Understand How Hair Length Translates
Hair extension lengths are typically measured when the hair is straight.
This means that if you choose wavy or curly extensions, the actual visible length will appear shorter than the listed length.
A simple example:
If you purchase 20-inch hair extensions, that length refers to when the hair is completely straight.
However, if the hair is styled into large curls, the visible length may shrink to around 17–18 inches due to the natural curl pattern.
So, if you prefer wavy or curly hairstyles, it’s a good idea to choose slightly longer extensions to ensure they still look the desired length after styling.
Length Guide by Hair Height
Use the guide below to visualize where different lengths typically fall on the body (note: individual height affects results slightly):
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12 inches: Sits around shoulder level – great for adding volume to short hair.
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14 inches: Just past the shoulders – subtle length enhancement.
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16 inches: Hits the upper chest – one of the most natural and popular choices.
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18 inches: Falls mid-chest – adds significant length while still blending naturally.
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20 inches: Reaches the bust line – ideal for a fuller, longer style.
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22–24 inches: Falls near the lower ribs or waist – a dramatic, glamorous look.
If you’re unsure between two lengths, it’s safer to go longer—you can always have them trimmed by a stylist to suit your haircut.
Consider Your Natural Hair Length
To blend seamlessly:
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If you have short or blunt hair, you’ll need longer extensions with more weight (grams) to create a smooth transition.
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If your hair is medium or layered, blending is easier and you can go with lighter sets.
Pro Tip: Consider Layering
If your natural hair has layers, consider layering your extensions to match. You can even take them to a stylist to custom-cut for the most natural effect.
Choosing the Right Hair Type
Clip in hair extensions are usually made from:
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Synthetic Hair: Affordable, but limited in heat styling and durability.
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Remy Human Hair: The highest quality; cuticles are aligned, looks natural, and can be styled with heat tools.
If you want the most natural finish and styling freedom, opt for Remy human hair clip in extensions.
How to Match Hair Texture and Color
A perfect match in color and texture is crucial for seamless blending.
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Color Match: Choose a shade closest to your mid-length and ends, not the roots.
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Texture Match: Match with your natural texture—straight, wavy, or curly.
Many suppliers offer color matching services or swatch samples—don’t hesitate to ask.
What Weight (Thickness) Should You Choose?
The weight of the extensions (usually in grams) affects how full they look.
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100–120g: Light to medium thickness, ideal for fine hair.
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140–160g: Adds noticeable volume, works for medium hair.
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180–220g: Best for thick or short hair that needs more blending coverage.
Choosing too little weight for thick hair can result in uneven, unnatural blending.
How to Blend Clip In Hair Extensions Naturally
Here are tips to ensure your extensions look flawless:
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Tease the roots slightly where you clip them in for stronger grip.
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Curl or straighten your natural hair and extensions together for uniform texture.
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Use layers to help blend the wefts into your natural cut.
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Always style after clipping them in—not before.
How Long Do Clip In Hair Extensions Last?
With proper care, Remy human hair clip in extensions can last:
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6 to 12 months with regular use
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Even longer if you wear them occasionally and maintain them well
Tips to extend their lifespan:
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Brush gently before and after wearing
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Store them flat or in a silk bag
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Use sulfate-free shampoo if you wash them
Final Tips Before You Buy
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Always check customer reviews before choosing a clip in hair extension supplier.
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Ask for return/exchange policies in case the color or texture doesn’t match.
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If possible, start with a single weft to test before buying a full set.
Conclusion
Choosing the right clip in hair extension isn’t just about length or color—it’s about finding a product that fits your lifestyle, hair type, and styling needs. By understanding the options available and knowing how to measure and match properly, you’ll ensure your extensions look as natural and beautiful as possible.
