The versatility of hair extensions means they are an ideal styling option for the picky. With just two or three hair strands, you can instantly transform the length (opens in new tab), volume (opens in new tab), and color (opens in new tab) of your hair into your ideal style. But how do you choose the best extension fitting method to suit your lifestyle? We spoke with Ikea Powell, licensed hairstylist and Mizani texture expert, to get a comprehensive overview of how popular extensions are worn (process, maintenance tips, length of wear, etc.) (opens in new tab). Whether you want to instantly add length and volume or completely revamp your look, read on for your perfect, natural hair enhancement match-up.

"These temporary extensions are for girls who want length and density but don't have time to be in the salon all day," says Powell. Simply attach a small piece of hair to a mini hair clip and snap it in place to quickly add length and volume.

Shelf life: "We recommend removing them before bed to prevent tangling and strong tension in the natural hair," advises Powell.

These extensions are provided in two adhesive-bonded strips and are installed by sandwiching a thin strip of your natural hair at the root between them. They are called "tape-ins" because you have to pull off a small piece of tape to access the adhesive end. These extensions are really flat, which allows for a more seamless look," Powell explains.

Shelf life: Tape-ins last six to eight weeks, but maintenance is a bit more complicated, so be sure to schedule an appointment with your stylist to have your extensions adjusted and cleansed. Says Powell, "I don't recommend shampooing at home, but if you must, use a sulfate-free shampoo and wash as far away from the adhesive tape on your extensions as possible so they don't slip."

This style option is best suited for those who want to try a new style without compromising the integrity of their natural hair. Most people consider this method a protective style.

"The most common basic is the braid down. You leave a piece of hair to cover the weft (of the extension). My braid pattern depends on the desired result. The smaller the braid, the flatter and more seamless the result will be," Powell explains. 'After the hair is braided down, the weft is braided from the nape of the neck to the crown of the head.'

Shelf life: 6 to 8 weeks with a natural finish if sewn in, 3 to 4 weeks with a closure. Powell adds, "Closures are solid lace flakes of varying sizes that mimic the appearance of scalp, to which hair bundles [are] attached for natural-looking parts or leave-outs."

"These extensions are for girls who want a natural, semi-universal look that blends in with their own hair," says Powell. MicroLink extensions are weft extensions that attach to natural hair using micro silicone beads. First, the natural hair is stretched or blow-dried. Next, small pieces of hair at a time are threaded through the beads and secured with metal pliers.

Shelf life: The effect lasts 6-8 weeks, but it is recommended to have maintenance at a salon every 3-4 weeks.

For an effortless and undetectable look, consider this semi-permanent extension option." I-tips are versatile and perfect for a lived-in look. It's a small piece of strand [against the weft of the microlink], and you take the same small strand of hair and attach it with tiny micro silicone beads, similar to the method used to attach microlinks," says Powell.

Shelf life: The most appealing aspect of this technique is its longevity. The most attractive thing about I-tips," says Powell, "is that with proper maintenance, they can last up to 14 to 16 weeks. To ensure longevity, Powell strongly recommends scheduling an appointment with a stylist every few weeks and moving the I-tip extensions closer to the roots as the natural hair grows out.

The natural appearance of wigs has advanced over the years. 'There are synthetic wigs as well as human hair wigs that have a longer lifespan. And then there are half wigs that offer a more natural look. There are also full lace wigs that protect the entire head of hair," Powell explains. Wigs do not require long-term use and are ideal for people experiencing hair loss to create a new style. Wigs can be handmade by a stylist or ready to wear. They can be attached with glue or adhesive tape, or fastened with a wig comb," Powell adds.

Shelf life: Wigs can be worn for six to eight weeks. Depending on the quality of the hair, wigs can last for years and can be reapplied many times.