Wondering which hair extension method is better for your clients, Halo or Clip ins? You’re not alone. As a professional stylist, it’s crucial to understand the differences between these two popular options so you can recommend the best solution for your clients’ needs. In this post, we’ll break it down.
Halo extensions are a one-piece, non-damaging solution that sits on your natural hair like a crown, while Clip in extensions are individual strands that clip onto sections of your hair. Halo extensions are great for quick volume and length without the hassle of clips, while Clip ins offer more versatility and a customizable look.
If you’re trying to figure out whether Halo or Clip in extensions are right for your salon clients, we’ve got you covered with a deep dive into the pros, cons, and usage of each type.
Halo vs Clip in Hair Extensions: What’s the Difference?
The halo vs Clip in hair extensions debate often boils down to comfort, wearability, and application methods. Both are effective ways to add volume and length, but they offer different experiences for both stylists and clients. Let’s break down the key differences between these two types of extensions.
Halo Hair Extensions
1、How Halo Hair Extensions Work
Halo hair extensions are an innovative, non-permanent solution that uses a thin wire placed over your natural hair. The wire is invisible, and the extension itself sits comfortably over the crown of your head, blending seamlessly with your natural hair. They’re typically a one-piece extension that can be easily adjusted to suit your client’s head size and desired look.
Halo Hair Extensions
2、Pros of Halo Extensions
No Damage: Because there are no clips, adhesives, or tapes involved, Halo extensions won’t cause damage to your client’s natural hair.
Quick and Easy to Apply: The halo method can be applied in under 5 minutes, making it ideal for clients looking for a quick transformation. No need to section or clip hair.
Comfortable: The wire is lightweight and sits comfortably without pulling or causing tension on the scalp.
Minimal Maintenance: Clients don’t need to worry about styling or adjustments throughout the day, making Halo extensions a low-maintenance option.
3、Cons of Halo Extensions
Limited Customization: Since it’s a one-piece extension, it’s less customizable than Clip ins. If your client has specific needs (like wanting fuller volume in certain areas), Halo extensions might not be as versatile.
Best for Medium to Long Hair: Clients with shorter hair may find it harder to blend the Halo extension seamlessly with their natural hair.
Clip in Hair Extensions
1、How Clip in Hair Extensions Work
Clip in extensions involve individual wefts of hair attached with small clips that your client secures to their natural hair. The clips are easy to apply and can be positioned anywhere on the head, depending on the desired effect.
CLIP IN HAIR
2、Pros of Clip in Extensions
Versatility: Clip ins come in various lengths, colors, and densities, giving clients the freedom to create a customized look.
Instant Volume and Length: These extensions can instantly add volume, length, and thickness to hair, whether for a special occasion or a new everyday style.
Customizable: Since each weft is individually clipped into the natural hair, you have full control over where the extensions are placed for a precise and layered effect.
Reusable: High-quality Clip in extensions can be reused multiple times, making them a cost-effective option for your clients.
3、Cons of Clip in Extensions
Application Time: While still relatively quick, Clip in extensions take longer to apply compared to Halo extensions. It requires sectioning and clipping the hair, which can take about 10–15 minutes.
Can Cause Discomfort: If not applied properly, Clip ins can cause discomfort or even damage if they’re too tight or placed incorrectly.
Not Ideal for Thin or Fine Hair: For clients with very fine or thin hair, Clip ins might not hold as securely, and they could risk slipping or showing.
Halo vs Clip in Extensions: Which is Better?
The question on many professionals’ minds is: Is Halo extensions better than Clip in extensions? The answer really depends on your client’s needs.
If your client is looking for a fast, comfortable solution with no damage, Halo extensions might be the better choice. They’re ideal for clients who want volume and length but don’t have time or patience for a more involved application.
If your client values customization, versatility, and longevity, Clip in extensions could be the better option. With Clip ins, you can create a more tailored look, and they’re great for clients who are willing to spend a bit more time on application.
