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11 Best At-Home Hair Extensions to Take Your Mane Game to the Next Level

 

Luxy Hair is our top pick thanks to its range of lengths and colors

When it comes to switching up your hairstyle, hair extensions are a great option for an immediate — and noticeable — change. Given that hair typically grows about six inches per year, it can take a while to achieve natural Rapunzel status, but with the array of at-home extensions available, you can live out your princess dreams in a snap.

Of course, shopping for hair extensions isn’t always easy. With so many brands out there, not to mention different materials, application types, and colors, it can be tough to decide which one is for you. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best hair extensions available, from clip-ins to halos and more, along with caring and application tips from stylist experts. Luxy Hair claimed our top spot for the wide range of options to choose from — from clip-in buns to rainbow extensions. 

Ahead, check out some of the best hair extensions for all of your glam needs.

Best Overall: Luxy Hair

What We Love: There’s a lot of products to choose from, including clip-in buns and a collection designed for postpartum hair loss.

What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers note that the product has a “too shiny” texture.

Luxy is a great option for anyone trying hair extensions for the first time. The brand offers several different collections, ranging from classic clip-ins to “peekaboo” rainbow extensions, with accessories like ponytails, clip-in buns, and volumizer bundles for fine hair. They also offer a collection designed specifically for people experiencing postpartum hair loss, allowing the wearer to fill in and add extra volume wherever they see fit. 

Every collection from Luxy is made with 100% Remy human hair, and each line contains a variety of length ranges and dozens of shades. Their website is super user-friendly, with a virtual color match option, along with plenty of tutorials to help you apply your extensions just right. 

Color/Length Options: 35+ shades per collection, 16” - 24” length range | Material: 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: Returns and exchanges are permitted within 60 days on all hair products that have not been opened, worn, or tampered with.

Best Value: Vario Clip-In Hair Extensions

What We Love: The price is a lot lower than many other brands.

What We Don’t Love: Some shoppers report that more than one set is needed to fill out one’s hair.

With prices starting at just $30, Vario is another solid choice for hair extension newbies. The brand offers three different collections: clip-ins, tape-ins, and halo, each with a variety of shade ranges and lengths. In addition to solid colors, you can also find extensions with highlights, ombré, and balayage detail, and every product is made from 100% human hair, which allows you to heat style.

Color/Length Options: 6-16 shades per collection; 14” - 22” length range. | Material: 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: Exchange or return requests must be made within the 30 days of receipt. The customer is responsible for return shipping and will be charged $10.00 for shipping in the U.S and a $30.00 fee in other countries to exchange or return the product. 

Best Ponytail: INH Aly 18" Mid-Length Ponytail Extension with Soft Beachy Waves

What We Love: There’s a wide range of colors and textures for ponytails — including a super-cute long braid.

What We Don’t Love: Some wearers report that the velcro gets stuck in their hair.

If you’re looking to embrace your inner Ariana Grande, the clip-in ponytail from Insert Name Here (INH Hair) will do the trick. With 25 different types to choose from, ranging from curly ponies to fun braids, you’re guaranteed to find a look to suit your style. In addition to the ponytails, INH Hair also offers regular clip-in extensions and a “half up, half down” look, along with a variety of wigs.

When shopping, be sure to take note of the material, as some of INH Hair’s extensions are composed of synthetic hair, while others are 100% human hair. If you plan on using heat to style your extensions, definitely opt for the latter.

Color/Length Options: 10+ shades per collection. Extensions length range: 16” - 22”, Ponytail length range: 16” - 35” | Material: Synthetic & 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: You can return or exchange any hair pieces within 14 days of delivery, so long as the hygiene seal on the package has not been removed and the hair pieces have not been handled or worn.

Best for Textured Hair: Indique Hair

What We Love: There’s a variety of extensions for different curl types.

What We Don’t Love: There aren’t a lot of options for dyed or highlighted hair.

With a wide range of textures and lengths, the extensions from Indique allow wearers to adjust their volume and style as they see fit. From smooth blowouts to tight coils, there are plenty of types to choose from! Indique offers both clip-ins and tape-ins, along with a line of lace front wigs designed to keep your hairstyles looking fresh all the time. In addition to selling hair pieces, there’s also a collection of hair care products such as scalp tonics and oils, guaranteed to whip your hair into the best shape before putting on your new extensions. 

Color/Length Options: 1-4 shade ranges per collection, 14” - 22” length | Material: 100% virgin remy hair | Return Policy: You can return or exchange products within 30 calendar days of original purchase date, as long as the merchandise is in its original condition, with all zip ties and tags intact.

Best Halo: Hidden Crown Hair Extensions Crown Clip-Ins

What We Love: The halo structure allows for a seamless look that won’t damage your hair.

