How to Use Clip-In Pigtails

Transform short hair into long hair with pigtail extensions.

Give the illusion of real, long hair by adding clip-in hair extensions to pigtails. Clip-in extensions consist of either real hair or synthetic hair. Real hair extensions will give a more natural look to the hair; however, they are more expensive than synthetic hair extensions. Synthetic hair extensions are less expensive but they will tangle more easily. When creating the look, such as pigtails, make sure that the extensions are the exact same color as your natural hair. This may require dying the extensions prior to use.

Things You'll Need

• Straightening gel
• Comb
• Paddle hairbrush
• Hairdryer
• Rat-tail comb
• Two clear ponytail holders
• Bobby pins
• Light-hold hairspray

Instructions

1. Wash your hair thoroughly before applying the extensions. Use a straightening gel to smooth out any frizzy hair or curls within your hair. Run a comb through your hair to ensure the gel is distributed evenly.

2. Dry your hair using a paddle hairbrush and hairdryer set to medium heat. High heat will cause your hair to frizz and potentially break. You want your real hair to flow into the extensions without any signs of natural to fake.

3. Separate your hair into two sections. Use a rat-tail comb to create a line from the center of your scalp to the back of your nape. Tie the left side of your hair up and work with the right side first. Use a brush to smooth your hair into a side pigtail right behind your right ear. Secure the hair with a clear ponytail holder.

4. Wrap the end of the extension, the side with the comb, around the ponytail holder. The comb on the extension is flexible, so it can accommodate any head shape. Insert the comb teeth around the exterior of the ponytail holder so the ponytail holder is not exposed. Comb through the extension to smooth the hair.

5. Work with the left side of the head and brush through the hair to remove any tangles. Secure the hair into a pigtail just behind your left ear. Just like the right side, wrap the comb of the extension around the exterior of the ponytail holder. Brush through the extension to remove any tangles.

6. Insert bobby pins into the extension hair and real hair to secure them together. The comb should hold well, but the bobby pins will give an additional back-up. Spray the hair with light-hold hairspray to secure the hair.

Tips & Warnings

• Wrap ribbons or decorative ponytail holders around the base of the ponytail for a hair accent.

• Apply gel to the extension to smooth any stray strands.

References

• Garland Drake: How to Attach - Clip in Back Pieces
• Hair Extensions: Everything You Need to Know About Clip-In Hair Extensions