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Clip in extensions are taking the natural hair community by storm. It offers versatility, endless styling options, extra length and volume in minutes. It’s no wonder they’re so popular! Compared to 10 years ago, there are so many options on the market for Type 4 Naturalistas. The textures range from kinky, coily and curly which means there’s a texture to match every hair type regardless of if you have Type 4A, 4B or 4C hair. If you’re looking for overnight volume or length then clip-in extensions will give you that short term look. So what are you waiting for! Give clip in extensions a try – you’ll be surprised about how much you’ll love it.
Keep reading for a breakdown of everything you need to know about clip-in extensions and how to rock them with your type 4 hair. If you’re interested in learning more about the best extensions for natural hair, click here.
How to pick clip-in extensions that match your natural hair texture?
Picking the right clip in extensions for natural hair all comes down to the hair texture and ensuring it matches your natural coils and curls. The ones that match Type 4 hair usually come in 3 textures.
1. Kinky
Kinky is suitable for 4C & 4B hair, the texture mimics the z-pattern of 4C hair seamlessly and it’s the kinkiest texture of all the types. You can either choose kinky if you want to style your hair in its natural curl pattern or a kinky straight if you prefer to wear your hair stretched. Regardless of which one you choose, if you purchase human hair then you’ll be able to straighten the extensions.
2. Coily
Coily is suitable for 4A & 4B naturals. 4C naturals can also wear this but may need to manipulate their natural hair with a twist out or braid out for a seamless blend. The coily texture tends to be tight ringlet curls mimicking an s-pattern. Although 4B hair has a z-curl pattern, it also works very well with the coily texture.
3. Curly
Curly is suitable for type 3 naturals due to the looser curl pattern. If you’re a 3A or 3B natural then this is the curl pattern for you. The curly texture has a springy ringlet pattern also mimicking the s-pattern but a lot looser in comparison to the coily texture. It has medium coarseness and not as tight as the kinky and coily textures.
TIP – If you prefer to wear your hair slightly looser and regularly use techniques like braid outs, twist outs and shingling method to manipulate your curl pattern then you can try a texture one up from yours. For example, if you’re a 4C natural, purchase a coily curl texture instead of kinky.
How to install clip in extensions?
Clip ins are easy to use which is why people love it so much. You can install them in less than 20 mins by yourself without having to go to a hairstylist. Here are 2 main techniques you can use to install your hair extensions.
Method 1 – Hair Left Out
Step 1 – Prep your clip-in extensions and your natural hair
Step 2 – Section your hair starting from the nape of your neck. It should be a straight line across from ear to ear and roughly an 1 – 2 inches from the nape.
Step 3 – Apply clips to parted section and secure them in place
Step 4 – Part another section of your hair (roughly 1 – 2 inches).Your hair should lay on top of the clips you placed previously covering the tracks.
Step 5 – Apply the next set of clips and secure them in place
Step 6 – Keep repeating until you get to the top of your hair
Step 7 – Blend your leave out and voila! Your good to go.
Method 2 – Cornrows or Twists
Step 1 – Section your hair as you would a sew in leaving out the perimeter and parting
Step 2 – Cornrow or flat twist the remaining sections
Step 3 – Tuck in the ends or booby pin them upwards. Just make sure they lay flat so it’s not bulky
Step 4 – Apply clips starting from nape of your neck until you reach the top
Step 5 – Blend your leave out and perimeter of your hair with the clip ins
Additional TIP’s
- Wash clip in extensions prior to installing and prep hair with a curling cream or mousse
- Prior to installation, get familiar with your clip-ins. The sizes vary so measure them against your hair so you know what order to clip them into your natural hair.
- Make sure your hair is fully detangled prior to installation to minimise matting
- If the clips feel uncomfortable, unclip them and re-clip them in another place
- Treat the clip-in extensions like your natural hair. Take care of them as you would your own hair so they last longer
- For additional blending, you can twist a small piece of your natural hair with the clip-ins for a seamless look.
How do you blend clip in extensions with real hair?
There are many techniques and methods to blend Type 4 natural hair with clip in extensions. It’s a bit of trial and error to figure out what option works best for your hair. Here are the most popular methods which will give you a seamless look.
1. Shingling Method :
This is by far my favourite method!. It works best with minimal leave out and makes it easy for your natural hair to blend with the clip in extensions. As the method utilises LOC or LCO, it also helps to ensure your coils and curls are moisturised whilst rocking your clip ins. Work with damp hair and apply your leave in conditioner followed by your curl cream throughout your hair. Work section by section, take a small piece of hair and stretch it whilst twirling it around your fingers. Repeat until you get through all your leave out and then let it air dry. For that extra definition, apply a hair gel after you’ve applied your hair cream.
2. Twist out :
You can either do a 2 strand or 3 strand twist to mimic the curl pattern of the hair extensions. When you unravel your twists, you’ll end up with a tight spiral or ringlet curl. This helps all the textures blend into one. We recommend a twist out for coily or curly extensions. TIP – make sure your twists aren’t too big to give you a tighter curl. You can also do a twist with the clip ins installed to help with blending.
