A Quick Guide: Installing Clip-in Hair Extensions for Volume
High-quality clip-ins can last over a year with proper care.
Achieving full, voluminous hair doesn’t have to involve expensive salon visits or permanent extensions. Clip-in hair extensions provide an easy, damage-free way to add extra volume in just minutes. If you want a quick boost for a night out or everyday wear, the right installation process ensures a seamless blend with your natural hair.
Our ultimate guide walks you through installing clip-in hair extensions for volume, blending them naturally, and maintaining them for long-lasting use.
What are clip-in hair extensions?
Clip-in hair extensions are wefts of hair attached to small, pressure-sensitive clips that secure to your own hair without glue, heat, or chemicals. High-quality clip-ins—like 100% Remy human hair extensions- in different lengths, densities, and textures—mimic the movement and feel of real hair, offering the most natural look.
Unlike tape-in extensions, clip-ins can be installed and removed within minutes with just a snap, giving you total control over your hairstyle without long-term commitment.
Choosing the right clip-in hair extensions for your hair type
Not all clip-in extensions work for every hair type. Choosing the right texture, weight, and length ensures seamless blending and a natural look.
You should consider the following factors before buying clip-in extensions:
|
Factor |
Why it matters |
|---|---|
|
Hair type |
Match the extensions to your natural hair texture for the best blend. |
|
Hair density |
Thin hair? Opt for seamless wefts that lay flat. Thick hair? Choose higher-density sets. |
|
Desired volume |
If your goal is extra volume, select extensions that weigh at least 160-200 grams. |
|
Hair color |
A perfect color match ensures natural blending—extensions can also be dyed to match. |
💡 Pro tip: If you have fine or thin hair, avoid heavy clip-ins, as they may feel uncomfortable or be difficult to conceal.
Step-by-step guide to installing clip-in extensions
Achieving instant volume with clip-in extensions requires the right installation process. Here’s how to do it correctly.
Prepare your hair
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Start with clean, dry hair for the best results.
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Wash your hair using a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain hair texture and prevent hair damage.
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Gently brush through your hair with a wide-tooth comb to remove tangles.
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If you plan to straighten or curl your hair, do so before installing the extensions for a perfect blend.
Section your hair for a seamless blend
Proper sectioning ensures that the clips stay hidden and the extensions blend naturally.
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Use a rat-tail comb to create your first horizontal section at the nape of your neck.
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Clip the top section of your own hair away.
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The middle clip of each weft should be attached first, securing it ½ inch from your roots to prevent discomfort.
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Work your way upward, using larger wefts in the back and smaller wefts near the sides.
💡 Pro tip: Tease the roots of each section slightly before attaching the clips to prevent slipping and create extra volume.
Install clip-in hair extensions from bottom to top
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Start with the smallest wefts at the bottom of your head.
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Open the clips, position them close to the scalp, and snap them shut.
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Blend seamlessly by spacing the wefts evenly.
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Keep the top sections lighter to avoid visible clips.
Positioning tip: Avoid placing the clips too high or near the temples—this helps maintain a natural look.
Blend and style for a natural look
Once your clip-in extensions are installed, blend them with your natural hair:
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Gently brush through your hair using a soft-bristle brush to merge textures.
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Use a flat iron to straighten or a curling wand to style your hair with the extensions.
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If necessary, trim the extensions slightly for a more customized look.
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Finish with a light hairspray to hold your style without weighing down the hair.
💡 Styling secret: Combining your natural hair and the extensions creates the most seamless blend. If you're new to this process, find professional help to walk you through your first couple of installments.
Interested in a clip-in hair extensions tutorial?
Jania Aaliyah has done a great job breaking down how to install clip extensions like a pro. Be sure to subscribe to her YouTube channel!
Maintaining clip-in hair extensions for long-lasting use
High-quality clip-ins can last over a year with proper care. Follow these maintenance tips:
|
Care step |
Why it’s important |
|---|---|
|
Wash every 15-20 wears |
Prevents product buildup and keeps hair fresh |
|
Use sulfate-free shampoo |
Preserves softness and hair texture |
|
Air dry instead of heat drying |
Extends the lifespan of extensions |
|
Store in a cool, dry place |
Prevents tangling and shedding |
|
Gently brush before and after use |
Reduces breakage and frizz |
📌 Nighttime care: If you wear clip-ins overnight, loosely braid your hair and wear a silk bonnet to reduce damage to your head, hair, and scalp.
Common mistakes to avoid when using clip-in extensions
Even the best clip-in hair extensions can look unnatural or cause hair damage if installed incorrectly. Here are the top mistakes and how to fix them:
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❌ Placing clips too high on the head
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✔️ Keep them ½ inch from the roots to prevent discomfort and visibility.
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❌ Skipping sectioning
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✔️ Section horizontally and attach from bottom to top for even weight distribution.
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❌ Not blending natural hair and extensions
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✔️ Use heat tools, gentle brushing, or curl both together to merge textures.
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❌ Forgetting to detangle extensions regularly
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✔️ Use a wide-tooth comb before and after wear to prevent tangling and breakage.
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❌ Sleeping in clip-ins every night
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✔️ Avoid wearing them for extended periods—this can cause hair damage over time.
One last time: Why clip-in extensions are a better choice for volume
There are many ways to add volume to natural hair, but clip-ins remain a top choice for convenience and damage-free styling.
Clip-in extensions vs. other hair extension methods
The following table breaks down each hair extension's method and its pros and cons:
|
Method |
Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|---|
|
Clip-in extensions |
Temporary, non-damaging, easy to install/remove |
Must remove daily |
|
Tape-in extensions |
Lasts 4-8 weeks, lightweight feel |
Requires salon application |
|
Sew-in weaves |
Long-lasting, adds significant volume |
Tension can cause breakage if too tight |
|
Fusion extensions |
Extremely natural look, lasts months |
Expensive, heat application can weaken hair |
💡 Why clip-ins win: If you want volume without commitment, clip-ins give instant results without affecting hair health.
The best way to install clip-ins for maximum volume
Clip-in hair extensions are the perfect solution if you’re looking for an easy, non-permanent way to add volume. With the right installation process, styling techniques, and proper maintenance, they blend naturally and provide long-lasting volume.
For premium-quality, 100% Remy human hair clip-in extensions, explore Bundle Factory’s collection. Whether you need length, density, or a seamless match to your hair type, we’ve got the perfect clip-ins for your look.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use hair extensions for volume?
Yes! Clip-in hair extensions are super easy to install and instantly add volume and body to thin hair without requiring permanent attachment.
How do you put in clip-in hair extensions for beginners?
Start with clean, sectioned hair. Attach clip-in extensions from bottom to top, and style them together with your natural hair for a seamless blend.
What are the disadvantages of clip-in hair extensions?
While clip-ins are a convenient solution, improper installation can make them visible or feel uncomfortable. Correct positioning and proper maintenance ensure a flawless look.