Hair extensions are a popular way to add length, volume, and style to your natural hair. Clip in extensions are a temporary option that can be put in and taken out as needed. But how long do clip in hair extensions really last before they need to be replaced? Here is an in-depth look at the lifespan and durability of clip in extensions.
What are Clip In Hair Extensions?
Clip in hair extensions are pieces of artificial or human hair that clip into your own natural hair using small, pressure-sensitive clips. They provide an instant way to change your hairstyle for a day or evening. Clip ins can be purchased in a variety of lengths and colors to match your natural shade.
Some key advantages of clip in extensions include:
- Temporary – Put them in and take them out whenever you want
- Damage-free – Don’t require glues, tapes, or heat that can damage hair
- Versatile – Available in multiple lengths and colors
- Affordable – Tend to cost less than semi-permanent extensions
- Easy to use – Can be put in and removed in minutes
What Impacts How Long Clip Ins Last?
There are several factors that influence the lifespan of clip in hair extensions:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Hair quality | High quality human hair will last longer than synthetic fiber hair |
| Hair texture | Coarse, curly, or chemically treated hair may damage extensions faster |
| Clip tightness | Clips that are too tight can pull out hair and damage extensions |
| Heat styling | Frequent high heat from blow drying, curling, or straightening reduces lifespan |
| Maintenance | Proper storage, washing, and handling makes extensions last longer |
The quality of the hair and how you treat it once clipped in plays the biggest role in extension longevity. Taking steps to gently brush, wash, and store your clip-ins will help maximize their lifespan.
How Often Should You Replace Clip In Extensions?
With proper care and maintenance, here is how often you can expect to replace your clip in hair extensions:
| Extension Type | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Synthetic hair | 3-6 months |
| Real human hair | 6-12 months |
| Tape-in extensions | 2-4 months |
| Fusion extensions | 4-6 months |
As you can see, human hair clip-ins typically last about twice as long as synthetic extensions. And because clip-ins don’t require permanent installation methods, they tend to outlast tape-in or fusion extensions as well.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Clip Ins
Here are some signs it’s time to retire your old clip in extensions and purchase new ones:
- Hair quality is rough, dry, or brittle
- Extensions are tangled and prone to matting
- Color has significantly faded or darkened
- Cuts, splits, or fraying ends are present
- Shedding increases dramatically
- Clips have become loose or pop open
- Sections feel thin or bald spots are visible
- Natural hair gets pulled or damaged when removing
As soon as you notice any of these issues, it’s time to replace the extensions. Leaving damaged or aging extensions in too long can start to negatively affect your natural hair underneath.
Tips to Make Clip Ins Last Longer
Here are some tips to extend the lifespan of your clip in hair extensions:
- Detangle gently: Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to gently separate knots or tangles. Never aggressively brush.
- Wash occasionally: Rinse extensions 1-2 times per month with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
- Air dry: Pat dry with a towel and allow to fully air dry. Limit heat styling tools.
- Use lower heat: If heat styling, keep temperatures under 300°F to prevent damage.
- Take breaks: Give your hair a break by wearing the clips in a few days a week rather than daily.
- Store properly: Keep unused extensions smooth and untangled in sealed plastic bags.
- Avoid oils: Oil-based products can reduce grip of clip teeth over time.
Being extra gentle with brushing, washing, drying, and storing your extensions goes a long way in extending their lifespan!
Clip In vs. Other Extension Methods
Here’s how the longevity of clip-ins compares to other popular extension methods:
| Extension Method | Process | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clip In | Clipped into natural hair |
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| Tape In | Taped to natural hair |
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| Fusion | Bonded with keratin/glue |
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As you can see, clip-ins offer the benefit of being temporary and damage-free, at the cost of shorter longevity compared to semi-permanent methods.
Finding High Quality Clip In Extensions
The quality of the hair is one of the biggest factors determining how long your clip-ins will last. Here’s what to look for when shopping:
- 100% Remy human hair – Made from donated, single-source hair that lasts longer.
- Ethically sourced – Avoid hair of questionable origin or obtained unethically.
- Minimum processing – Color and texture should be natural with minimal chemical processing.
- Reputable brands – Stick to salon-quality brands with good reviews.
- Variety of shades – Extensions should blend seamlessly with multiple natural hair colors.
Investing a few extra dollars in premium, ethically sourced Remy hair will pay off in extensions that last significantly longer before needing replacement!
The Bottom Line
With proper maintenance and high quality hair, clip in extensions typically last between 6-12 months before needing to be replaced. Synthetic hair will degrade faster at around 3-6 months. Compare this to 2-4 months for tape-ins and 4-6 months for fusion extensions.
Make your clip-ins last as long as possible by handling gently, washing occasionally, air drying, and storing properly when not in use. And be on the lookout for signs like tangling, shedding, and breakage which indicate it’s time to retire your extensions.
Clip in hair extensions provide an affordable, damage-free way to temporarily transform your look. Taking a few precautions will help ensure your extensions last for many months of wear!