Halo vs Clip in Extensions on Reddit and Other Forums
Many stylists and clients ask: halo vs Clip in extensions reddit – what’s the consensus? There’s no shortage of opinions online, but the general takeaway is that halo extensions are often preferred for clients looking for a quick, no-fuss method, while Clip in extensions tend to be more popular among professional stylists and clients who enjoy the process of creating a specific, layered look.
Lifespan Guide — How Long Halo & Clip-in Extensions Last
The lifespan of Halo and Clip-in extensions varies based on hair quality, maintenance habits, styling routine, and frequency of wear. Setting realistic expectations helps stylists and clients understand how to get the best long-term value.
Lifespan of Halo Extensions
Halo extensions typically last slightly less than Clip-ins due to their single-piece design, but high-quality hair dramatically increases longevity.
- Remy Hair: 4–8 months
- Full Cuticle / Virgin Hair (like Hibiscus Hair): 9–12+ months with proper care, sometimes longer with excellent care
Lifespan of Clip-in Extensions
Clip-ins generally last longer because the hair is divided into multiple wefts, reducing concentrated wear.
- Remy Hair: 6–12 months
- Full Cuticle Hair (like Hibiscus Hair): 12–18 months or even 2 years, depending on care
Why Clip-ins Last Longer
- Wear is distributed across multiple wefts
- Clients often don’t use Clip-ins daily
- Layered construction provides better durability and flexibility
Maintenance Guide — How to Care for Halo & Clip-in Extensions
Proper maintenance is the foundation of long-lasting, salon-quality results. Clear aftercare instructions not only keep the extensions looking healthy and silky but also reduce client complaints and increase repeat business. Below is the complete care routine for Halo and Clip-in extensions.
Daily Care Routine
Brushing
- Use a loop brush or soft-bristle brush.
- Always start from the ends and work upward.
- Avoid brushing aggressively when the extensions are wet, as wet hair is more fragile.
- Brush before and after each wear to prevent tangling.
Washing Guidelines
Halo and Clip-in extensions do not need frequent washing because they are non-permanent systems. Overwashing shortens their lifespan.
Recommended washing frequency:
- Halo Extensions: every 15–20 wears
- Clip-in Extensions: every 10–15 wears
Washing steps:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo to remove product buildup.
- Apply a moisturizing conditioner from mid-length to ends.
- Avoid twisting or rubbing the hair—use a gentle “press and release” motion.
Drying
- Air-drying is best.
- If using a blow dryer, switch to cool or low-heat settings.
- Gently squeeze (do not wring) the hair with a microfiber towel to remove excess water.
Heat Styling
- Always apply a heat protectant spray before styling.
- Keep heat between 160–180°C (320–356°F) to protect the cuticle layer.
- Safe for curling, straightening, and waves—but avoid daily high-heat tools.
Storage
- Ensure the extensions are completely dry before storing.
- Store in a silk or satin bag, or on an extension hanger.
- Keep away from sunlight, humidity, and heat sources to prevent fading and dryness.
Do’s & Don’ts
Do
- Use leave-in conditioners for extra softness.
- Deep condition periodically.
- Handle the wefts gently when brushing or styling.
Don’t
- Don’t store the extensions while damp.
- Don’t use alcohol-based styling sprays directly on the hair.
- Don’t clip Clip-ins too tightly or too close to the root.
