Can You Get Extensions With Short Hair?

Having short hair can be stylish and freeing, but it’s natural to crave length and volume from time to time. If you’re wondering whether hair extensions are an option for short hairstyles, the answer is yes! With the right techniques, even very short cuts can be temporarily transformed with extensions.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting extensions with short hair.

What’s Considered “Short” Hair for Extensions?

Hair extensions can work magic on short styles, but how short can your hair be? Here are the general guidelines:

• Pixie cuts and bobs (2-5 inches): Permanent extension methods recommended. Clip-ins may be tricky.

• Chin-length bobs (5-7 inches): All extension types possible but permanent may look most seamless.

• Shoulder-length bobs (7-10 inches): Any extension type can work well. Easier blending than shorter lengths.

• Lobs (10-15 inches): All extension types easily blended. Clip-ins offer lots of versatility.

The shortest hair that extensions can be applied to is around 2-3 inches. However, the shorter the base hair, the more limited your options become. Very short hair works best with permanent bonded extensions installed by a skilled stylist.

Permanent vs. Temporary Extensions for Short Hair

There are two main categories of hair extensions:

Permanent extensions: Strands are bonded to your natural hair in some way to create a seamless look that lasts 6-8 weeks. Includes bonded, taped, sewn-in methods.

Temporary extensions: Clip or attach into hair temporarily and can be removed daily. Clip-ins, halo extensions etc.

Which is better for short hair? Here’s an overview:

Permanent Extensions

Best for: Very short hair, extreme length changes, seamless look.

Pros

• Look incredibly natural, even in pixie cuts
• Allows dramatic length changes safely
• Stays in 24/7 for weeks

Cons

• More expensive
• Some bonding damage over time
• Needs professional removal

Types: Tape-ins, bonded tips, sew-in wefts, micro links

Temporary Extensions

Best for: Chin-length or longer, moderate length boosts, occasional use.

Pros

• Affordable
• Easy to self-apply
• Remove any time for hair breaks

Cons

• Can look less natural in very short hair
• Limited to shorter, thinner extensions
• Need reapplication daily

Types: Clip-ins, clip-in wefts, halo extensions

In general, the shorter your base hair, the better permanent extensions work. But clip-ins bring versatility if your hair is chin-length or longer. Many people use a combination!

Tips for Extensions on Very Short Hair

Adding extensions to very short pixie cuts or bobs under 5 inches long takes more precision. Here are pro tips:

• Choose micro-links or tapes: These lay flatter to the head for discreet blending.

• Don’t skimp on length: Extending to waist-length won’t work. Aim for shoulder or medium length extensions.

• Add some face-framing pieces: Strategically placed shorter pieces around the face help integrate extensions.

• Get pro help: Very short application is tricky. See an experienced stylist you trust.

• Maintenance is key: Schedule fills every 4-6 weeks to prevent bonding damage as hair grows out.

What Are the Best Extensions for Short Hair?

With the right installation, any extension type can work on short hair if done properly. However, some types have advantages:

Clip-In Extensions

Best for: Chin-length or longer hair. Simple volume boosts. Occasional wear.

Pros

• Affordable, reusable option
• Super quick and easy to self-apply
• Many styles and lengths available

Cons

• Can look obvious in super short hair
• Not suitable for 24/7 wear

Tape-In Extensions

Best for: Short to medium length hair. Seamless look. Frequent wear.

Pros

• Flat application lies close to head
• Allows reuse by repositioning tapes
• Very customizable placement

Cons

• Tapes can sometimes be felt or visible
• Need professional removal

Micro Link/Bead Extensions

Best for: Very short hair. Flawless blend with minimal bulk.

Pros

• Extremely tiny links provide seamless look
• Useful for adding fringe pieces
• Can reuse links after removal

Cons

• Time consuming installation
• Beads may snag or catch hair

Bonded Keratin Tip Extensions

Best for: Short to medium hair. Seamless result. Long-lasting.

Pros

• Keratin bonds are gentle on hair
• Flat bonds lie flush to the head
• Weather resistant, can last 6+ weeks

Cons

• Most expensive option
• Bonding points can damage over time

How Much Hair Is Needed for Extensions?

The amount of hair needed depends on:

• Your base hair length: The shorter the hair, the fewer extensions needed to achieve your desired look.

• Desired length/fullness: Wanting extreme length or thickness requires more hair.

• Hair thickness: Fine hair needs fewer extensions than thick hair at the same length.

As a very general guideline:

• Pixie to bob length: 1-2 packs extensions (50-100 grams)

• Chin-length bob: 2-3 packs (100-150 grams)

• Shoulder-length: 3-4 packs (150-200 grams)

• Short to mid-length: 4-6 packs (200-300 grams)

When in doubt, your stylist can make an assessment and recommendation on how many extensions are needed for your hair.

How to Hide Clip-In Extensions in Short Hair

Clip-ins can work on short hair, but careful placement helps disguise them. Try these tips:

• Tease hair thoroughly where clips will be placed to blur roots.

• Make micro-sections. Clip into very small sections of hair to distribute weight.

• Add extensions underneath your top layers of hair wherever possible.

• Use the thinnest clips available to lay flatter against your head.

• Blend lengths. If your base is short, choose clip-ins a bit longer than your natural length to aid blending.

• Add face-framing pieces if your hair is one length. Softens the transition.

How Much Do Extensions Cost for Short Hair?

Cost varies based on extension type, hair quality, salon pricing, and your location. Here are typical price ranges:

• Clip-ins: $60-$300

• Tape-ins: $250-$1000+

• Micro-bead extensions: $300-$1500+

• Keratin tip extensions: $400-$2000+

To save costs with permanent extensions, opt for simpler bead or tape-in methods over more intricate keratin tips or sew-ins. Synthetic hair is also cheaper than human hair.

Maintenance appointments every 6-8 weeks add to the overall cost over time. Be sure to get an itemized estimate from your stylist.

Are Extensions Worth It for Short Hair?

For those bored with short styles, extensions can definitely be worth the investment:

More styling options: Try braids, updos, ponytails you couldn’t before. Endless possibilities open up.

Confidence boost: Extra length and volume can make you feel gorgeous.

Fun change: Transform your look for events and weekends without commitment.

Grow out gracefully: Blend extensions while awkward stages grow out. No more bad hair days.

Volume: Extensions seamlessly boost fine or thinning hair.

Just be strategic about your choice of extension type, stylist, upkeep, and maintenance. Done right, extensions can be a game-changer even for short hair!

Finding the Right Stylist

To ensure the best results, finding an experienced stylist is key:

• Look for specialists: Many salons focus specifically on extensions. Find ones near you.

• Check before/after photos: Look at their portfolio to see examples of short hair work.

• Read reviews: Online reviews can give insight into application quality and service.

• Consult on maintenance: Ask what’s required to keep extensions in ideal condition.

• Compare pricing: Get quotes from 2-3 salons. Beware very cheap options.

Taking the time to find a true extension pro for your initial install and maintenance makes all the