How to Style Hair Extensions: Tips for Volume, Waves, and Updos

Hair extensions don’t just add length—they elevate your entire styling game. Whether you’re working with clip-ins, tape-ins, or hand-tied wefts, knowing how to style hair extensions correctly is the key to blending them seamlessly and showing off your look with confidence.

At Beaudee Salon, we specialize in hair extensions and want you to feel empowered to style them every day—or for a big event. Here’s how to create volume, movement, and stunning updos without damaging your natural hair or your extensions.

Know Your Extension Type First

Before you start styling, it’s important to know what kind of extensions you have. Each type requires a slightly different approach:

  • Clip-Ins: Removable, great for occasional styling. Always style off-head or blend carefully when installed.
  • Tape-Ins: Semi-permanent; avoid pulling at the root and use tension-free styles
  • Hand-Tied Wefts: Installed with beads; durable and versatile for everyday and special occasion looks.
  • At Beaudee Salon, we’ll help you understand your extension type and provide styling guidance specific to your application.

    Related Blog: [Best Hair Extensions in Rhode Island: Types, Cost & Maintenance]

    Tools You’ll Need

  • Heat protectant spray
  • Curling iron or wand (1”–1.5”)
  • Flat iron
  • Round or paddle brush
  • Lightweight hairspray or texture spray
  • Extension-safe serum or oil (only from mid-shaft to ends)
  • Everyday Volume & Blowout Styles

    Extensions can hold volume beautifully when styled the right way.

    Blowout Tips:

  • Start with slightly damp hair and apply a heat protectant
  • Use a round brush to lift at the roots and smooth through the ends
  • Focus on over-directing the hair (brushing away from where it naturally falls) to build volume
  • If needed, follow with a curling iron to create soft bend and fullness at the ends
  • Style Tip:

    For tape-ins or wefts, avoid aiming high heat directly at the bonds or seams. Concentrate on mid-length and ends for best results.

    Creating Seamless Curls and Waves

    Curls are a favorite with extensions because they blend natural and added hair beautifully.

    How to Curl:

  • Brush hair thoroughly and apply heat protectant
  • Divide hair into sections and work from the bottom up
  • Curl small sections, alternating direction every few pieces for a more natural look
  • Let curls cool before brushing or finger-combing
  • Finish with a light-hold hairspray or texture spray
  • Tips for Blending:

  • Curl both your natural hair and the extensions together to hide the seam
  • Use a flat iron wave technique for modern, beachy texture
  • If you wear clip-ins, curl them before putting them in for better control
  • Updos and Event Styles

    Yes—you can wear your extensions in an updo. Whether it’s a romantic bridal bun or a sleek ponytail, extensions can add volume and fullness that elevate any special occasion look.

    Updo Tips:

  • Use low, secure styles for tape-in or hand-tied extensions (high ponytails may expose bonds)
  • Backcomb the crown slightly for lift before smoothing into a bun or twist
  • Use hair-friendly elastics and avoid placing tension directly at the roots
  • Add face-framing pieces and wave them for a soft finish
  • Extension-Friendly Styles:

  • Loose braided crown
  • Soft chignon or low bun
  • Half-up waves
  • Side-swept ponytail with curled ends
  • Ask your Beaudee stylist about custom updos for weddings, photoshoots, or formal events.

    Related Blog: [Special Event & Bridal Beauty: How to Prep Hair and Skin for the Big Day]

    Don’t Forget Aftercare

    To keep your extensions looking fresh and healthy, be mindful after styling.

    Post-Styling Care:

  • Gently detangle using a loop brush or wide-tooth comb
  • Avoid applying oils or heavy serums near the roots or bonds
  • Sleep with hair in a loose braid or ponytail to prevent tangling
  • Use silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction
  • Real Results, Personalized to You

    Every head of hair is different—and your extension style should be too. At Beaudee Salon, we’ll show you:

  • How to properly section and curl for your haircut and density
  • The best products for your extension type
  • Tips for extending your style between washes
  • How to switch up your look from day to night
  • Want to see how others are styling their Beaudee extensions?
    View our client gallery

    Final Thoughts

    Knowing how to style hair extensions unlocks endless possibilities—from voluminous blowouts to polished updos. Whether you’re styling for every day or a major event, your extensions should enhance your look and feel like your own.

    Ready to try new styles or need help learning how to style yours?
    Book a styling session or consultation with Beaudee’s extension experts today.

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