Whether you are a hairstylist, wig distributor, retailer, or salon, you will have people coming in looking for hair extensions.
When they do, you need to know what to recommend and to have a proper hair extension length chart available. Make the process easier for your clients to choose hair extensions that will complement their natural hair length.
In this blog post, we’re offering a hair extension length comparison to help you find the correct length for your customers, or for your own hair. If you just want to buy human hair extensions for yourself, you’ll still find the information in this blog post very helpful.
- Related: Best Hair Extensions for Thin/Fine hair, why and how?
- Related: Different Types of Hair Extensions
Hair Extension Length Chart
Medium Length Hair Extensions
Medium hair extensions range from 14 to 18 inches, but people with curly hair may need up to 24 inches of length.
Shoulder Length
Your customer’s hair actually doesn’t have to be the exact same length as their shoulders to qualify for shoulder-length hair extensions.
For this short hair length, you’ll just want to make sure the extensions are distributed evenly so you, or your customer, don’t have too much weight or volume on one area of the head.
Bra Strap Length
A person with bra strap length hair is at the far end of the medium hair extensions length chart. You’ll want strands that are 16-20 inches in length to make sure you get the right hair extensions.
Sometimes, people with shorter hair like to buy this length of hair extensions and clip them behind their ears or at the base of their neck to make a unique hairstyle. Remember that curly and wavy clip-ins are pulled straight before they’re measured. You’ll need to do the same if you want the strands to perfectly match your current haircut.
Long Hair Extensions
Longer hair can become thick and unruly if you have too many extensions. The trick is to get the right length and add just enough strands to provide extra volume without disturbing the hair’s natural look.
Most strands won’t be longer than 26 inches, so the best length will be somewhere between 24 and 26 inches. You can always trim the strands to the perfect length for your natural hair.
Extra Long
Long hair is anything past the bra strap length. However, if your hair is past the middle of your back, you may have trouble finding the right length.
In these instances, it’s better to make the hair extension length “complementary”, since it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get your natural length. Adding the extensions all around the scalp will make your hair look thick and healthy.
This is also a good method for people who want to blend in a few strands of extra color without dying their own hair.
Which Extension Hair Length is Right for You?
Let’s break down the positives and negatives of the most popular lengths so you can determine which ones are best for you or your customers.
16 vs 18-inch hair extensions:
18-in tall strands are the most popular and are a good fit for people of all hair types. The downside is that this extra length adds more weight.
16-in strands will be more manageable and are also easy to wear with short hair. The downside is that you’ll probably have to trim it. Also, you’ll probably not want to wear these if your hair is longer than shoulder-length.
20-inch hair extensions:
Twenty inches seems to be the middle ground when it comes to favorite lengths. Straight, curly, and wavy hair extensions all perform well at 20 inches.
The downside is that longer hair pieces are difficult to manage and can put extra strain on your hair if you have thin hair or if you are using hair tape or a similar bonding method.
18 vs 22-inch hair extensions:
If you have long hair, 18-inch strands will be a complimentary length and can give your hair more volume and character. However, the strands could stick out like a sore thumb if you don’t style them correctly.
The 22-inch hair extensions will be able to add length to your hair or at least be the same as your own hair length. Unfortunately, they will also be easier to damage because they’re so long.
Visit our hair extensions page today to order your perfect length.
Questions About Natural Hair Extension Lengths:
What length of hair extensions do I need?
Your extension length should closely match your natural hair length. This will ensure everyone thinks it’s your natural hair. If you’re buying curly extensions, pull your hair straight and use a measuring tape. This will ensure you measure properly to get the desired length.
What is the average length of hair extensions?
The average length for hair extensions is 14-24 inches. These lengths will match your natural hair length if your hair falls at or a little past your shoulders.
What is the difference between hair extensions and hair weaves?
Hair extensions can be applied using tape, glue, heating methods, clips, or weaves. Weaves are extensions that are sewn into your hair, making them more difficult to remove.
What are the different types of hair extensions?
There are five main types of hair extensions:
Each type has different extension lengths and colors available. Full hair pieces like toupees can technically be considered a hair extension, but they usually fit in their own category. So, we didn’t include them on this list.
Find Your Perfect Hair Extension Lengths
Start your hair extension journey by purchasing 18-in, 20-in, or 22-in extensions. This will give you the best variety for the least amount of money. You can always order longer hair extensions later.
Shop our store today for the best hair extensions available.
