15 of The Biggest Hair Extension Myths: Busted by Experts

Over the years, the popularity of hair extensions has skyrocketed. And why wouldn't they? Cover up a bad haircut? Check. Long-lasting, lengthy hair without the hassle of waiting for it to grow? Check. There are endless benefits, and for the most part, you just can't say no. But with every major hair or beauty trend, there's always the occasional myth floating around in the industry — and we're up for the challenge when it comes to debunking them. Here's 15 hair myths that our experts have busted for hair lovers everywhere:

1. "People Will Be Able to See Hair Extensions"

A common fear that deters most people off hair extensions is that they'll be visible. This is only true when using low-quality hair extensions and poorly fitting them. With our Colour Match service, our premium quality hair extensions are matched to your current hair colour by hair colourists and styling professionals for a natural finish that blends in with your natural hair. With our colour-matched seamless clip-in hair extensions, your fitted hair will be practically impossible to notice!

2. "Hair Extensions Don't Look Natural"

If you think hair extensions don't look natural, think again. It's very simple to achieve unnoticeable extensions — all you need are hair extensions that match your natural colour — or, if you have highlights, a shade or two lighter (or darker) will blend well.

The right hair extensions will blend just perfectly with your hair. Hair extensions only really look out of place if you purchase them from untrusted, unrecognised brands. Clip in hair extensions are great for adding length and volume, while tape hair extensions on the other hand are a great longer-lasting solution, and are more suitable for fine or thin hair. What's more, tape hair extensions are less bulky and don't tend to weigh your hair down, leaving your hair full yet voluminous.

Find out the different types of hair extensions and the differences between clip in and permanent extensions to help you decide which type is right for you and your lifestyle.

3. "Hair Extensions Will Damage Hair"

@louisasarah.uk

Good hair extensions shouldn't cause any damage to your natural hair. Women with average and thicker hair types can wear extensions with extra weight, volume and length for fairly long amounts of time with zero damage whatsoever, particularly for special events like weddings. Although this isn't always true for those with thinner or finer hair. Before taking the leap, you'll need to research and purchase from only trusted and recognised brands with good reviews as cheaper, poorly made hair extensions can cause damage and potentially more stress on your scalp in the long term, especially if your hair is fragile. Needless to say, it's worth the investment for the seamless look. Explore our guide on which hair extensions are least damaging to find out everything you need to know on choosing the right set for you.

4. "Hair Won't Grow Whilst Wearing Hair Extensions"

@larabethanyhair

Whether you're using clip in hair extensions, tape, bonds, weaves or fusions, hair extensions will definitely not stop your hair growth. Hair extensions attach close to your roots, like regular hair clips, and grow with your natural hair. Ever Googled "what to do if I have a bad haircut?" — then you should know that hair extensions come up as the number one solution. So, go rock those luscious locks while the real thing grows back in the meantime.

5. "Hair Extensions are Difficult to Maintain"

Like natural hair, extensions require maintenance and regular washing. Most extensions need washing every six to eight times per use. This can be achieved by simply removing them from your hair and combing out the tangles before washing. Permanent hair extensions can stay in for up to a year with maintenance every 2-3 months.

6. "Hair Extensions are Expensive"

This is definitely not always the case. With the rise in their popularity, hair extensions have become more accessible than ever. Even though the cost of extensions will vary depending on the method you use, the thickness and the length — permanent hair extensions can last up to a year with only a couple of monthly checks, so low to minimal upkeep spend. Alternatively, if you don't want permanent extensions, you can always opt for clip-ins that can be worn and removed as and when you require.

7. "Hair Extensions are Uncomfortable"

Although wearing extensions and attachments can take a little while to get used to at first, soon enough, you won't even realise you're wearing them. This is especially true for lighter wefts and lightweight permanent extensions like nano rings as they move so gracefully and effortlessly with your natural hair.

8. "Women with Short Hair Can't Wear Hair Extensions"

@ashleyleehair

For all our short haired queens — this couldn't be further from the truth. If your hair is on the shorter side, you'll be pleased to know that we offer clip in and permanent hair extensions in a variety of lengths, with our shortest length being our 12 inch clip ins — the perfect addition to a bob or shoulder length hair for longer, luscious, fuller tresses.

