I gained weight during chemotherapy, and had to get many new clothing items, including bras- I misjudged my 'new' (TEMPORARY) size, and got these extenders. They have saved a couple of pricey bras (for me- I can't get the deluxe of anything), and I'm thankful for that. I haven't noticed any 'scratchy' feeling, and as far as the hooks needing to be closed tighter, pinching them worked just fine. :)