3. Braid out :
Braid outs are similar to twists outs, the curl definition tends to be more wave-like enhancing your curl pattern and giving you that extra definition. This is great for all the clip in extension textures including kinky, coily or curly. You can also do a braid out with the clip in-extensions installed to ensure the texture matches your natural hair seamlessly.
4. No Leave Out Method :
This has become increasingly popular over the last couple of years and requires no leave out so less time blending. Your hair will be braided or twisted away making this a protective style. You’ll need to have 2 anchor braids for your parting as you’ll be crocheting the hair for it to blend. Don’t worry, if you haven’t crochet before – it’s pretty simple to do. You’ll just need to get used to the tool and you’ll be fine.
How long can you keep in clip in hair extensions?
You can usually keep in your clip in extensions in your hair for up to 7 days without having to reinstall them. It really depends on the method you choose to use to install them. For instance, if you hair is braided underneath then they’ll last slightly longer. If the clips are uncomfortable to sleep in, there is no harm taking them out before you go to bed and re-install them in the morning. The benefits of using clip-ins are they are quick and easy to apply so it shouldn’t take too long to re-apply in the mornings.
Some brands advice not to sleep in them but I’ve slept with my clip-ins many times without having any issues. Especially when I’m rocking bun styles or have cornrows underneath. If you do decide to sleep with them, make sure you wear a silk scarf and bonnet to protect your hair. When sleeping with clip-ins, use the pineapple method to preserve your curls which will make it easier to refresh in the morning.
FAQ’s re; Clip In Extensions for Natural Hair
1: Why won’t my hair extensions blend?
The main reason your clip in extensions aren’t blending with your natural hair is because the texture you purchased is completely different to your curl pattern. There’s no point purchasing a silky or body wave texture if you have afro textured hair. You’ll end up spend most of your time excessively straightening your hair which will eventually lead to heat damage. Always purchase a texture that closely matches your hair texture. There’s such a wide variety on the market that you should be able to find a texture that gives you a seamless blend.
Another reason could be that you’re leaving out too much of your natural hair. If this is the case, you can twist or braid your hair and apply the clip ins on top to minimise how much of your hair is left out. This is my preferred method as it acts as a protective style.
2: Can you wear your hair up with clip in extensions?
Yes – you can wear your hair up in a ponytail or an updo style. The way you apply the clips will be slightly different in this scenario. There a couple of methods you can follow;
Method 1 : Put your hair in a ponytail and braid whats loose into one big braid. Then clip the clip ins around the braid until you get to the top.Take a section of the clip ins and wrap it around the base of the ponytail and secure it with a bobby pin.
Method 2 : Section the middle of your hair and put it in a ponytail. Then apply your clips in an upwards motion around the ponytail. Keep sectioning your hair as you would normally and continue applying the clips until they’re all secured. You should have a perimeter of leave out left. Make sure it’s enough to cover the clips and tracks and then place your hair in a ponytail.
The only downside of these methods is it works best for medium to long hair. If you have short hair, it could end up being bulky. So try a drawstring ponytail if you want a seamless look. You’ll still achieve the desired look and it’ll be a lot less fuss trying to cover the tracks.
3: Do clip in extensions damage fine hair?
Yes – clip ins can add further damage to fine hair if you wear them too often. Damaged hair is more fragile and the clips can rub against your hair causing tension and friction. If you have damaged hair then it’s best to opt for a method where your hair is braided or flat twisted underneath the clips and have minimal leave out. This way your hair is protected from any tension and pulling on your natural hair.
4: How do I keep my clip in extensions from slipping?
The clips are designed to stay in place when attached, however, you can experience them slipping when you run your hands through your hair if they’re not secured properly. Here are some steps to follow to minimise them from slipping;
- Ensure your clips are secured before installing the next set
- Minimise the use oils on your hair and hands when applying
- Braid, twist or cornrow your natural hair before installing your clip-ins. This creates a base to help your clips stay in place
- Don’t be heavy handed when styling – you can always prep your clip in extensions before installation
5: Why do my clip in hair extensions keep matting?
The main two reasons your clip ins are matting. The first one is the quality of your hair extensions, cheaper isn’t always the best option when choosing your clip-ins. It’s always best to purchase from a brand who are known for their quality. Always do your research beforehand, read reviews and see what their customers have to say about the brand.
The second reason is you’re not detangling your clip-ins thoroughly and adopting a hair care routine. Type 4 Natural hair is prone to tangling due to the texture, so any hair extensions that mimic our natural hair is likely to have the same effect. Always detangle your clip-ins with care, the same way you would with your own natural hair. The products you choose to maintain and style them are also key.
Final Thoughts
Clip-in extensions are a personal favourite. I’ve been rocking them for years and absolutely love the versatility and the extra volume/length it adds to my different hairstyles. I love the fact you can’t tell if it’s your hair or not. It’s easy to apply and effortless to use for naturals who don’t have time to go to a hairstylist very often.
Our key tips will be to purchase quality hair extensions and create a natural hair care routine so they last a long time. Also, highly recommend braiding your hair underneath prior to installation so it doubles up as a protective style.
Do you wear clip-in extensions with your natural hair? What has your experience been? Are there any brands you’ll recommend for fellow Naturalista’s?
Leave a comment and share your experience. We’d love to hear your thoughts.