9. "Women with Thin Hair Can't Wear Hair Extensions"

@smallybelle

If you find yourself struggling with hair thinning, hair loss or damaged hair, whether this may be from hormones, a hereditary condition, chemotherapy or simply not caring for your hair properly for extended periods — just know, this isn't where your hair journey ends. The hair extension market has endless options for people who lack confidence when it comes to their hair, offering multi-piece clip in extensions, halo hair extensions, one-piece clip ins like top ups, fringes, ponytails, as well as hair toppers and wigs. There's a solution out there for everyone!

10. "Hair Extensions Can't Be Dyed"

@amyjanegarrity

This is by far one of the biggest hair myths out there. Yes, you can dye, treat and colour your hair extensions at home or have a professional hairstylist do so, but we advise to do it if only completely necessary. Blonde hair extensions and hair extensions that are comprised of lighter shades have already undergone an intense bleaching and toning process, so it's important to not expose the extensions to it again out of risk of damaging and destroying the quality and overall look and feel of the hair.

11. "All Hair Extensions Are Synthetic"

@kyaheljadi

No, not all hair extensions are synthetic. In fact, many hair extension brands, including ours, solely sell 100% Remy hair, meaning our extensions are made entirely from high quality human hair that has been ethically sourced and donated by individuals from around the globe. However, it is true that synthetic hair extensions have a bit of a rocky reputation as they lack the silky, soft quality that human hair has. Synthetic extensions are also more difficult to style as wearers aren't allowed to apply heat to them. They also lack the versatility and natural texture of human hair, including curly clip in extensions.

12. "Horse Hair is Used for Extensions"

This may seem like a completely ridiculous statement — but many people are led to believe it. As mentioned above, the majority of hair extension brands use 100% human hair, with others choosing to sell synthetic hair as it's cheaper to produce. The truth is — no reputable or ethical hair extension brand would ever market animal hair to their customers, so we encourage you to do your research carefully and always opt for brands that sell and advocate for human hair extensions.

13. "You Can't Sleep Whilst Wearing Hair Extensions"

@lucygraybill

This isn't a myth as such — as this statement is in fact half-true. If you wear permanent hair extensions that have been professionally installed like tape ins, weaves or nanos, then you can absolutely sleep in your hair extensions, as they have been attached for the long-term. However, when it comes to clip ins, it is strictly advised to remove your clip ins before sleeping — and showering — as this can cause serious matting, tangling and damage that you definitely don't want.

14. "You Can't Wear Hair Extensions Up"

@mphairartist

Although it may be a surprise to some, there are definitely some hair extension types you can wear that remain discreet and blend seamlessly when your locks are swept into an updo like a ponytail, braid or bun. Clip in ponytails, for one, are an easy and totally subtle way to enhance a regular pony. Top up pieces can also be added to buns and updos for more texture and volume. And when it comes to permanent extensions, nano rings are the number one best way to wear an updo without giving away your little secret due to their tiny attachments.

15. "Hair Extensions Should Only Be Worn on Special Occasions"

@ruthyoungx

Hair extensions, styling and accessories can be worn for all occasions, all events, all year round — and quite frankly, whenever you want. There are no rules when it comes to looking and feeling good. Pop in some clip in bangs before your dinner with the girls, apply a top up piece to add more volume before a big meeting at work, a clip in ponytail for when you're at the gym, or simply start the month off with a whole new set of professional hair extensions so you can take on each day in style. When it comes to Cliphair, every day is a good hair day.

Conclusion

There you go — 15 of the most common hair extension myths — busted and debunked by yours truly! If it's your first time purchasing hair extensions or you're a bit of a beginner when it comes to hairstyling or haircare, we encourage you to do as much research as possible when it comes to selecting to the best hair methods for your locks. Consider hair type, texture, lifestyle, your own personal budget, and what you want to achieve aesthetically when it comes to your hair.

Looking for flawless, salon-worthy hair without breaking the bank? At Cliphair, we’ve got you covered with luxurious clip in hair extensions for quick transformations and permanent hair extensions for long-lasting glam. Extensions require special care and maintenance to preserve their quality, which is why we have all the  top-notch hydrating haircare products needed to keep your style on point.

Need the perfect shade? Browse our full range of human hair extensions in over 70 rich, silky shades or check out our FREE Express Colour Match Service to ensure a seamless blend every time.