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Hair Extensions: Length Without the Wait

Hair extensions can add volume, length, a pop of color—just about anything you want to do to transform your ‘do. Explore your options with Groupon’s look at the vocab of extensions.

Weft: An inches-long strip that holds extension hair together, whether it’s composed of natural strands or synthetic fibers. The extensions can often be reused when your hair grows out or when you’re getting tired of using boring cloth curtains on your windows.

Weave: A method of attaching weft extensions; also known as a sew-in. Expect about a two-hour appointment for this method.

Tracks: Braids made from the client’s existing hair that run like cornrows along the scalp, forming anchor points for the sew-in extensions. Wefts of extension hair are sewn to each track with a needle and thread.

Bonding: A method of attaching wefts directly to the scalp with adhesive.

Fusion extensions: During this process, small bundles of 25–80 hairs each are attached to existing hair with heat-activated adhesive. The resulting bond lasts about six months and is nearly invisible, which some say creates a lighter feeling and a more natural look.

Microlinks: Also known as locs, tubes, or beads, these tiny metal or plastic clips are another option for attaching small bundles of hair near the root.

Virgin hair: Human hair that has not been dyed or processed.

Remy hair: The gold standard of human extension hair. All the strands in a remy-hair pack are lined up in the same direction from root to tip, so their cuticles (the minutely scaled outer coverings of hair shafts) won’t catch on each other and cause tangles.

Synthetic hair: A budget-friendly option, although it can look less natural and be easily damaged by heat, making it more difficult to style via blowtorch.