Invisible braids are a quick and easy method to achieve length, unfortunately, they do not last as long as traditional braiding techniques and will need to be redone more frequently.

Invisble braids photo courtesy of www.braidsbynina.com

Fusion or Fusing Hair Extensions

Fusion is a method in which a stylist attaches strands of hair to your own by sealing them with a glue wax. Unlike bonding which can at least be attempted at home, fusion requires a skilled technician. So before you break out a tube of cheap glue, think again. Many stylists use special glues and a tool similar to a glue gun to attach the hair. Try this at home and you may end up fusing more than your hair.

Fusion weaves are removed by adding fusion glue remover to the area of the attachment. A tool that sorta looks like a set of pliers is then used to loosen the glue. The removal is the most delicate part of the fusion technique so trying to do it on your own could cause irrevocable damage to your hair. So I repeat, go to a professional stylist.

The positives of the fusion method is that you can achieve a great deal of styling flexibility. Most strand-by-strand techniques give your hair a realistic feel in that you can actually run your fingers through your hair without running into the protrusions and lumps that are typically associated with weaves. Fusion also offers easier integration with your natural hair.

The downside to fusion is that it puts tension on your hair and the removal process can be traumatic to the shaft. The resins used to attach the hair can actually weaken it and damage follicles. This is why it's important to seek a professional stylist so that you can minimize the damage caused by this technique. Also, if you're the type who gets weave after weave, consider giving your hair a break from the glue now and then and use an alternative style.

You can expect to be in your beautician's chair for at least four to eight hours if you choose the fusion method. If you have an unbelievably large dome, it could take longer. The length of time needed for this technique also depends on whether or not you're going for a full or partial application. 

Individual Hair Extensions

Individuals involve the attachment of thin, fine braids onto small sections of your hair. Like fusion, this is a strand-by-strand technique in which a stylist attaches microbraids to small strands of your hair with a slip knot at the base. Th

Some advantages to individuals are that styling options are virtually unlimited not to mention you can fool people into thinking they're real cause you can vigorously brush it or curl it if you're using human hair. This style lasts two to three months but wearing very small braids places a lot of tension on the hair at the root.

These small strands can easily be pulled out and as painful as it sounds, they can take your hair right along with them. Because of the problems that can occur with individuals, stylists do not recommend that women with fine, thin hair use this technique because it could make your hair thin out even more.

Prepare to be in the salon a LONG time because individuals can take anywhere from 8-24 hours. Yes, I did say 24 hours.

Malaysian Hair Extensions

The Malaysian style involves the formation of a single thread at your scalp to form the base. Rows of wefts are then attached evenly throughout the scalp. One good thing about this technique is that it does not use any braids, glue or resin. In addition, pressure on the scalp is evenly distributed so there is full integration between your hair and the weave.

The Malaysian style produces a flat, "natural," smooth look. It also allows your hair and scalp to breathe and can be shampooed, conditioned and styled as you normally would. Because the weave is anchored so well, you don't have to be as delicate in styling as with other methods because it's harder to pull out the weave. The Malaysian works best on hair that is relaxed or pressed straight. For those into natural stylings, the Malaysian can be used to supplement afro weaves.

This style doesn't take as much time as some of the others so you don't have to plan your week around getting it done. The Malaysian takes about three hours to complete.

Sewn-In Hair Extensions

Sewing is a very common weave method. The stylist will begin by cornrowing your hair and will then sew extensions onto the cornrow. The cornrow serves as a solid base for the stylist to work with. The wefts of hair are then sewed onto the cornrow to add length.