What We Don’t Love: It can be harder to style an updo with halo extensions.

Halo extensions work differently from clip-ins or tape-ins, in that they have a wire that rests over your head and is “hidden” by your hair. With varieties for thick and layered ends, along with four lengths (not to mention plenty of shades to choose from), Hidden Crown is undoubtedly a superior halo option for a natural, flawless look. 

The brand also offers a variety of different clip collections, including a one-piece “v-clip” volumizer designed to be beginner-friendly and create an instant glam look. 

Color/Length Options: 32+ shades, 14” - 24” length range | Material: 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: Customers can return or exchange products within 30 days of receipt, so long as the hair pieces have not been worn, and the seal, hangtag, or zip ties have not been broken.

Best Clip-Ins: Irresistible Me

What We Love: There’s a ton of variety for brunettes.

What We Don’t Love: There’s not a lot of variety for highlighted hair or redheads.

Clip-ins are essentially the classic at-home extension. They can be applied in a snap (literally), adding length and volume to any hair type. The collection from Irresistible Me has a choice of five lengths, ranging from 14” to 28”, and shoppers can also choose between classic density or “extra volume,” where the weight of the hair is heavier. All packages include a tester weft, allowing wearers to double check the color without opening the whole kit. 

If clip-ins aren’t your thing, Irresistible Me also offers tape-ins and ponytails, plus an option to shop by your hair’s texture — so curly-haired folks aren’t left out.

Color/Length Options:18-22 shades per collection; 14” - 28” length | Material: 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: Exchanges and returns are allowed within 30 days from delivery, as long as the hair products are in their original box, clearly untouched, unworn and odor free, and with protection seals intact. Any hair that’s been worn or used cannot be returned or exchanged.

Best for Redheads: Bellami

What We Love: There’s plenty of options for ombré and balayage as well as solid colors.

What We Don’t Love: Some shoppers report wishing the product was “fuller” at the ends.

Bellami’s shade range is top-tier. The subtle differences between each hue allows for shoppers to truly find their perfect match — which can sometimes be tricky for redheads. The brand’s Silk Seam extensions are available in a variety of reddish colors, from strawberry blonde to mulberry wine, covering both natural redheads and those who’ve turned to the crimson side with dye. As for their other shades, they even have an entire line of platinum extensions — perfect for anyone embracing their inner Kardashian with an icy ‘do this season.

Color/Length Options: 20+ shades per collection; 16” - 26” length | Material: 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: You can exchange or return any unopened product within 30 days of receipt. The brand’s extensions are packaged with a special security seal which identifies if the product has been taken out of the cardboard backing to which they are attached.

Best for Braids: Darling Textured Hair Extensions

What We Love: The synthetic material makes these extensions extra soft and tangle-free.

What We Don’t Love: Some shoppers warn that the material feels slippery.

These braided extensions offer a variety of options for styling, including feed-in braids, goddess braids, side-swept cornrows, and more. The brand also offers a handful of other extensions, such as locs and crochet hair extensions, and they also sell bundles in the event you can’t make up your mind!

If you purchase a set of braids, you’ll want to make sure you follow the care guidelines, which include wrapping your hair at night with a satin bonnet or scarf to reduce frizz-causing friction, along with avoiding frequent washing, which could affect the product’s luster and shine.

Color/Length Options: 4+ shades per collection; 14” - 52” length (the longer options are for braids) | Material: 100% Kanekalon Hair (synthetic) | Return Policy: You can return or exchange these products for free in new and unused condition.

Best for Short Hair: BFB Hair

What We Love: The brand’s “fill in” collection helps add an extra oomph of volume.

What We Don’t Love: There aren’t a lot of shade options for redheads.

For folks with short hair, extensions are a great option to change up their look (as opposed to, y’know, waiting for your hair to grow). But sometimes all you want is just a bit of extra volume — not necessarily mermaid-esque length. BFB Hair offers a “fill in” package in two lengths and weights, allowing folks with shorter and fine hair to achieve the ethereal look of their dreams.

In addition to regular clip-ins, BFB Hair also sells “The Up,” which allows you to make gorgeous side braids, top knots, and low ponytails in seconds.

Color/Length Options: 30+ shades per collection; 14” - 24” length | Material: 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: If you wish to return your BFB Hair you have 90 days from the date of order, to return or exchange as long as the main compartment (Pouch 2) is still sealed.

Best for Highlights: Glam Seamless

What We Love:  Glam Seamless’s website allows you to shop by a variety of different criteria, from color to texture.

What We Don’t Love: Some of the collections are a bit pricey!

