Which Hair Extensions Are Best for Short Hair? A Complete Comparison

When it comes to transforming your short hair into something long, voluminous, and luxurious, hair extensions are the perfect solution. Whether you want to add length, volume, or a pop of colour, extensions can give you that instant hair makeover. But with so many types of hair extensions available, it can be difficult to know which one is best suited for your short hair.

At Hair Candy, your trusted hair extensions salon in both the Gold Coast and Brisbane, we offer a wide range of extensions, and we’re here to help you choose the perfect one for your hair type and style. In this blog post, we will break down the best hair extensions for short hair, highlighting their benefits, how they work, and how you can achieve a flawless look.

1. Clip-in Hair Extensions: The Go-To for Quick Transformation

Best for: People who want a temporary solution to adding length and volume to short hair.

If you're looking for a fast and easy way to add length or volume to your short hair without the commitment of permanent extensions, clip-in hair extensions are the way to go. Clip-ins are one of the most popular hair extensions for short hair, and for good reason—they are quick to apply, easy to use, and require no salon visits. Whether you're in Brisbane or Gold Coast, you can easily find clip-in extensions that match your hair colour and texture.

Clip-ins are applied by simply clipping small wefts of hair to your natural hair. The clips are discreet and lie flat against your scalp, blending seamlessly with your short locks. Clip-in hair extensions come in various lengths and thicknesses, making it easy to find the right match for your hair goals.

Pros:

• Temporary, meaning you can take them out at the end of the day.

• Easy to apply yourself, no need for a salon visit (although a stylist can help with proper placement if needed).

• Ideal for adding volume and length to shorter hair instantly.

Cons:

• They may not last as long as other types of extensions.

• They can be uncomfortable to sleep in, so they’re best for occasional wear.

2. Microbead Hair Extensions: A Semi-Permanent Option for Short Hair

Best for: People looking for a longer-lasting, semi-permanent solution that won’t damage their natural hair.

Microbead (or microlink) hair extensions are another great option for short hair. These extensions are applied using small beads that are clamped around sections of your natural hair to attach individual strands of hair. Unlike other types of extensions, microbeads don’t require any heat or glue, making them a gentle and low-maintenance choice.

Microbead extensions work well for short hair because they provide natural-looking results and can blend seamlessly with your natural hair texture. They are especially great for those with fine hair who want to add volume and length without using heavy extensions that might weigh down their strands.

Pros:

• Semi-permanent, lasting between 6 to 8 weeks before needing a touch-up.

• Low-maintenance and no heat or glue is required.

• Ideal for people with fine or short hair as they are lightweight and discreet.

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance appointments to move the beads up as your natural hair grows.

• Can be time-consuming and may need professional application.

3. Keratin Bonded Hair Extensions: The Most Durable for Short Hair

Best for: People looking for a long-term, natural-looking solution that works well with all hair types, including short hair.

Keratin-bonded extensions, also known as fusion hair extensions, are one of the most durable options for short hair. These extensions are applied using a keratin bond that is fused to your natural hair with heat. They create a seamless blend, and the bonds are small and discreet, making them an excellent option for short hair.

While keratin bonded extensions can take longer to apply, they last much longer than clip-ins or microbeads, typically around 3 to 6 months. The heat application method helps the bond melt and fuse perfectly with your natural hair, providing a smooth, natural-looking result. This makes them ideal for anyone who wants to maintain long, voluminous hair for an extended period without worrying about visible extensions.

Pros:

• Long-lasting, with proper maintenance, keratin bonds can last for months.

• Ideal for adding length, volume, and thickness to short hair.

• Creates a very natural and seamless look that blends well with your natural hair.

Cons:

• Requires professional application, which can be more expensive and time-consuming.

• Needs regular maintenance every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the bonds in place.

• The heat application can cause some discomfort during the process.

4. Tape-In Hair Extensions: Fast and Fuss-Free for Short Hair

Best for: People who want a long-term but low-maintenance extension solution that works with short hair.

Tape-in hair extensions are another popular choice for short hair. These extensions are applied using a strong adhesive tape, which securely bonds the extensions to your natural hair. Tape-in extensions lie flat against the scalp, making them a great option for those with short hair who want to add length and volume.

One of the main benefits of tape-in extensions is their quick application. They can be applied in as little as 30 minutes to an hour, making them perfect for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time in the salon. Additionally, tape-in extensions are lightweight and comfortable to wear, so they won’t weigh down short hair.

Pros:

• Quick application, ideal for those with busy schedules.

• Low-maintenance compared to other options.

• Comfortable and lightweight, making them great for short hair.

Cons:

• The adhesive can lose its hold over time, so maintenance appointments are required.

• Not suitable for extremely fine or fragile hair, as the adhesive may cause damage if not applied properly.

5. Weft Hair Extensions: Ideal for Thickening Short Hair

Best for: People with short but thick hair who want a fuller, voluminous look.

Weft hair extensions are strips of hair that are sewn into your natural hair using a weft technique. While wefts are commonly used for longer hair, they can also work well for short hair if you’re looking for a fuller, thicker appearance. Wefts are typically applied using a combination of braids or microbeads to secure the extensions in place.

While weft extensions aren’t the best option for someone who only wants to add length, they are perfect for adding volume and density to short hair. If your short hair is already thick, wefts can blend seamlessly and give you a full, bouncy look.

Pros:

• Adds significant volume and thickness to short hair.

• Can be worn for several months with proper care and maintenance.

• Available in various textures and colours for a customized look.

Cons:

• May not work well for very fine or thin hair.

• Requires regular maintenance to ensure the weft stays securely attached.

Which Hair Extension Is Best for You?

Choosing the best hair extensions for short hair depends on your desired result and how much time and effort you're willing to invest in your extensions. For a temporary and easy solution, clip-ins are perfect. For a longer-lasting option with low maintenance, microbeads or tape-in extensions are great choices. For a more permanent, natural look, keratin-bonded extensions are ideal, and wefts can add volume and fullness to short hair.

At Hair Candy in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast, we specialize in finding the best extension options for your unique hair type and style. Whether you're looking for a subtle change or a dramatic transformation, we’ve got you covered. Book your consultation today and discover the perfect hair extensions for your short hair!