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Everything First-Time Buyers Need to Know Before Installing Hair Extensions

Renee Williams| Jan 19, 2026 | 4 mins read


Installing hair extensions for the first time can feel overwhelming, from choosing the right type to understanding the installation process. This blog walks first-time buyers through what to expect before installing wigs, sew-ins, clip-ins, tape-ins, and braiding hair. It covers essential preparation tips, common mistakes to avoid, and simple care practices to help ensure a natural-looking, comfortable, and stress-free first extension experience.

Everything First-Time Buyers Need to Know Before Installing Hair Extensions
Being a first-time buyer can be overwhelming. First, you have to decide what kind of hair will suit you, and once you do, you need to go through the installation process. Whether you are buying tape-ins, clip-ins, sew-ins, wigs, or braiding hair, every type has a different installation method.
 
Here, we’re going to help you understand each type and share some basic things that will give you an idea of what to expect and what to know before getting your installation done. So let’s get started.

What To Know Before Installing A Wig

SEA BALI STRAIGHT LACE FRONT WIG PURE CURLY LACE FRONT WIG SEA FIJI CURL LACE FRONT WIG
Indique SEA Bali Straight Lace Front Wig With Freestyle Parting
Indique SEA Body Wave Lace Front Wig Virgin Remy Hair
Wigs are a great hit among first-time users because they give you bounce, volume, and the versatility to style your hair the way you want. However, prep and fit are the key ingredients to making your wig look effortless, seamless, and natural.
 
When getting a wig installed, make sure your natural hair is not bulky and is lying flat, well braided under the wig cap. The wig should fit your head properly—neither too loose nor too tight.
 
One of the most important things is density. Make sure the hairline looks natural because a very heavy hairline can look fake. Slight shedding or shaving to create soft, baby-hair-like strands can help. The lace should melt naturally into your skin tone, and you can use foundation to help blend it.
Proper customization, including trimming the lace and soft styling, makes the biggest difference.

What To Know Before Installing A Sew-In

Bounce Relaxed Straight Closure Wig Bounce Coil Curl Closure Wig Pure Wavy Lace Front Wig
Indique Natural Straight Human Hair Lace Front Wig
Indique Freestyle Parting Body Wave Lace Front Wig
Indique Freestyle Curl Lace Front Wig On Mannequin

Bounce Relaxed Straight Closure Wig

Bone Straight Braiding Hair

Bounce Coil Curl Closure Wig

Indian Deep Wave,Indian Human Virgin Hair,Natural Black Hair Extensions by Indique

Pure Wavy Lace Front Wig

Indique Curly Lace Closure Bundles
Sew-ins are generally meant for long-term wear. If you’re looking for semi-permanent hair extensions, make sure your braids are neatly done and close to the scalp to allow proper installation.
 
At the same time, ensure the braids are not too tight, as excess tension can cause irritation and discomfort. If long-term wear feels uncomfortable, consider lace frontals or closures instead.
 
To achieve a natural look, make sure the leave-out matches the same texture as the extensions. Keep your scalp clean and clear. Moisturization is key, so ensure your scalp is well cared for using lightweight serums and oils.

What To Know Before Installing Clip-Ins

Remix Relaxed Straight Clip-In Hair Extensions Pure Wavy Fishnet Studio Perfect 10: Straight
Indique Natural Straight Human Hair Lace Front Wig
Indique Freestyle Parting Body Wave Lace Front Wig
Indique Freestyle Curl Lace Front Wig On Mannequin

Remix Relaxed Straight Clip-In Hair Extensions

Bone Straight Braiding Hair

Pure Wavy Fishnet

Indian Deep Wave,Indian Human Virgin Hair,Natural Black Hair Extensions by Indique

Studio Perfect 10: Straight

Indique Curly Lace Closure Bundles
Clip-ins are a fantastic way to start, especially if you want flexibility in styling. Before wearing them out, it’s helpful to practice at home.
 
Carefully section your hair and place the clips away from the hairline to create a natural look. Since clip-ins are easy to remove, always unclip them before sleeping. Detangle them gently and store them properly to ensure longer use.

What To Know Before Installing Tape-Ins

Wavy Tape-In Hair Extensions Blow-Out Tape-In Hair Extensions Studio Perfect 10: Straight
Indique Natural Straight Human Hair Lace Front Wig
Indique Freestyle Parting Body Wave Lace Front Wig
Indique Freestyle Curl Lace Front Wig On Mannequin

Wavy Tape-In Hair Extensions

Bone Straight Braiding Hair

Blow-Out Tape-In Hair Extensions

Indian Deep Wave,Indian Human Virgin Hair,Natural Black Hair Extensions by Indique

SEA FIJI CURL CLOSURE 4X4

Tape-in hair extensions are lightweight and look very natural when blended seamlessly. Before installation, make sure your hair is washed thoroughly. Any oil or grease can cause the tape-ins to slip.
 
Clean hair allows the adhesive to stick better and keeps the installation secure for longer. After installation, handle tape-ins gently. Comb them lightly and avoid product buildup or excess grease near the scalp.

What To Know Before Installing Braiding Hair

Boho Curl Braiding Hair Gray Wavy Braiding Hair Water Wave Braiding Hair
Indique Natural Straight Human Hair Lace Front Wig
Indique Freestyle Parting Body Wave Lace Front Wig
Indique Freestyle Curl Lace Front Wig On Mannequin

Boho Curl Braiding Hair

Bone Straight Braiding Hair

Gray Wavy Braiding Hair

Indian Deep Wave,Indian Human Virgin Hair,Natural Black Hair Extensions by Indique

Water Wave Braiding Hair

Indique Curly Lace Closure Bundles
Braiding hair can last a long time, but proper preparation is essential. Before installation, make sure your scalp is well moisturized, as braids can stay in for weeks or even months.
 
Have a clear conversation during your consultation about braid tension and scalp care. After installation, continue moisturizing your scalp to prevent irritation and itchiness.

Some General Tips

Remix Relaxed Straight Clip-In Hair Extensions

Bone Straight Braiding Hair

Pure Wavy Fishnet

Indian Deep Wave,Indian Human Virgin Hair,Natural Black Hair Extensions by Indique

Studio Perfect 10: Straight

Indique Curly Lace Closure Bundles
No matter which type of extension you choose, always make sure that:
  • Your scalp is clean before installation
  • You don’t rush into heavy styling at the beginning
  • You follow basic care and maintenance for both your extensions and scalp
  • You take your time with the process
  • You keep asking your stylist questions and tips during installation

Wavy Tape-In Hair Extensions

Bone Straight Braiding Hair

Blow-Out Tape-In Hair Extensions

Indian Deep Wave,Indian Human Virgin Hair,Natural Black Hair Extensions by Indique

SEA FIJI CURL CLOSURE 4X4

Indique Blogs

Easy to Follow Installation Guide for Sew-in Hair Extensions

READ MORE

Conclusion

Your first hair extension experience should be memorable and exciting in all the right ways. Every journey starts somewhere, so why not start with proper preparation? If you follow the basics mentioned above, no matter which extension type you choose, the installation will feel natural, comfortable, and easy.

 

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