Tape in, hand tied or K tip extensions: which method fits my hair?
The three methods we install most are tape in, hand tied wefts and K tips. The right one depends on your hair's density, your lifestyle and how often you want to be in the chair. We decide that together in a consultation, not from a menu.
Key takeaways
- Tape ins are flat, quick to install and a good match for fine to medium hair.
- Hand tied wefts add fullness and sit close to the head.
- K tips go in one small section at a time, so placement is precise.
What are the main types of hair extensions?
There are three methods we recommend most often: tape in, hand tied and K tip. Each one attaches to your own hair in a different way. That changes how it feels, how it wears and how often it needs a visit.
All three are part of our Custom Hair Extensions service. A consultation is required first, because extensions are never one size fits all. Prices vary by method, length and how much hair you need, so see current pricing on the Service Menu.
Are tape in extensions right for me?
Tape ins are a good fit if you want a flat, lightweight result and a shorter appointment. Thin wefts with a tape strip sandwich a small section of your own hair. They lie close to the scalp, so they tend to feel comfortable.
Who tape ins suit
- Fine to medium hair that needs added length or body
- Guests who like wearing their hair down
- Anyone who wants a straightforward install
What to expect
Tape ins need a maintenance visit, typically every 6 to 8 weeks, as your hair grows out and the tapes shift. Your stylist slides them up and reapplies them. We keep that routine on your calendar from day one.
What are hand tied extensions?
Hand tied extensions are wefts sewn by hand onto a thin braided track, so they lie flat against your head. They are known for blending well and for adding real fullness. Many guests like them for density as well as length.
Because the weft sits on a track instead of being glued, the look is smooth even when your hair is up. Your stylist can place them in a pattern that follows your head shape. They also need a maintenance visit every 6 to 8 weeks, when the wefts are moved up as your hair grows.
What are K tip extensions and who are they for?
K tips are single strands attached with a small bond near the root. They give the most control over where each piece goes. That makes them a smart choice for adding a bit of length at the crown, or filling in a spot around the face.
They take longer to install because each strand is placed by hand. In return you get a natural scatter that moves with your hair. They fit guests with enough natural length and density to hold the bonds comfortably.
How do I choose between tape in, hand tied and K tip?
You choose by answering four questions with your stylist. Here is how we walk through it in the chair.
- What do you want: length, fullness or both?
- How thick and long is your own hair right now?
- How do you wear it: down, up, in a ponytail at the gym?
- How often can you come back for maintenance?
Then we match the method and the color. Our team includes extension specialists, some of them Bellami certified, and the color is blended with professional products from Redken, Wella, Keune and Kevin Murphy. If you also color your hair, we plan both together so the shade matches.
One honest note. Extensions add length and fullness. They are not a treatment for hair loss, and not every guest is a candidate. We will tell you plainly in the consultation if another option fits you better.
What happens at the free consultation?
The consultation is a free 15 minute conversation about your hair and your goals. We look at your density, your length and your daily routine. Then we suggest a method, a timeline and a maintenance plan.
New guests can start with our new client page and meet the people who might care for your hair on the team page. For a deeper look at the upkeep side, read hair extensions in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which extension method is easiest to live with?
For many guests it is tape in, because the strips are flat and the install is quick. Hand tied wefts are just as comfortable and sit close to the head. The easiest method is the one that fits your hair and your routine, so we decide that during your consultation.
Can I color my own hair after getting extensions?
Yes, but plan it with your stylist. Color is best done before the extensions go in, or timed with a maintenance visit, so the shade of your hair and the extensions stay matched. Every color service at our salon also finishes with a blowout or haircut, so you leave styled.
Will extensions damage my own hair?
Extensions placed well and kept up on schedule are gentle on your hair. Problems usually come from skipping maintenance or brushing the wrong way. We will show you how to care for them, and we can say no if your hair is not ready.
How long does an extension appointment take?
It depends on the method, the amount of hair and the color work needed. Tape ins are usually quicker than K tips, which are placed one strand at a time. Your stylist will give you a time estimate at the consultation so you can plan your day.
Do I have to book a consultation first?
Yes, a consultation is required for Custom Hair Extensions. It is free and takes about 15 minutes. It lets us match your method, your color and your timing before you commit to anything.
Book Your Next Visit
Ready to find your method? Book online or call (513) 229-8818, and see current pricing on the Service Menu.
