How Long Do Clip In Hair Extensions Last? Full Guide
Apr
Clip-in hair extensions are a popular choice for adding length and volume without the commitment of permanent options. Many wonder, “How long do clip in hair extensions last?” The lifespan depends on several important factors. In this blog post, Unihairvn will dive deeper into what influences their longevity.
Types of Clip In Hair Extensions
When exploring how long do clip in hair extensions last, it’s essential to understand the types available — as the material and construction directly impact their longevity.
Human hair vs synthetic clip in extensions
Clip-in hair extensions generally have two main types: human hair and synthetic.
Extensions made from real human hair offer a more natural look and feel, and they can be styled with heat tools like curling irons or straighteners. They’re also more durable.
Synthetic extensions, while usually more budget-friendly, don’t hold up as well to heat styling and typically have a shorter lifespan.
Temporary vs semi-permanent clip ins
Clip-ins can also be categorized by how long you intend to wear them. Temporary clip-in extensions are meant for occasional use and can be easily applied and removed at home.
In contrast, semi-permanent or professionally installed clip-ins are designed for more extended wear. Interestingly, temporary clip-ins often last longer overall, since they aren’t exposed to daily wear and tear.
Factors Affect The Clip In Hair Extensions Longevity
Before getting to know how long do clip in hair extensions last, let’s take a look at what affects the clip in hair extensions longevity.
Hair extension quality
The durability of clip-in extensions heavily depends on the type and quality of hair used. Extensions made from real human hair, particularly Remy hair, where the cuticles are preserved and aligned are known for their longevity and ability to handle styling and washing better than synthetic options.
While high-quality extensions may cost more upfront, they often prove to be a better investment since they don’t need to be replaced as frequently.
How often you wear them – How long do clip in hair extensions last
Your usage habits can greatly impact how long your clip ins last. Wearing them every day exposes the hair to heat styling, weather, and products, all of which can speed up wear and tear.
If you use them occasionally, they’ll stay in better shape for a longer period since they’re not being constantly stressed.
Application and removal methods
Wondering how long can I leave clip in extensions in or how long can you keep clip in extensions? Proper handling plays a huge role in the answer.
How you put in and take out your extensions also affects their lifespan. Handling your extensions gently during application and removal helps protect both the extensions and your natural hair from damage.
Avoid pulling or yanking, as this can wear down the clips and break the hair strands over time.
Read on to see how long do clip in hair extensions last.
How Long Do Clip In Hair Extensions Last?
Hair extensions are a real investment, especially when they’re made from premium, 100% human hair. Naturally, it’s important to understand how long they’ll last before making a purchase.
One key thing to keep in mind is that synthetic extensions typically don’t hold up as well over time. While they might be more budget-friendly, they usually need to be replaced sooner. Plus, their overly glossy finish can sometimes give away that they’re not real hair.
Clip-in human hair extensions can last up to a year if you take care of them properly. However, frequent use and neglecting maintenance can shorten their lifespan significantly.
A common mistake is assuming that, because they’re not growing from your scalp, they don’t need care, when in fact, they require extra attention to stay in great shape.
Compared to synthetic options, human hair clip-ins are much more durable. They can handle heat styling and regular brushing better than synthetic fibers, which are more prone to damage.
On the other hand, synthetic clip-ins generally only last around 2 to 3 months, especially if they’re being worn, washed, and styled often.
How to Make Clip In Hair Extensions Last Longer?
After finding the perfect style of hair extensions that suits your lifestyle or desired look, taking proper care of them is key to making them last and keeping them looking flawless.
So how long can I keep clip in hair extensions? To help you maintain that just-applied, salon-fresh appearance, our in-house hair extension specialists have shared their top tips for long-lasting, beautiful results.
Be gentle during removal
When taking out your clip-in extensions, handle them with care. Pulling them out too quickly can damage both your natural hair and the extension clips.
Sometimes, strands of your own hair can get caught in the clips, removing them roughly can cause breakage or even pull out the hair. Rushing the process can also weaken or detach the hair from the clip itself, meaning you’ll have to replace your extensions sooner than expected.
Limit washing
Unlike natural hair, clip-in extensions don’t absorb oils from your scalp, so they don’t require frequent washing. Washing them once or twice a month is usually enough.
When you do wash them, stick to gentle, sulfate- and paraben-free products to avoid drying them out. And be sure to apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage if you use heat to style your extensions.
Brush with care
Always detangle your extensions before and after wearing them. This prevents knots and matting, which can cause breakage over time. Use a brush specifically designed for hair extensions to reduce tugging and pulling.
And remember, never brush them while they’re wet. Allow them to air dry first, and always make sure they’re completely dry before storing.
Store properly
How you store your extensions can greatly impact their condition. After removing them, gently brush them out and make sure the clips are closed. You can hang them up or store them in a clean, dry bag or box that protects against dust, sunlight, and humidity.
For added protection, consider securing the wefts near the top with a soft hair tie before placing them into storage.
That’s all for how long can you keep clip in hair extensions in.
When to Replace Your Clip-In Hair Extensions?
Even the best extensions won’t last forever—and if you’ve been wondering how long do clip in hair extensions last, the answer often lies in how they look and feel over time.
If your clip-ins are feeling dry, tangled, or lifeless, it might be time to retire them. While it’s tempting to stretch their lifespan, certain signs indicate it’s better to invest in a fresh set.
Dryness and frizz
These two are among the biggest signs that your extensions are nearing the end of their lifespan. Overuse of heat tools and skipping proper conditioning can dry out the strands.
Frizz can also build up from constant exposure to sun, humidity, or harsh weather. While a deep conditioning treatment might offer temporary relief, it can only do so much once the damage is done.
Tangles and matting
When your extensions become tough to brush through and tangle easily, even after detangling sprays or wide-tooth combs, it’s a red flag. Excessive matting isn’t just frustrating, it’s a clear sign that the hair is breaking down.
If brushing feels more like a battle and you find yourself dealing with bird’s nest-level knots, it’s likely time to say goodbye and replace them.
Shedding and split ends
Just like your natural hair, extensions can develop split ends and start shedding with regular use. Unfortunately, you can’t just book a trim for your clip-ins, once they begin shedding excessively or splitting at the ends, there’s no real fix. These signs are usually more obvious on extensions, making replacement the most practical solution.
Dullness and product buildup
If your extensions start feeling heavy, greasy, or sticky no matter how many times you wash them, you’re likely dealing with product buildup.
Styling products can accumulate over time, and eventually, the hair loses its shine and becomes difficult to manage. When deep cleaning doesn’t restore softness or bounce, it’s probably time to invest in a new set.
Knowing how long clip in hair extensions last helps you plan your hair routine and budget wisely. With proper care, human hair clip-ins can last up to a year—but when the quality fades, don’t hesitate to upgrade for that fresh, flawless look.
Conclusion
Now that you have a better understanding of how long do clip in hair extensions last, it’s clear that quality and care make all the difference. By investing in premium extensions and maintaining them properly, you can enjoy fuller, more gorgeous hair for months to come.
At How long do clip in hair extensions last, we offer top-quality extensions tailored to your hair needs. Feel free to reach out to us today – we’re here to help you find the perfect match at the best price!
