K-tip extensions, also known as keratin-tip hair extensions, are famous for blending seamlessly with your natural hair and providing long-lasting results. They have the outstanding benefit of adding volume, length, and flexibility to natural hair.
However, applying keratin tip hair extensions can be a difficult task if you’re new to the process. Normally, keratin hair extensions installation should be done at a hair salon by skilled hair professionals, and I highly recommend it. If you want to DIY, it is important to understand that this task could contain hidden risk like improper technique, lack of specialized tools, etc.
To complete this task at home, and limit the damage, there are many blogs that share installation tips with various steps. For me, just understanding the 3 steps I have summarized below is enough. Check out the k-tip extensions install step-by-step guide,and you can go through the process correctly!
Before Beginning: Simple Prepare
Gather Your Tools
Before you begin the k-tip extensions install process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools. You’ll need:
- Keratin tip extensions: Choose high-quality extensions that match your hair color and texture. These are usually sold in packs of 10-20 individual strands. So, you’ll need 100-180 strands for a full head of extensions application.
- Heat fusion connector tool: This tool will be used to attach the extensions to your hair using keratin bonds. (for hot fusion method)
- Tiny beads (for cold fusion method)
- Specialized pliers (for the cold fusion method)
- Clips: Section your hair into manageable parts during the application.
- Comb: Highly recommend using a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair and divide it into sections.
- Heat protectant spray: Apply this product to protect your hair from heat damage during the K-tip extensions installation process.
Choose The Perfect Keratin Tip
To choose the perfect hair for yourself, it is better to consider several factors to ensure they match your natural hair seamlessly and meet your expectations in terms of quality and durability.
First of all, you need to determine the type of extensions you prefer, such as keratin-tipped, tape-in, clip-in, sew-in, etc. Since you’re specifically interested in keratin tips, make sure they are suitable for your hair type and desired style. You also need to select the length and color of the extensions based on your natural hair length, your natural hair color, and the hairstyle you desire.
Besides the previous criteria, the type of human hair also play important role in describing the appearance of perfect extensions. This factor also directly affected to the price tag of hair extensions. There are two main types of human hair, including remy and non-remy hair. Both of them are human hair, but remy hair has cuticles that are kept intact and aligned in the same direction. This helps prevent tangling and ensures a more natural look and feel. Non-Remy hair extensions may have their cuticles removed or cuticles facing different directions, which can result in tangling and a less natural appearance. Of course, remy hair wins in this game with its longer lifespan, more natural appearance. However, you also have to pay the amount of finances that is equivalent to the quality received.
Prepare Hair To Be Ready For Application
To get a smooth application, it’s necessary to prepare your hair properly. Begin by thoroughly washing and drying your hair, making sure it’s devoid of any styling products. Afterward, use a comb through your hair to remove any tangles or knots.
Divide your hair into smaller sections, starting from the back of your neck and progressing upward. Secure each section with sectioning clips, ensuring they are separate from other sections for easy management. If you want, apply a light mist of heat-protectant spray across your hair to protect it from heat damage.
Install K Tip Hair Extensions: Step-By-Step
At Salon
Normally, the installation process will be at a hair salon, where a skilled professional will do this task for you. In some cases, if you prepare keratin extensions on your own, you need to check again before applying them. Check the allergic reaction of the product before applying it to make sure you are safe with it.
To find a reputable hair salon, check online review platforms like Google, Yelp, or Facebook for reviews from previous customers. Look for patterns in the reviews, such as consistent praise for certain stylists or services, cleanliness, and customer service, or ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Then place an appointment with the hairstylist that you chose before. A professional will have the skill to know how to apply them properly.
Just find a reliable professional, and that’s it – your responsibility will be done!
At Home: Be careful – Not Encourage
If you want to apply at home for many reasons, like financial savings, a hectic schedule, or confidence in your ability, you should be careful with this. The application process contains high risk of damage like shedding, breaking, tangling, burning, etc. And we do not recommend it!
To apply for extensions, there are 2 methods to install hair extensions: hot fusion and cold fusion. Here is our easy guide on how to apply keratin hair extensions
Heat Fusion Method
Step 1: Heat the Fusion Iron
Plug in the fusion iron and allow it to heat up to the appropriate temperature recommended for the keratin adhesive.
Step 2: Apply the Hair Protector Shields
Place hair protector shields around the section of hair where the extensions will be applied. This helps protect the natural hair from excess heat and prevents the keratin from sticking to the surrounding hair.
Step 3: Attach the Extensions
Take a small section of the natural hair and place a keratin-adhesive pellet at the tip of the extension. Use the fusion iron to melt the keratin adhesive, then roll the melted keratin around the natural hair until it bonds securely. Repeat this process for each extension, working in small sections.
Cold Fusion Method
Step 1: Thread the Extensions
Take a small section of the natural hair and thread it through the cold fusion applicator tool (micro ring or shrink tube).
Step 2: Attach the Extension
Slide a keratin extension onto the section of natural hair that’s been threaded through the applicator tool. Position the extension close to the roots.
Step 3: Secure the Extension
Use pliers to clamp the micro ring or shrink tube securely in place, bonding the extension to the natural hair. Repeat this process for each extension, working in small sections.
Step 3: Blend And Style
To achieve a seamless and natural appearance with your keratin bond extensions, there are some tip to blend them with your natural hair:
- Style with Heat Tools
Use a flat iron or curling iron to style the extensions according to your preference. Prioritize the use of a heat protectant spray before applying heat to protect both your natural hair and the extensions.
- Trim and Shape
Trim and shape the extensions as needed to match your chosen hairstyle, ensuring a cohesive and polished look.
- Set with Hairspray
Finish the styling process with a light hairspray to set the style and provide additional hold.
Tadaaaa! Now you can enjoy your transformed look with keratin hair extensions. However, it’s important to note that the installation of keratin tip hair extensions can be time-consuming, typically taking around 4-6 hours for a full-head installation, which means you have to sit at salons or at home for a long time to get the look.
What You Should Know To Take Care Of Your Hair After Installation
To keep the stunning appearance of your keratin tip extensions and prolong their lifespan, there are some advices to adhere to these after-installation care guidelines for your extensions:
- Do not shampoo or conditioner within 24 hours
- Avoid washing your hair for the first 48 hours after application to allow the keratin bonds to set properly.
- Use sulfate-free and gentle hair care products to avoid damaging the extensions. When washing, handle your hair with care, avoiding vigorous movements or scrubbing. Otp gently massages your scalp and hair, ensuring that you cleanse the roots and avoid tangling the extensions.
- Brush your hair regularly, starting from ends to roots, to minimize tangling.
- Avoid excessive heat styling, and always use a heat protectant spray when styling with heat tools.
- Schedule regular maintenance appointments with a professional to maintain the integrity of the extensions.
Before-After
Let’s see the before-after photo with keratin extension ttransformation
Before
Before keratin tip extensions were applied, the original hair had short, medium length, a noticeable lack of volume, and a diminished vibrancy.
After
A remarkable transformation occurs. The i tip seamlessly integrates with the natural hair, endowing it with both length and volume. The head of hair is not only significantly more attractive but also exudes an air of sleekness and smoothness. The once lackluster and uninspiring hair now boasts a renewed vitality, captivating onlookers with its enhanced texture and overall appeal.
Conclusion
Applying keratin tip hair extensions might seem challenging at first, but with the right knowledge and tools, you can apply to your customers and achieve stunning results. By following my guide, you’ll be able to have k-tip extensions installed like an experienced professional. However, last but not least, it is better to get assistance from a professional compared to DIY. As you know, proper technique could bring a stunning appearance without worrying about hidden damage.