Key Differences: Halo Hair Extensions vs Clip ins
| Feature | Halo Extensions | Clip-in Extensions |
|---|---|---|
| Application Method | One-piece design with invisible wire | Multiple wefts with silicone-coated clips |
| Application Time | 5 minutes | 10–15 minutes |
| Weight Distribution | Evenly across the crown | Distributed across sections—stylist controls placement |
| Customization Level | Low (fixed structure) | Very high (layering, density, placement, texture) |
| Comfort Level | Extremely light, zero-pull | Comfortable when installed properly; clips may add pressure |
| Blending Ability | Best with medium to long hair | Can be tailored for all lengths, including short hair |
| Ideal Hair Type | Fine–medium hair | All hair types, including thick and curly |
| Styling Flexibility | Works for down styles, half-up styles | Works for all hairstyles, including updos |
| Maintenance Requirement | Very low | Moderate—proper clipping and removal needed |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Good for occasional wear | Excellent for long-term reuse |
| Durability | Moderate | High with proper care |
| Damage Potential | No damage | Low–moderate depending on clip pressure |
Halo vs Clip-ins for Different Hair Types
Which Hair Type Is Better for Halo or Clip-ins? Choosing between Halo and Clip-in extensions becomes much easier when you evaluate the client’s natural hair type. Each method performs differently depending on density, texture, and length.
Fine / Thin Hair
- Halo extensions are typically the safer and more comfortable choice.
- They don’t rely on clips, so there’s no tugging or pressure on fragile roots.
- The wire sits gently on the crown and distributes weight evenly.
- Blending is smooth for clients with shoulder-length fine hair.
However:
Clip-ins can work if the hair is strong enough—but clips may show if the hair is extremely soft, sparse, or slippery.
Medium Density Hair
- Both Halo and Clip-ins are great options.
- Halo works well for fast transformations with a natural fall.
- Clip-ins offer more shaping freedom for stylists who want to customize volume distribution.
Thick Hair
- Clip-ins are usually the better choice.
- Thick-haired clients often need layered wefts to achieve balance, especially around the sides.
- Halo extensions may not provide enough volume or density to match heavy natural hair.
Short Hair
- Clip-ins offer more control and blending options.
- Stylists can strategically build layers to hide edges and create smooth transitions.
- Halo extensions may be harder to blend on chin-length or blunt cuts because the one-piece structure sits above strong lines.
Curly / Wavy Hair
- Clip-ins come in multiple curl patterns and textures, making them more versatile.
- Halo extensions are typically sold in straight or body-wave patterns, limiting texture matching options.
Halo vs Clip in Extensions: Which is Better?
The question on many professionals’ minds is: Is Halo extensions better than Clip in extensions? The answer really depends on your client’s needs.
If your client is looking for a fast, comfortable solution with no damage, Halo extensions might be the better choice. They’re ideal for clients who want volume and length but don’t have time or patience for a more involved application.
If your client values customization, versatility, and longevity, Clip in extensions could be the better option. With Clip ins, you can create a more tailored look, and they’re great for clients who are willing to spend a bit more time on application.
FAQ
1. Are Halo extensions better than Clip ins?
It depends on your client’s needs. Halo extensions are better for quick, comfortable volume, while Clip ins are ideal for customization and more control over the final look.
2. Which lasts longer, Halo or Clip in extensions?
Clip ins can be reused multiple times, making them a longer-term investment. Halo extensions are typically one-time use but can last through several wears with proper care.
3. Can you wear Clip in extensions every day?
Yes, Clip in extensions can be worn every day, but they require careful application to avoid damage or discomfort. They’re best used on days when you have time to apply them properly.
4. Are Halo extensions suitable for thin hair?
Yes, Halo extensions are often easier to wear for those with fine hair since they don’t require clips. However, some blending may be needed for seamless integration.
5. How do I blend halo extensions with my natural hair?
To blend Halo extensions, make sure you properly section your hair, especially at the roots, to allow the wire to sit comfortably. You may also need to tease the top layer of hair to cover the wire for a more natural look.
Conclusion
Choosing between Halo vs Clip in hair extensions ultimately depends on the needs and preferences of your clients. Whether you opt for a quick and easy solution with Halo extensions or a versatile, customizable option with Clip ins, both can elevate your client’s look and enhance their experience at your salon. It’s all about finding the right fit for their lifestyle and desired style.
