The Methods · Strand & bond
I-Tip extensions
Strands with a hardened stick tip are threaded through a small copper or aluminium bead with your hair, then clamped. No heat, glue or chemicals.
Also called: Micro-link · micro-bead · cold fusion
- Wear
- 3–4 months
- Application
- 2–4 hours
- Maintenance
- Tighten and move up every 6–8 weeks
- Reusable hair
- Yes, often for several months
- Investment
- ●●●○
Best for
Medium to thick hair, those avoiding heat and adhesives.
Think twice if
Very fine or very silky hair where beads can slip.
Benefits
- No heat, glue or solvents
- Strands reusable after move-ups
- Good movement and updo-friendly
- Easy adjustment of individual strands
Drawbacks
- Beads can be felt when sleeping at first
- Can slip on fine or slippery hair
- Bead clamped too tightly can stress hair
Aftercare
- ·Have beads checked and moved up every 6 to 8 weeks.
- ·Do not use oils near the beads, which can make them slip.
- ·Sleep with hair in a loose braid to reduce pressure on the beads.
I-Tip questions
Is any heat or glue used?
No. I-tips are held by a small bead clamped around the tip and your hair.
Will I feel the beads?
Most people notice them for the first few nights, then stop.
Is it good for fine hair?
Beads can slip on very fine or silky hair. Nano rings are often the better choice.
San Francisco
Considering i-tips?
A consultation at Patrick Evan Salon in Union Square confirms whether this method suits your hair, with colour matching and a quote.