For over a decade, I was known for my chin-length bob. It was my signature look, a style that I had grown to love and one that others recognized me by. But as a beauty editor I’m constantly exposed to the latest trends, and in 2026, the midi-cut was taking over. Inspired by celebrities like Olivia Rodrigo and Hailey Bieber I decided it was time for a change. Little did I know, this change would come in the form of Great Lengths hair extensions.
My journey began with a visit to Marc Mena a renowned stylist who specializes in hair extensions. I opted for keratin bonds also known as “k-tips,” which attach clumps of human hair to your natural strands using a keratin-based glue. The installation process took about two and a half hours, during which I chatted with Mena and watched as my hair transformed from a bob to a hip-length mane. After the installation, Mena cut and layered my hair to achieve the perfect midi-length.
Unexpected Benefits of Hair Extensions
One of the most surprising benefits of my new extensions was the increased time between washes. With my fine, oil-prone scalp, I was washing my hair every other day before. Now, I only need to wash it twice a week. This not only protects my extensions but also saves me time and effort.
Contrary to popular belief, styling my hair doesn’t take much longer than it did before. Thanks to the quality of the extensions, my styles last for four to five days. I wash my hair on Mondays and Fridays style it immediately after, and enjoy the results for days. This has made my hair routine more efficient and enjoyable.
The Joy of Styling
With my newfound length, I’ve rediscovered the joy of styling my hair. Before, I felt limited by my short bob. Now, I can experiment with different looks, from blowouts to braids and updos. Even on days when I can’t be bothered to style my hair, I can throw it up in a baseball cap or a bandana and still feel stylish.
Maintaining My Extensions
While my extensions have brought me a lot of joy, they do require some special care. I’ve had to be gentle with my hair, avoiding yanking or rough brushing. I’ve also had to be mindful of the products I use, avoiding sulfates and silicones that can damage my bonds or leave a residue.
I’ve also had to expand my hair care routine to include bond-buildershair masks and hair creams. These products help keep my extensions healthy and looking their best. Despite the extra effort, I’ve found that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
Getting My Roots Done
One of my concerns about getting extensions was whether I’d still be able to get my roots done. Thanks to the expertise of Rachel Bodt at Homecoming Salon in NYC I’ve been able to maintain my unnatural red hair color. Bodt has experience working with extensions and knows how to touch up my roots without damaging my bonds.
Three months into my journey with Great Lengths hair extensions, I can confidently say that I don’t plan on going back to my short bob anytime soon. I’ve never felt more excited and confident about my hair. While I initially thought I’d only wear the extensions for a few weeks, I’ve fallen in love with the versatility and style they offer.
If you’re considering hair extensions, I highly recommend Great Lengths. The quality of the hair, the natural look, and the versatility they offer have truly transformed my hair routine and my confidence. So, why not give it a try? You might just find your final form.
