It’s always a treat to get your hair extensions for the first time! Your dream length and volume are finally here, but what do you do next? Once your SWAY extensions are fitted, the fun is just beginning!
Styling hair with extensions is a whole new adventure, allowing you to try out all sorts of glamourous looks you never could before. In this first-time guide, we'll show you the best hairstyles to flaunt your new long and luscious extensions. Whether you’re going for easy everyday waves, bold statement braids, or chic ponytails, you’ll quickly learn how to make your new hair look and feel amazing!
Why Hairstyles Matter With Extensions
Hair extensions are an investment, so of course, you want to make that new length work for you. Styling your hair to show off the length, volume, and overall quality of your extensions will make them look and feel more natural. It’s not about hiding the bonds or tapes; it's about making your new hair look and feel like it’s yours.
If you’re new to hair extensions, you may be wondering which styles will work best for you. You may even be self-conscious about your extensions being seen or how they’ll perform with certain styling tools and techniques. That’s why we’ve researched time-tested hairstyles that are flattering, easy to do, and show off your extensions in all their glory.
Best Hair Extensions Styles
Loose & Flowing Waves
Soft, bouncy waves are a classic way to style your hair extensions. Loose waves will add effortless movement, dimension, and make your new length look thicker, healthier, and beautifully blended. If you want to achieve a “fresh from the salon” result that isn’t overdone, loose curls are the way to go!
To create this style, use our AIRE Multi-Styler with the Auto Wrap Attachment and focus on your mid-lengths and ends of your hair instead of at the root. Once you’ve curled your sections, gently run your fingers or a pintail comb through the curls to loosen and relax. The result is a tousled style that really showcases the length and volume of your extensions, without being too overdone.
Straight
Ever wanted to go pin-straight with your hair, but don’t naturally have the length you want or are prone to frizz? Extensions are the answer to your prayers!
This means you can achieve straight styles without compromise and without having to spend all day on your hair. Straight styles are forever chic, ultra-versatile, and the perfect option if you want to really make a statement.
Always make sure to apply a heat-protecting spray before straightening and work in small sections for the smoothest result. Finish with a light hair oil for extra silky gloss. Extensions can be heat-styled just like natural hair at 180 degrees, but it’s always worth nourishing your extensions with SWAY’s Hydrate System for healthy hair to help your straight style look picture-perfect for longer.
The High Ponytail
You know you want drama and confidence when you rock a high ponytail! It's bold, chic, and the perfect go-to hairstyle for evenings out or daytime looks. The long ponytail requires extensions for more length and volume.
Pull your head back a little while securing the ponytail to get a smoother base, then twist a small section of hair around the hair tie for a professional result. High ponytails walk the line between playful and elegant and are one of the most versatile ways to style your hair extensions.
Half-Up & Half-Down
The half-up, half-down style is perfect for when you want to show off the top and bottom halves of your hair. It’s perfect for keeping your hair off your face while still showing off the length and volume of your hair extensions. It’s also a classic and easy style that works for any occasion, from brunch to date night and everything in between.
Grab a section of hair from the top of your head and clip it up with a clip, scrunchie, or decorative accessory for some bling. Style the rest of your hair however you’d like, from straight to tousled waves or curls, to add some extra volume. It’s an easy style that’s great for beginners and always looks on trend.
Long & Thick Braids
Hair extensions instantly make braids look more dramatic and attention-grabbing. Extensions mean you can play with longer lengths, extra fullness, and more styles from single braids to double braids. Extensions make every braid style thicker, more textured, and effortlessly glamorous.
Loose braids in particular are super striking when paired with multi-tonal extensions. The process naturally adds definition between shades and tones.
You can add an easy boho finish by gently pulling apart the braid once it’s tied off. It’s a softer and more voluminous way to finish off your braids and it’s great for summer festivals, days out, or laid-back weekends.
Hollywood-Inspired Curls
Want to really wow the crowd? Hollywood curls are the way to go! The key with this style is to make your curls big and bouncy.
Big curls are glamorous and elegant. Hollywood curls are perfect for wedding parties and all sorts of festivities and can make any occasion special and full of glamour.
Using our AIRE Multi-Styler with the Auto Wrap Attachment, curl all sections away from your face. Once cooled, gently brush through each curl with a paddle brush to create a smooth and flowing curl. The curls are full of body and look stunning when mixed with your extensions!
Best Hair Extensions Styling Tips for First-Timers
Be Gentle With Heat
Extensions can handle styling, but like your natural hair, they need protection. Always use a heat protectant before straightening, curling, or blow-drying. When using hair styling tools, always use a low-heat setting (not going above 180 degrees).
Experiment With Accessories
Headbands, clips, and decorative pins are also great to use on simple hairstyles and will make your extensions feel extra glamorous.
Practice Makes Perfect
The more you practise styling your new hair, the easier it gets. Experiment with different styles and you'll quickly find the ones that make you feel your best.
Caring for Your Hair Extension Styles
Looking after your extensions after you've styled them is just as important as the style. Brush your extensions from the ends, working upwards, and use an extension-friendly brush to avoid pulling. Keep them hydrated with SWAY’s Hydrate System to make sure your extensions stay silky smooth, no matter how many times you style them.
Common Concerns for First-Timers
It’s only natural to be a bit apprehensive about styling your extensions for the first time. Will they curl and spring back like your natural hair? Will slick styles show any bonds or tapes?
The good news is that quality extensions (like SWAY) are made to naturally blend with your natural hair. After styling a few different looks, you’ll be confident to wear them any way you want!
Achieve the Best Hair Extensions Styles With SWAY
Putting on your extensions for the first time is an exciting moment! There are so many styling options for you to explore. From beautiful curls to high ponytails and messy braids, your SWAY extensions will allow you to try new styles and fall in love with your hair all over again!
The best advice we can give you is to be confident and pick styles that will make your extensions look their most natural. With a little bit of care and some practice, you will be styling like a pro in no time!
Best Hairstyles Extensions: FAQs
1. Can I curl or straighten my hair extensions?
Yes, SWAY extensions are 100% human hair, meaning you can style them with heat tools. We just recommend using a heat protectant in order to keep your extensions in their best condition.
2. My extensions are starting to look obvious in updos, is there anything I can do to help?
Placement is the most important factor! When your extensions are fitted professionally, they are placed in your hair in a way that allows you to style them just as you normally would your natural hair. In order to make extensions less obvious in updos, try wrapping a small section of hair around the ponytail or bun to conceal the area your extensions are attached.
3. Do extensions hold curl/wave/braids better than natural hair?
Typically, extensions do hold styles longer than natural hair, as extensions aren’t as affected by the natural oils from our scalp. If maintained with proper aftercare, your curls, waves, and braids can last even longer!
4. Are there certain styles I should avoid when wearing extensions?
Definitely not! But extremely tight styles that you wear frequently can damage or pull on both your natural hair and your extensions. We suggest if you want to wear very tight styles often, wear your hair in looser styles in between to minimise tugging and irritation.
5. How many times can I curl or straighten my extensions?
As many times as you like! With proper aftercare, your extensions can hold up to any style you want. Hydrating products and being mindful of too much heat damage can keep your hair in better condition for longer.
