When it comes to hair extensions, you’re probably thinking about getting those beautiful long locks you’ve always dreamed of. You will research the different installation methods, compare lengths, and spend a fair amount of time choosing the right colors. But, you may not have thought about how many packs of hair you’ll need to complete your look. If you are going for length, one or two packs will not cut it. In fact, there is no such thing as “just add a pack for length,” for four important reasons: volume, blending, color, and styling. 
VOLUME
FACT: you can’t have length without volume! One of the most common mistakes is not using enough packs of hair. Without the proper amount of hair, you will have added length but it will look thin and stringy at the ends. This will look incredibly noticeable. So, what is the magic number of packs you’ll need to get the right amount of length and volume?
First, you need to determine the volume of your natural hair. This can be done by simply counting the number of times you can wrap a scrunchie around your ponytail. If you can wrap it around more than four times, you have fine hair which requires fewer packs. If it wraps around three times, you are in that happy medium range. Now if it wraps around twice, girl, you’re gonna want to add as much hair as you can!
Second, you’re going to need to decide which installation method would work best for your hair. If you want to go with the most popular route, Tape-In will be your best friend. If you’re looking for durability and natural movement, Kera-Link will be the best option. Or, if you want to avoid heat and glue, any beaded method (I-Link or Flat Tip) will be your number one choice.
Once you’ve figured out the volume of your natural hair and the method you want to use, then refer to this list to determine how many packs you’ll need.
Tape-In Method:
- Fine Hair: 3-5 packs
- Medium Hair: 4-6 packs
- Thick Hair: 5-7 packs
Single-Stranded Methods (I-Link, Kera-Link, & Flat Tip):
- Fine Hair: 4-7 packs
- Medium Hair: 5-8 packs
- Thick Hair: 8-10 packs
BLENDING
Blending is key to creating a seamless look between your natural hair and the extensions. The proper blending process should follow four points:
- Determine the length of the finished look
- Frame the face
- Connect the layers
- Polish and detail for a seamless finish
Following this process will help your extensions look natural so you can show off your long locks with confidence. However, if there is not enough hair to work in the first place, it will be harder to achieve a proper blend and your extensions will become noticeable.
COLOR
Whether you are a blond, brunette, or redhead, your natural hair is not made up of one consistent color. It is important to select the correct combination that both complements and blends with your natural hair. You may even want to add some high or low lights to complete the desired look. For this reason, using just one or two packs of the same color will not give the hair the dimension it needs to look natural.
STYLING
Were you inspired to try a different style you saw on Instagram or Pinterest? Did it turn out just like the picture? No matter what style you’re trying-- from a stunning thick braid or flawless beach waves-- you need the right amount of hair to create flawless styles. Just think - the more hair you have, the more you get to play!
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE 1 PACK?
Whether it’s budget or situational reasons, we understand there may be times when you are restricted to using one or two packs. You can still have fun with extensions by adding a bit more volume to your natural hair, fill in a couple of balding/thinning spots, or add a pop of color.
Ready to add more hair to your install? Purchase your extensions here!
If you’re still not sure about the number of packs you need, contact us at info@donnabellahair.com.