FAQ: Extensions

Extensions are magic, yes, BUUUUT only when they’re done right.
And thanks to the internet (and that one friend who “heard about that blah blah blah”), there’s a lot of misinformation floating around.  Let’s clear the air. Whether you’re rocking hand-tied, tape-ins, or keratin bonds, here’s the real tea.

Q: Will hand-tied extensions ruin my hair?

A: Nope. When installed and maintained properly, hand-tied extensions are one of the gentlest methods out there. Damage usually comes from bad installs, skipping maintenance, or ripping them out yourself at 2 a.m. (please don’t).

I’ve actually seen healthier hair growth from clients wearing my hand-tied method than without. And when I say healthy, I mean healthy. I’ve even had some “graduates”.  You know, the girls who came in with thin, damaged hair that needed time to grow but didn’t have the patience to chill the f*ck out. Yep. Extensions carried them right through to graduation: no more extensions needed.

Q: Are tape-ins cheaper because they’re lower quality?

A: Absolutely not. Tape-ins are different, not inferior. They’re great for clients who are new to extensions or anyone wanting instant volume without the long install time. The key is matching the right method to your lifestyle and hair health. And honestly, anything’s possible… except making bad tape-ins look good without proper care.

Q: Are keratin bonds (fusion) outdated?

A: Nope again. They’ve been around forever because they work. Keratin bonds are discreet, customizable, and long-lasting. They’re not for everyone, but for the right client, they’re perfection.

Bonus fact: I actually make my own keratin bonds, which means I can tailor them to your exact hair type and placement.

Q: Can I move up my extensions myself?

A: Girl. NO. Whether it’s hand-tied, tapes, or keratin doing your own “move-up” at home is the fast track to disaster. Tangling, matting, breakage, shedding… and probably a breakup with your stylist. It’s not worth it.

Extensions are an investment, respect yo self and treat them like one.

Q: Are extensions only for adding length?

A: Not at all. Extensions can add fullness, fix a botched haircut, or fill in thin areas. Partial rows, volume installs, or even a few tapes can transform your look without adding length. Literal game-changer.

Q: Are extensions high maintenance?

A: Okay, real talk, yes. But it’s not impossible. With the right products, brushing habits, a silk pillowcase, 4–6 week visits, proper blow-drying, and a chill bedroom lifestyle (to all you hoes out there), it’s easy peasy.

Fine, okay… it is a lot of maintenance. But it’s the kind of “easy high-maintenance” that pays off. Kind of like kids; they’re a ton of work now, but one day they’ll be the ones wiping your ass and feeding you applesauce so you don’t have to pay a nursing home to do it.  Same with your hair: put in the effort now, and it’ll pay off later. Your hair will look amazing, period. And honestly? It’s fun when you come see me all the time anyway.

The Real Tea on Maintenance

Since we’re here, let’s talk about what proper maintenance actually looks like not all methods are created equal.

Hand-Tied Extensions:
• Move-ups every 4–5 weeks ~ I loosen the beads and shift them up to keep everything tidy.
• Full reapplication every 8–10 weeks ~ I remove, refresh, and reinstall to keep your scalp and hair healthy.

Tape-In Extensions:
• Reapply every 6–8 weeks.
Any longer, and removal gets messy…like sticky, tangled, “why did I do this to myself?” messy. The adhesive breaks down over time, making it harder (and sometimes painful) to remove because of the increased risk of matting. Do yourself a favor and stay on schedule, your scalp (and your stylist) will thank you.

Keratin Tips (K-Tips):
• Maintain every 6 weeks.
I remove and reapply with fresh glue to keep them clean and secure. I don’t do full heads, I’m just not that girl.  BUT! I do love using them in small, strategic sections like around the hairline. Those areas are more delicate and harder to disguise with a tape or a row, so K-Tips give that seamless, natural blend while keeping things lightweight and comfortable.

Last Thought…

Extensions aren’t one-size-fits-all. Hand-tied, tape-ins, keratin they each have their place. The best method is the one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and hair health. So next time you hear some wild “facts” about extensions, remember: the internet lies , I don’t. I spit truths, ma. 💅

Got questions? Drop them in the comments, I’ll answer them all.