How Long Is 18 Inch Hair Extensions? A Guide To Getting Gorgeous Length

Eighteen inch hair extensions are a popular choice for adding beautiful length and volume. But how long exactly are 18 inch extensions and are they right for you?

This complete guide covers everything you need to know about 18 inch extensions including:

• What length 18 inches falls on different hair types
• The pros and cons of 18 inch extensions
• Which extension methods work best
• Styling and maintenance tips
• How to choose the right 18 inch hair for you

Read on for tips from extension experts on rocking 18 inch strands flawlessly!

What Is The Length Of 18 Inch Hair Extensions?

Eighteen inches is a medium to long hair extension length, depending on your height and natural hair texture.

Here is how 18 inch extensions will generally fall on different hair types:

• On straight hair – 18 inch extensions hit around the mid to lower back.

• On wavy hair – 18 inch extensions fall between the bra strap and mid back on wavy locks.

• On curly hair – On curly or coily hair, 18 inch extensions land around the bra strap or between the shoulder blades.

As a guide, one inch is roughly 2.5 centimeters. So 18 inch extensions equate to around 45 centimeters in length.

To picture where 18 inch extensions will fall on your hair:

• Take a measuring tape and mark 18 inches from your crown.
• Or hold a ruler at the top of your head and run your fingers down until you reach 18 inches.

This will give you a good idea of the length and where the extensions will hit you.

Pros And Cons Of 18 Inch Hair Extensions

Before choosing 18 inch extensions, consider these main pros and cons:

Pros

• Medium to long length is versatile – you can create different styles from shoulder grazing to mermaid waves.

• More affordable than super long 24+ inch extensions.

• Works well with many extension methods including tape-ins, clips, and wefts.

• The weight is reasonable and won’t overload fine or thinning hair.

Cons

• May feel uncomfortably long for petite women or those with short natural hair.

• Those with very curly hair won’t get as much length as the strands shrink up.

• Longer hair needs more maintenance and careful styling to keep it tangle free.

What Is The Best Extension Method For 18 Inches?

Eighteen inch hair extensions are suitable for use with many different extension methods. Here are the main options:

• Tape-in extensions – Pre-taped wefts bond to small sections of natural hair. Tape ins allow reuse and easy removal. They create a flat seamless finish that blends well. Eighteen inches is a popular tape-in length.

• Clip-in extensions – Clip in wefts or strands with snap clips to add instant length. Easy to self-apply but not suitable for long term wear. Great for temporary styling with 18 inch hair.

• Keratin/Micro bead extensions – Strands pre-tipped with a keratin or micro bead bond to natural hair for a seamless look. Beaded extensions are versatile for 18 inches but require careful removal.

• Weft/Sew-in extensions – Wefts are sewn into cornrows on the head for a natural look and can be left in for months. Get 18 inch wefts for longer term wear.

• Hot fusion extensions – Strands fused to natural hair using heat bonding or ultrasonic waves. Achieve blendable length with 18 inch bonded hair.

To keep 18 inch extensions looking smooth and tangle free, aim for thinner weft designs or single drawn bulk hair rather than overly thick double drawn hair.

18 Inch Extension Length On Different Hair Textures

Hair extensions look different lengths on varying hair textures. Here is how 18 inch extensions tend to look on three main hair types:

18 Inch Extensions On Straight Hair

• Hits around the mid to lower back on straight hair.

• Falls below the bra line and approaches the waist.

• Allows you to create sleek, straight styles with swishy movement.

18 Inch Extensions On Wavy Hair

• Falls between the bra strap and mid back region with waves.

• Gives the length needed for mermaid or beachy waves.

• Adds relaxed volume with lots of styling versatility.

18 Inch Extensions On Curly Or Coily Hair

• Lands around the bra strap or between the shoulder blades on tight curls.

• Gives length while keeping hair’s volume and bounce.

• Defines and elongates natural ringlets and coils.

As curly hair shrinks up more, opt for 20 inch extensions if you want 18 inch length fully stretched out.

Tips For Styling 18 Inch Hair Extensions

The key to managing 18 inches of hair extensions is smart styling and maintenance. Follow these tips:

• Add layers and face framing pieces to remove bulk and prevent flatness.

• Curl under ends inwards to avoid dryness and split ends on the longer lengths.

• Braid, twist or tie up the 18 inch lengths before bedtime. Use silk pillowcases to reduce friction.

• Apply argan oil or leave in conditioner starting midstrand to the ends only. Don’t over moisturize at the roots.

• When washing and drying, be gentle. Remove tangles patiently with a wide tooth comb or wet brush.

• Keep your 18 inch extensions smooth and frizz-free with anti-humidity styling creams or serums.

• Get a trim every 8-12 weeks to keep ends healthy and remove any damage.

How To Choose The Best 18 Inch Hair Extensions

To ensure your 18 inch hair extensions look and feel fabulous, focus on quality and customization. Here’s what to look for:

• Hair thickness – Avoid overloading fine or thinning hair. Opt for 130gram sets or lighter.

• Hair origin – Choose reputable human hair sources like Indian, Brazilian, or European for best quality.

• Custom color – Have hair pre-colored to exactly match your tone if not buying virgin hair.

• Custom texture -Match your natural texture i.e. straight, wavy or curly.

• Weft size – Go for thinner 1-2 inch wefts or single drawn hair which blends better.

• Remy hair – Ensure the cuticles all run the same direction for minimal tangles.

• Comfort – Check attachment areas lie flat and don’t pull at the roots causing discomfort.

Choosing high quality customizable 18 inch extensions tailored to your hair will keep your new mermaid lengths lush, healthy and envy-worthy!

Frequently Asked Questions About 18 Inch Hair Extensions

Are 18 inch extensions too long for short hair?

Eighteen inches can look overly long on women with cropped hair. Opt for 14 or 16 inch extensions if your natural hair is above the shoulders. Or choose 18 inch clip-ins for temporary styling.

How much hair do I need in 18 inches?

For a full head, opt for 130 to 160 gram 18 inch sets. Go up to 220 grams for ultra thick hair. Or try 60-80 gram individual wefts added in for more subtle length.

Will 18 inch extensions damage my natural hair?

With proper installation and care, 18 inch extensions don’t damage hair. But overly heavy or tight extensions put unnecessary strain on hair over time. Have a reputable stylist assess your hair first.

Can I reuse 18 inch hair extensions?

Most high quality human hair 18 inch extensions can be reused 1-3 times depending on the method. Proper removal and reapplication is needed to maximize longevity.

How long do 18 inch extensions last?

With the right aftercare, 18 inch human hair extensions typically last 3-6 months with 1-2 maintenance/reposition sessions during that time.

What’s better 18, 20 or 22 inch extensions?

This depends on your height and goals. 18 inches gives bra strap length on most. 20 inches hits the mid back for bolder styling. 22 inches grazes the waist for glamorous mermaid hair.

Conclusion

Eighteen inch hair extensions are versatile, classic and give just the right amount of extra length to create beautiful hairstyles. By choosing the right texture, application method and caring for the 18 inch strands properly, you can wear this length seamlessly.

Work with experienced extension specialists to select hair customized to your look. With the right 18 inch extensions, you’ll have enviable, flowing locks in minutes!