Hair Extension Glossary: Every Term You Should Know Before Booking
A Comprehensive Hair Extension Dictionary
Navigating the world of hair extensions can be overwhelming with so many specialized terms and classifications. This dictionary is designed to help you understand the different types of hair extensions, their quality indicators, and essential terminology. From raw hair and Remy hair to I-tips, U-tips, and K-tips, this guide will equip you to make informed decisions whether you are looking for length, volume, or a complete transformation.
Hair Extensions Types
Stepping into the hair extension world can feel like learning a new language. Between I-Tips, U-Tips, nano beads, and hand-tied wefts, the vocabulary alone can be intimidating. Yet, these terms hold the key to getting results that not only look beautiful but also protect your hair’s health.
I-Tips (Microbead or Bead-Tip Extensions)
I-Tips are a cold fusion method, meaning no heat or glue is used in their installation. Each strand has a small “I” shaped tip made of durable material. Your stylist threads this tip into a tiny metal bead alongside a section of your natural hair and clamps it shut. Because there’s no adhesive, removal is simple, and te hair can be reused for multiple applications.
I-Tips are ideal for clients who want flexibility and minimal chemical exposure. They typically last 6–8 weeks before requiring a move-up. However, they do need gentle handling, as rough brushing or heavy products can cause slippage. The bead size and color are chosen to blend seamlessly with your natural roots.
U-Tips (Keratin Bond Extensions)
U-Tips, also known as nail tip extensions, use a keratin adhesive bond to attach hair extensions strand-by-strand. The “U” shape is designed to wrap around your natural hair, and a heated tool melts the keratin, forming a secure seal. This method offers exceptional longevity, lasting up to 3–4 months with proper care.
Because keratin is a protein naturally found in hair, the bonds blend well and move naturally. That said, heat control is essential during installation—too high, and the bonds can become brittle; too low, and they may not seal properly. Removal requires a keratin bond remover to dissolve the adhesive without damaging your own strands.
K-Tips vs. U-Tips: Understanding the Difference
K-Tips is a broader term referring to any keratin-tipped hair extension, while U-Tips are a specific flat, nail-shaped version of that tip. The installation is the same—heat is applied to melt the keratin bond—but K-Tips can also come in cylindrical shapes depending on the brand. Some companies use “K-Tip” simply as a marketing term, so always ask your stylist exactly what bond type and size they will use.
Nano Tips (Nano Ring Extensions)
Nano tips are an ultra-discreet bead method perfect for fine hair. The beads used are up to 90% smaller than standard microbeads, making them nearly invisible in the hairline. Like I-Tips, they’re installed without heat or glue, threading the extension tip and a small section of natural hair into a nano bead before clamping.
They require high precision and regular maintenance every 6–8 weeks. If cared for properly, nano tip hair can be reused for multiple installations. Their small size means less weight on your natural hair, reducing the risk of breakage for clients with delicate strands.
Tape-In Extensions
Tape-in extensions use medical-grade adhesive to attach wefts of hair in a “sandwich” method—one strip on top of a section of your hair, another below. They’re quick to install, comfortable to wear, and lay flat against the scalp. With the right care, tape-ins last 6–8 weeks and can be retaped and reused several times.
However, adhesive placement must be precise to avoid visible seams. Oils and alcohol-based products should be avoided near the adhesive to prevent loosening.
Hand-Tied Wefts
Hand-tied wefts are fine, lightweight rows of hair sewn together by hand. They’re typically installed by first placing small beads in a row along your scalp and then sewing the weft onto those beads. This method provides full, voluminous coverage with minimal bulk at the roots.
They can last 6–8 weeks before needing adjustments and are reusable for months. Correct installation is critical—too much tension can cause discomfort, while improper bead placement can lead to uneven weight distribution.
OTHER TERMS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Acetone Test
The acetone test is used to determine whether hair has been dyed. Applying acetone to a small section of hair can remove color, revealing whether the hair is raw or processed. This test is useful for evaluating hair quality before purchase.
Burn Test
A burn test distinguishes between human hair and synthetic hair. Real human hair burns to ash and crumbles easily, while synthetic fibers melt and harden. Performing this test helps ensure you are purchasing authentic hair extensions.
Buying from a Hair Vendor vs. a Hair Factory
Working with a reputable hair vendor is often more convenient than buying directly from a factory. Vendors offer variety, better customer service, and flexible quantities, whereas factories may provide lower prices but limited product ranges. Prioritizing reliability over the lowest cost helps prevent disputes and ensures quality.
Double-Drawn Hair
Double-drawn hair is thicker than single-drawn hair because a higher percentage of strands are the same length. Typically, 30–100% of the hair matches the advertised length, creating a fuller and more voluminous look.
Frizzy Hair
Frizz occurs when hair cannot retain moisture, often due to damage or high porosity. Hydrating shampoos, deep conditioning treatments, and masks help reduce frizz. Products like Olaplex and K18 can repair hair when used correctly but should not be overused.
Fullness or Ratio of a Bundle
Fullness refers to the percentage of hair in a bundle that reaches the advertised length. Single-drawn, double-drawn, and super double-drawn hair indicate general fullness, but the actual appearance depends on the mix of long, medium, and short strands.
Hair Grades
Hair grades are vendor-specific labels to describe products. There is no universal standard, so comparing grades across brands is unreliable. Evaluate hair by texture, cuticle alignment, and longevity rather than grade number.
