If it’s not, it’s just as superficial and fake as any other hair extension.

I don’t really see how hair extensions are any more superficial and fake than lots of other fashion choices. I mean, I get it, I think a lot of fashion is superficial and fake, but I don’t see why hair extensions have any particular stigma. Done well they look nice, done poorly they look like shit. None of my business. Some people have a hard time maintaining healthy hair if they grow it long, or maybe (like OP) they just don’t want to commit to having to keep it long all the time.