Hair extensions are the best way to dramatically transform your hair. When you choose a stylist that specializes in Natural Beaded Row or Invisible Bead Extensions, you’ll get the highest quality hair without messy adhesives or the unsightly plastic of traditional extensions.
With proper care and the right hair extensions tools, they’ll give your hair a long, voluminous, and naturally gorgeous finish that’ll make everyone wish they had your hair!
Curious about hand-tied hair or beaded sew-in extensions methods but don’t know where to start? We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about the best types of hair extensions, including:
What makes hand-tied hair applied using the NBR or IBE methods different from (and better than!) traditional extensions
How long you can expect to rock your hand-tied hair
Which tools are best for extension care
Let’s start with the basics.
What is Hand-Tied Hair?
Hand-tied hair is a type of extensions hair that more naturally blends with your own hair due to
its larger, lighter, and thinner weft composition. It’s 100% human hair, so the quality and ability to custom-color it is unmatched.
The two main application methods for hand-tied hair extensions are natural beaded row hair extensions (NBR) and invisible beaded extensions (IBE). Both options are fantastic for those who have always wanted thick and voluminous hair but were nervous about extensions damage or issues blending. With these two methods, your extensions will never peek through.
Natural Beaded Row Hair Extensions (NBR)
This adhesive-free method uses a track of thin string and tiny beads to tie in wefts of hair by hand. The result is extremely comfortable, natural-looking locks that won’t cause damage to your hair.
With NBR, you can go about your daily hair routine and activities as normal. You can style your hair, work out, and even go for a swim without worrying about your extensions.
Invisible Bead Extensions (IBE)
IBE uses a sequence of beads placed around the head that serve as connection points for the extensions. The quantity of beads and placement of the rows are completely customizable and determined by your stylist.
The IBE method is similar to the NBR method but without the track. The beads won’t rest directly on the scalp and require less tension to keep the hair in place. Overall, the IBE method also creates a natural look that’s designed to maximize comfort while seamlessly hiding connection points.
Why Choose NBR and IBE Over Other Hair Extensions Methods?
With both of these hair extensions methods, there’s:
No sticky tape mess
No chemicals
No damage
You just literally get the best of every world in terms of volume, length, dimension, comfort, and minimal maintenance.
Whether your stylist uses NBR or IBE to apply your hand-tied extensions, there’s minimal risk and all reward. Traditional extensions can cause damage, rely on messy adhesives, and are often visible when you style them in a ponytail or up-do. Even a gusty wind can reveal that once-kept secret. The NBR and IBE application methods eliminate all of these concerns, so you can just enjoy your new look!
How Long Do NBR and IBE Using Hand-Tied Hair Last?
If you’re wondering how long the NBR and IBE application methods last, the best answer is that it depends on how well you take care of them. Just like your natural hair, proper care and maintenance of the hair as well as the application site are absolutely essential. The hair extensions tools and accessories you use to care for your new hair will impact the appearance and longevity of your extensions.
We always recommend scheduling follow-up appointments with your stylist every 4–8 weeks after installation to move up, tighten, and secure the extensions so you can keep them for as long as possible. When installed by a professional and maintained with the right tools and products, hand-tied hair can last anywhere from 6–12 months.
Here are some of our favorite hair extension tools to have on hand, so you’re ready to go once your extensions are installed.
Must-Have Hair Extensions Tools
Proper care for hair extensions doesn’t have to be a headache. These are the 5 essential tools we recommend to keep your hair looking as beautiful as possible with maximum longevity.
1. Soft-Bristle Extensions Brush
In a rush? Don’t just brush! A regular hairbrush, especially when used close to the application
site, can actually loosen your extensions, causing them to slip. Using a soft-bristle brush prevents tangles and matting. This extension-specific brush is gentle enough that it won’t pull on your natural hair or cause damage to the extension’s placement. It’s important to note that you should always brush extensions when they’re dry. When hair is wet, it’s at its weakest. Please avoid using this brush with wet hair.
2. Silk Pillowcase
Traditional pillowcases can damage your hair, especially if you make the mistake of sleeping with wet hair. The fabric of silk pillowcases is much gentler on your precious locks, preventing damage, dryness, and tangling. While a silk pillowcase is especially important for hair extensions, it’s a good accessory to always have on hand in general.
3. Hydrating, Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner
Unlike the natural hair on your head, your extensions aren’t naturally oiled from the scalp. Without proper hydration, your extensions can dry out, leaving them dull and brittle.
Make sure to grab a hydrating and sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to ensure your extensions (and your natural hair!) stay happy and hydrated.
4. Silk Fabric Scrunchies
Got your new extensions and itching to rock a voluminous high pony? Don’t do it until you have the right scrunchie. Silk fabric scrunchies are the perfect way to tie your hair up without any risk of damage. Plus, they won’t leave any kinks in your hair like traditional elastics do!
5. Low-Heat Hot Tools
Want to turn heads? Turn down the heat! With hand-tied hair, you can follow the same style routine. However, too many people use heat settings that are far too high for even their natural hair. Make sure to lower the temperature settings on your tools (no higher than 350 degrees) to avoid damaging the natural hair, wefts, and overall look.
Get Long-Lasting Hair Extensions with The Right Tools and Right Stylist
With any kind of extensions, professional installation by an experienced stylist is key. But it doesn’t just stop there. Once you leave the salon, the responsibility is on you to keep them looking just as fabulous as the day you step out of the chair.
At Anastasia K Salon, we’ve been helping women like you get the hair of their dreams for over 20 years. At our luxury salon locations in Los Angeles and West Hollywood, your hand-tied hair will be applied by an accredited NBR and IBE expert stylist in under 4 hours. You’ll walk out as the most beautiful and confident version of yourself; we make sure of it.
What are you waiting for? Click here to apply for natural beaded row hair extensions or invisible bead extensions now!
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