Scroll through Instagram and chances are, you’ll probably be inundated with a hair extension ad or two from a brand promising easy application and beautiful results even Rapunzel would envy. But, where do you start when it comes to looking for hair extensions? With so many options on the market, it can be daunting to know if you’re ordering good hair or just a flammable ball of scraps. That’s where I, a hair extension enthusiast and wearer for 14-plus years, comes in.
I’ve compiled a list of the eight best online hair extension brands I’ve worn and loved. Before you place your next bundle order, get familiar with a few terms that will help guide your hair journey.
What are human hair extensions? They are made out of real human hair collected from a donor’s head.
What is 100 percent virgin hair? Virgin hair that has not been processed, dyed, or treated. This is the purest form of hair extensions.
What are synthetic hair extensions? Synthetic hair is made from synthetic blended fibers and does not contain any human hair. Synthetic hair is often made from plastic fine fibers that imitate human hair.
What are clip-in extensions? Clip-in extensions are temporary pre-clipped pieces of hair you apply around the head to create a fuller look while still utilizing your natural hair. Here’s a helpful guide on clip-in hair extensions.
What are sew-in extensions? The classic weave. Hair is braided tightly into cornrows throughout the entire head and extensions are attached using a needle and thread.
What are tape-in extensions? Tape-in method of hair extensions involves taping each weft of hair onto your own hair. Your hair is clamped between the wefts using tape.
What are glue-in extensions? Glue extensions are attached to the hair with keratin bonds and fused with hot tools.
Now that you’ve got the basics down, shop eight of the best online extension brands on the market below.