The 10 Best Hair Extensions of 2022, According to Experts
For some, the best curling irons and wands will do the trick for luscious, long, full locks. For others, going the hair extension route is necessary.
Whether you’re going to a wedding (read: the best cocktail dresses and wedding guest dresses), back to the office (perhaps with work pants or baggy bottoms) or a prom (if so, order your dress ASAP), a few luscious locks could be the key to completing your look.
Luckily, we’ve put together a must-have guide to the best hair extensions to buy. We also spoke to celebrity hair popularizer Priscilla Valles, who gave us the 411 on all things clips, tape-ins and more.
“When it comes to extensions, you really pay for what you get,” Valles told the New York Post. “If an extension seems cheaper, it’s probably not the best quality hair and you’ll find yourself replacing your sets quite often – so it’s best to invest in a good quality set of extensions.”
Valles also has her own line of hair extensions with Glam Seamless, if you’re coveting the celebrity haircare offering.
Additionally, we wear hair extensions ourselves, and after years of use (from pageant experiences and formal occasions), we therefore know them inside and out. In short: they are surely worth the investment.
Ahead, find our complete list of this year’s best products on the market. Plus, check out our FAQs for style and care tips.
Click to access the best hair extensions:
How are hair extensions made?
“Extensions are done in many different ways, many companies use Indian hair because women give up their hair for religious beliefs,” Valles explains. “However, the hair comes from all over the world depending on your supplier and the quality of hair you want to use.”
Then the hair goes to the manufacturers to be colored and then glued, which is done in different ways.
How to apply clip-in hair extensions
To make sure your hair extensions stay in place all day, Valles shares a must-have guide:
“You apply clip-in extensions correctly by starting with clean sections using a rattail comb [like this set of three for $6],” she begins. “If the comb is a teasing comb, even better because you want to comb your section. Then put some hairspray on the back section and clip in the extensions; that’s the way to comb them. apply correctly to ensure they are secure.
To avoid seeing the clips — especially on finer hair — make sure you have enough coverage hair (the section on the crown of your head) that rests on the extensions, she adds.
How to Care for Hair Extensions
After wearing your extensions, close the clips, brush the extensions out, put some dry shampoo on the root and brush them out, according to Valles. “I like to keep mine in a silk bag or even a zipper bag,” she adds. “Wash them every six to 12 weeks depending on how much product you use while wearing them.”
Best Hair Extensions
1. Sarla 18″ Clipless Hair Extensions, $11
As the #1 Amazon bestseller, Sarla’s 18 inch clipless hair extensions are simple to apply and stay in place, giving your hair plenty of volume and definition. Available in every shade of hair color you can think of, these extensions are also customizable from 12″ to 22″.
2. Goo Goo 18″ Clip-in hair extensions, $101, original price: $115
If you prefer clip-in hair extensions to control the volume and length you want for an occasion, choose clip-in hair extensions from Goo Goo. At just over $100, they’re some of the best quality we’ve seen available direct from Amazon, available in multiple colors.
3. Irresistible Me Clip-In Hair Extensions, $80, original price: $140
If you want bouncy curls without the high price of sewn-in extensions or packs that cost over $300, Irresistible Me has a great set that makes your hair look full and gorgeous. They are also made from 100% human hair and can be dyed or applied with heat tools to style.
4. Insert Name Here 18″ Ponytail Hair Extension, $54
Finally – the hair extensions that Ariana Grande would approve of. This bouncy pony instantly elevates your hairstyle, which can be styled into a bun if you want a full top knot as well. Not to mention the clips are reasonably priced and the locks come fully loaded.
5. LullaBellz Clip-in Hair Extensions 22″, $48
For maximum length, LullzBellz has 22″ clip-in hair extensions that cost just under $50. With 11 shades to choose from, you can heat these five luscious lock clips up to 180 degrees for effortless styling.
6. Full Shine 100% Human Hair Clip-in Extensions, $111, Original Price: $215
As one of the thickest hair extensions on our list, Full Shine has a nice set (all strands are 100% human hair, BTW) for added volume and shine. Paired with your favorite curling iron or wand, it’s a must-have.
7. Donna Bella Clip-in Human Hair Extensions 14″, $140
Donna Bella has some of the most stylish clip-in hair extensions that look natural, so we think they’re 100% worth picking up at Sally Beauty. Paired with the retailer’s finest hair products, you’re golden.
8. True + Pure Texture Jasmine Coil 12″ Clip-In Extensions, $165
For textured hair, you can’t go wrong with Texture Jasmine Coil Clip-in Extensions from True+Pure. They are some of the most authentic we have come across, they are ideal for that zigzag curly texture that is hard to achieve with most hair extensions. Also, check out this volume!
9. Locks & Mane Clip-in Human Hair Extension 18″, $195
Conveniently offered at Ulta Beauty, Locks & Mane offers fabulous hair extensions for under $200 that make a tangible difference in the way your hair looks and feels. The range of shades is also generous, made from 100% human hair with no backcombing necessary.
10. Deethens Clip-in Hair Extensions 20″, $22
For just $22, we don’t really need to see you on Deethens 20-inch clip-in hair extensions. The ends also have that beautiful natural wave for everyday wear, and also come in multiple shades to match your natural color.
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