Do's and Don'ts of Hair Extensions

Do's

• Do choose high-quality extensions: Opt for 100% human hair extensions for a more natural look and feel.

• Do match your hair color: Select extensions that closely match your natural hair color or are easy to blend.

• Do maintain your extensions: Regularly wash and condition your extensions to keep them looking fresh.

• Do use heat protectant: When styling, always apply a heat protectant to prevent damage.

• Do consult a professional: Have your extensions applied and removed by a trained stylist for the best results.

Don'ts

• Don't sleep with wet extensions: Always ensure your extensions are dry before going to bed to prevent tangling and damage.

• Don't use harsh chemicals: Avoid products that contain sulfates and alcohol, as they can dry out your extensions.

• Don't pull or tug: Be gentle when brushing or styling to avoid breakage.

• Don't neglect your natural hair: Keep your natural hair healthy with regular trims and treatments.

• Don't leave extensions in too long: Follow the recommended time for wearing extensions to prevent damage to your natural hair.

Tape-In vs. Keratin: Which Hair Extension Method is Right For You?

As a stylist who has built a career on creating flawless, camera-ready hair—from the pages of Playboy magazine to the iconic looks for Paris Hilton on The Simple Life—I’ve worked with virtually every type of hair extension imaginable. I know that choosing the right method can feel overwhelming, and frankly, a wrong choice can lead to damage and a very unnatural look. The two methods I’m asked about most often are Tape-In and Keratin bonds, and for good reason. One is celebrated for its seamless blend, while the other is renowned for its durability, but which one is truly right for you? More importantly, for those of us with finer, more delicate hair, the choice isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety and hair health. Let’s break down these two popular techniques so you can move forward with confidence, not confusion.

As a stylist who has built a career on creating flawless, camera-ready hair—from the pages of Playboy magazine to the iconic looks for Paris Hilton on The Simple Life—I’ve worked with virtually every type of hair extension imaginable. I know that choosing the right method can feel overwhelming, and frankly, a wrong choice can lead to damage and a very unnatural look. The two methods I’m asked about most often are Tape-In and Keratin bonds, and for good reason. One is celebrated for its seamless blend, while the other is renowned for its durability, but which one is truly right for you? More importantly, for those of us with finer, more delicate hair, the choice isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety and hair health.

The #1 Factor: Which Method is Truly Safest for Fine or Thin Hair?

This is the question I'm asked most in my salon, and the answer is crucial. If you have fine or thin hair, the weight and application of the extension bonds are your top priority.

• Tape-In Extensions are a weft of hair with a strong, double-sided medical-grade tape on one side. While they lay very flat, the adhesive strip is relatively wide. For someone with dense hair, this isn't an issue. But for fine hair, that wider adhesive area can create unnecessary tension on a larger section of your natural hair, which can lead to stress and potential damage over time.

• Keratin Extensions (Specifically Nano Bonds) are, in my professional opinion, the superior choice for fine hair. Here’s why: the bonds are tiny—about the size of a ballpoint pen tip. This means each individual bond attaches to a minuscule section of your natural hair, distributing the weight across your entire head in a way that minimizes tension on any single strand. They are the lightest and most discreet bond on the market, making them not just the safest, but often the only method I confidently recommend for my clients with delicate hair

Consider Your Lifestyle & The Maintenance Reality

Your daily routine and how much upkeep you can handle should heavily influence your choice. This is where one method clearly outshines the other for busy women.

• Tape-In Extensions require more frequent maintenance. Because the adhesive can break down with oils and products, you'll need to visit your stylist to have them moved up and re-taped every 6-8 weeks. They also require you to be more mindful when applying haircare products, avoiding the roots where the tapes are located.

• Keratin Extensions (Nano Bonds) offer significantly more flexibility. A professional move-up is typically needed every 3-4 months. The tiny bonds are less susceptible to being loosened by oils, and you can care for your scalp and hair more normally. For a client who travels, works out frequently, or simply wants a lower-maintenance routine, the longevity of keratin bonds is a major advantage

Understand the Feel & Comfort on Your Scalp

How your extensions feel is just as important as how they look. You should forget they're there, not be constantly reminded by discomfort. I'll never forget a client who came to me after getting tape-ins elsewhere, complaining she could never scratch her head properly! It sounds funny, but that constant, minor irritation is real.

Tape-In Extensions lay very flat, which is a benefit. However, some of my clients with sensitive scalps report a slight "tugging" sensation or can feel the wider tape panel against their head, especially in the first few days after installation.

Keratin Extensions (Nano Bonds), once applied, are renowned for their comfort. The tiny, individual beads are rounded and smooth, allowing you to run your fingers through your hair and brush it effortlessly from root to tip without catching. This is the method I used for years on set with actresses who had to wear extensions for 14-hour days—if they weren't comfortable, I'd hear about it! The goal is for the scalp to feel incredibly natural and free.

This is a point other industry leaders emphasize. As noted hair extension specialist and educator, Sarah Smith, states: "The goal of modern extensions is an invisible, weightless experience for the client. When the attachment points are small and strategically placed, it eliminates the bulk that can cause discomfort and allows for seamless integration with the client's natural hair and movement."

This expert insight perfectly describes why I've built my entire extension service around the Nano Keratin method. Seeing the relief on a client's face when they realize extensions don't have to be painful is why I'm so passionate about getting this right.

The Final Factor is Your Commitment to Hair Care

Lastly, being honest about your haircare routine will determine your long-term satisfaction. Both methods require care, but one demands a bit more diligence.

• Tape-In Extensions require you to be meticulous about your hair-washing technique. You must avoid getting conditioner on the adhesive tapes, as it can break down the glue and lead to slipping. This can be a tricky habit to learn and is a common reason clients come to me for a change.

• Keratin Extensions (Nano Bonds) are far more forgiving. You can wash and condition your hair normally, from root to tip, without worrying about disrupting the bonds. For my busy clients, new moms, or anyone who doesn't want to overcomplicate their shower routine, this ease of maintenance is a game-changer.

Ultimately, the "best" method is the one that aligns with your hair type, lifestyle, and beauty goals. The most important step you can take is to have a thorough consultation with an expert who can assess your hair in person.

I've helped countless women navigate this exact decision in my West Hollywood salon. If you're ready to find your perfect match, I invite you to schedule a personal consultation with me. You can learn more about the process and view my extension portfolio right here on my website. https://vered.glossgenius.com/

In the end, the choice between Tape-In and Keratin extensions isn't about which one is universally "better," but which one is better for you. If you have fine hair and value a natural feel, low maintenance, and the utmost safety for your natural hair, then Nano Keratin bonds are, without a doubt, the solution I trust and recommend.

Ready to experience the difference? Schedule your personalized consultation with me at Vered Salon today, and let's create the long, voluminous hair you've been dreaming of.

Click Here to Book Your Appointment https://vered.glossgenius.com/

I'd love to hear from you! Have you tried either of these methods? Leave a comment below with your questions or experiences.