Updated: Mar 21, 2019
Microbead hair extensions, otherwise known as beaded, i-tip, or I-Link, are a popular alternative for extension lovers that want (or need) to avoid adhesive tapes, fusion methods, and/or hot glues. Further, they’re a great way to add length and fullness to hair with a low risk of damage (if installed correctly by a great stylist, eghmmm hit me up). I'll break down all there is to know about taking care of your new Bellami hair extensions right here.
Before I start my spiel, if you want your hair extensions to last, there are a couple of steps before washing. 9 out of 10 hair extension wearers treat their extensions like they're normal hair, which is to say, savage. You know who you are. I don’t have to tell you how expensive an investment your extensions are. Show them some sweet and tender love!
1. Brush them out babe, but carefully!
Before your hair even gets wet, loosely brush it and get the tangles out. Use one hand to hold a wet brush and use the other to hold your beads. Brush from mid-shaft to end and be gentle.
Pay special attention to the beads. Brush until your hair falls naturally without any tangles. Make sure each section of hair attached to the beads is loose and separated.
2. Get em' fresh and so clean, clean (Washing Tips)
First off, you're going to need a sulfate-free shampoo & conditioner (I recommend R+CO).
Like I stated above, brush your hair thoroughly before you wet and start to wash. Don't put the water pressure on full blast, be gentle with your new hair! Start with shampooing in downwards direction, as in, don't pile all of your hair on top of your head and mash it all about (that's not* what it's all about). You want to message the scalp in-between the beads and gently smooth through. If you leave residue, not only will you risk getting a flaky scalp, you will also decrease the length of time your bonds will hold. Next, add conditioner to your length only! In other-words, don't put conditioner on your scalp. Not only does your scalp not need it, but you will also be risking your beads to slide.
3. Get your style on (tips on how to use hair tools)
Use heat protection products first to protect your hair and the extensions for potential heat damage and wear and tear. Please, oh please, make sure your hair is 100% dry before applying any heat tools! Now that you've got all that hair (you're welcome), ensure you work through in sections. Use clips to neatly work on individual sections at a time.
4. Get your beauty sleep on (extension care while you sleep)
Ok, I can not stress this enough --- do not go to sleep with wet hair! Take 30 seconds and braid your dry* hair. I really* suggest investing in a silk pillow case. Why? Well, they prevent breakage, frizz, and tangling. Good Night!