Hair Porosity
Porosity measures hair’s ability to retain moisture. High porosity often results from damage, chemical processing, or environmental factors, making hair more prone to dryness and frizz.
Hair Quality Problems
Issues with hair quality can arise from either the seller or the buyer. Always inspect hair and perform tests, such as burn or acetone tests, before installation to prevent disputes.
Lifespan of Hair
Raw hair can last 2–3 years with optimal care, while processed floor hair typically lasts up to one year. Proper maintenance, including gentle washing and conditioning, significantly extends the life of extensions.
Long-Length Fees from Salons
Long hair is rarer than short hair, so salons may charge extra for lengths over 22 inches. Manufacturers often require a purchase of both short and long bundles to balance stock, which increases costs for buyers ordering only long-length hair.
Mink Hair Extensions
Mink hair is a marketing term rather than a true type of hair. It does not come from animals and is generally used to describe soft, shiny human hair extensions.
Naturally Curly Hair
“Natural curly” hair sold by vendors is often uniform in curl pattern, even if the donor’s hair was not naturally curly. True natural curls are more variable and less consistent than marketed bundles.
P/M/T Colors
P stands for Piano colors (alternating two shades), M for Mixed colors (evenly blended), and T for Top colors (darker roots fading to lighter ends). These classifications describe multi-tonal hair bundles.
Raw Hair
Raw hair is unprocessed hair collected directly from a donor, with cuticles intact and aligned. True raw hair is rare, and many vendors mislabel processed hair as raw. Quality varies based on split ends, UV exposure, or the donor’s natural hair condition.
Red and Copper Strands in Hair Bundles
Hair contains melanin, including pheomelanin (yellow to red) and eumelanin (brown to black). Chemical processing can leave strands with red or copper tones, which is normal for floor hair.
Remy Hair
Remy hair has all cuticles aligned in the same direction, preventing tangling and extending hair life. It may come directly from a donor or be carefully processed from multiple sources to maintain alignment.
Russian or Slavic Hair
Hair from Russia or Eastern Europe is high-end and expensive. Lower-priced hair from these regions is usually synthetic or lower-quality. True Russian hair is rare and offers a unique texture compared to Asian hair.
Real Tangling
Hair tangles immediately in water if cuticles are misaligned. Proper washing, hydrating treatments, and gentle handling reduce tangling and maintain hair smoothness.
Single-Donor Hair
Single-donor hair comes entirely from one individual. Most marketed single-donor bundles are actually from multiple donors, but when blended correctly, hair quality is unaffected.
Single-Drawn Hair
Single-drawn hair contains a mix of lengths, with only a small percentage being the longest strands. Suitable for shorter styles, it may appear thinner at longer lengths.
Smooth and Silky Hair
Smooth-feeling hair may be chemically treated or coated with silicone. While it looks attractive, it does not always indicate high quality. Health and cuticle alignment are better quality measures.
Super Double-Drawn Hair
Super double-drawn hair is marketed as fuller than double-drawn hair. It lacks a standard measurement and is often chemically processed floor hair. True super double-drawn raw hair is extremely rare.
Synthetic Hair Extensions
Synthetic hair is made from man-made fibers designed to mimic human hair. While it can look natural, it generally does not last as long and is not heat-styling friendly unless specified as heat-resistant.
Virgin Hair
Virgin hair has never been chemically treated or dyed. It comes directly from a donor and maintains natural texture. Marketing misuse sometimes labels processed hair as virgin hair.
Washing Test
The washing test observes how hair behaves in water. Healthy hair remains smooth and tangle-free, whereas damaged hair frizzes and mats easily.
What are Hair Extensions?
Hair extensions are real or synthetic strands added to natural hair to increase length, volume, or both. They can be attached with glue, heat, beads, tape, or clips.
What is 100% Human Hair?
100% human hair extensions are made entirely from natural hair without synthetic fibers. They can be styled, washed, and treated like your natural hair.
What are Synthetic Hair Extensions?
Synthetic hair is made from man-made fibers that mimic human hair. While visually realistic, it generally cannot handle heat styling unless labeled heat-resistant.
What’s the Difference Between Hand-Tied and Machine-Weft Hair?
Hand-tied wefts are sewn by hand, making them thinner and more flexible, whereas machine wefts are thicker and can hold more hair per row.
Wig Density
Wig density refers to the volume of hair used, influenced by both weight and length. Longer wigs require more hair for fullness, and customization ensures the desired thickness.
Wholesale Prices
Wholesale prices reflect savings from bulk purchases. Vendors may market small quantities as wholesale, but real discounts usually require larger orders.
Vendor Lists
Vendor lists are widely shared online but not all are reliable. Verified lists with testing protocols are far more useful than free lists, which often serve only as marketing tools.
Additional Hair Extension Tips and Considerations
When buying hair extensions, always consider hair porosity, frizz, lifespan, and origin. Proper care extends the life of extensions, while high-quality sourcing ensures a smoother, tangle-free experience. Pay attention to shipping policies, fees, and real tangling to avoid issues. Russian and Slavic hair is high-end, but Asian hair often provides a more cost-effective solution with excellent results.
For ongoing tips, haircare guides, and extension maintenance advice, check out our full Hair Extension Resource Center.
Conclusion
Navigating the hair extension market can be overwhelming, but understanding these terms empowers you to make informed decisions. From raw and virgin hair to double-drawn bundles, tip extensions, and vendor insights, knowing what