When your hair is already highlighted, finding the perfect extension kit can be tricky — but Glam Seamless offers a wide range of shades with highlights and balayage color. They also have a line of “rooted” products, each with a built-in shadow root for a textured and multi-dimensional effect. 

If you’re feeling like a splurge, Glam Seamless also sells a Keratin Fusion Collection, which allows you to pair colors for a customized blend. The brand also sells a variety of different applications, from clip-ins to tape-ins, along with a plethora of accessories to up your hair extension game.

Color/Length Options: 45+ shades per collection; 16” - 24” length | Material: 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: Returns and exchanges are accommodated within 30 days on all hair extensions that have not been opened, worn, or tampered with, and the seal has not been broken. The policy does not apply to final sale items.

Best Tape Ins: Donna Bella Hair

What We Love: Tape-ins provide a semi-permanent alternative to clip-ins.

What We Don’t Love: Some wearers report that the hair pieces get tangled.

If you want your extensions to last a bit longer than one night but aren’t down for a full at-the-salon option, tape-ins are the way to go. Donna Bella’s tape-in collection offers a wide range of shades, each with a special adhesive formula that attaches to the wearer’s real hair. The wefts come pre-taped for an easy application, and they are designed to last for 4-8 weeks, with the possibility of reusing them 1-3 times.

In addition to tape-ins, Donna Bella also offers clip-in and halo methods, along with a variety of tools and accessories designed to help you style and care for your extensions.

Color/Length Options: 60+ shades per collection; 12” - 22” length | Material: 100% Remy human hair | Return Policy: You can return or exchange any Donna Bella product within 30 days of purchase, as long as the hair is new and in a condition where it can be resold. The original packaging and product components must be intact and complete.

What to Keep In Mind

 Materials

When choosing your hair extensions, you’ll likely come across two types of materials: human hair or synthetic. Many brands will refer to their materials as “100% remy human hair,” which just means that the cuticles are all intact.

 Human hair will likely be more expensive, but it’s the type that’s most recommended by stylist experts. “I always look for virgin hair, which means it has not been stripped of its cuticle and dyed,” says Terrie Velazquez-Owen, a film and TV hair designer. Shelly Aguirre, stylist at Chicago’s Maxine Salon, agrees, saying that synthetic products can “look cheap and not match the actual texture of human hair.”

 If you plan on using heat to style your extensions — a straightening or curling iron for example — you’ll definitely want to opt for human hair instead of synthetic. The latter can melt or become damaged under heat application.

 Type of Extension

Another major decision will be the type of extension you want, as many brands offer a variety of methods. Clip-ins are an easy go-to for enhancing any look, though Aguirre notes that she doesn’t recommend people use them on a daily basis. “Everyday use would be too heavy for some clients who are looking to achieve longer or thicker hair,” she adds. “The weight of a weft could cause some hair loss over time.”

 If clip-ins aren’t your jam, halo extensions might be a great option. The weft rests on a thin wire that sits around the wearer’s head, allowing their real hair to fall over the wire (and thus hide it). Halo extensions offer an alternative approach to clip-ins, and can create a more seamless look.

 There are other methods, like tape-in extensions, which uses an adhesive for a more semi-permanent effect, or clip-in ponytails and top-knots for a fun, on-the-fly look.

Your Questions, Answered 

 How do you put in extensions at home?

The application method for hair extensions will vary depending upon what type you purchase, but prior to any usage, there’s a few basics to get down. Stylist Mirna Jose suggests taking your time to section out your hair carefully with a comb in order to place each extension exactly where you want it. “When sectioning, use hair spray before teasing the hair and then spray it again after,” she adds. “This will secure the extensions and prevent slipping.”

 Aguirre notes that patience is key, and that you should give yourself enough time to apply everything correctly. “Depending on how many pieces you will be installing, you should start just above the nape [of your neck],” she explains. “Pin all of your other hair out of the way. The smaller wefts of clip-ins will usually have two clips. Backcomb a small section and attach the clip to that piece. Work your way up the head. Make sure you leave enough of your own hair to cover the wefts.”

 How do you take care of hair extensions?

First and foremost, you’ll want to be sure to follow the instructions on the package, as all extensions will have slightly different directions for at-home care — but there are some general tips to consider. Jose suggests getting a brush designed specifically for wigs or extensions and air drying your pieces as much as possible. 

 You’ll want to avoid over-washing your extensions, but when you do wash them, Velazquez-Owen suggests high quality, professional treatments that focus on deep conditioning, like Olaplex. “Always use heat protection products when styling with hot tools,” she adds, noting that an easy hack for drying hair wefts is to put them on a pants hanger with clips. Voila — now you’ve found a way to air dry your extensions and store them all at once.