What Are I-Tip Hair Extensions?
I-Tip is a semi-permanent hair extension attached strand by strand with microbeads. It is made from human hair and Italian keratin. The top has a cylindrical keratin bond shaped like the letter “I.” A standard bond is about 15 mm long and 2 mm in diameter, and each strand weighs about 1 g.
Installation does not require heat or glue. Once installed, each strand can move freely in 360°. I-Tip extensions are lightweight and breathable, with a natural appearance. They are also flexible, easy to install, and easy to remove.
How Are I-Tip Hair Extensions Installed?
I-Tip is usually installed by a professional hairstylist. Before installation, the stylist checks the client’s hair type, length, color, and desired result. Based on these factors, the stylist determines the number of strands, color combination, and installation areas.
During installation, a small section of natural hair is threaded through a silicone-lined micro bead with an inner diameter of about 3 mm. The I-Tip bond is then inserted into the bead. The bead is clamped with special pliers about 0.5–1 cm from the scalp.
The inner diameter of the silicone-lined micro bead should not be too small. Otherwise, there may not be enough natural hair inside the bead to support the extension. This can concentrate the weight of the extension on only a few natural hairs, increasing pulling and the risk of damage.
How Are I-Tip Hair Extensions Made?
I-Tip is mainly made from human hair and Italian keratin. Before production, workers sort the human hair and prepare the required color and weight based on the order. Keratin granules in a matching color are placed in a special heating device, where they are melted and kept warm.
To make each I-Tip strand, a worker takes about 1 g of the prepared hair and evenly coats the top with melted keratin. After the bond is roughly shaped, it is placed into a special metal mold and pressed into its final shape. Once the keratin has completely cooled and hardened, it forms the standard cylindrical “I”-shaped bond.
Key Features and Benefits of I-Tip Hair Extensions
- 360° Flexible Movement
Each strand is attached separately, allowing it to move naturally for a more realistic and flexible result. - Natural, Discreet Connections
The keratin bonds and silicone-lined microbeads can be matched to the hair color. The small connection points blend naturally with the client’s own hair. - Flexible Placement
The placement and distribution of the strands can be adjusted based on the client’s head shape, hair density, and styling needs. - No Heat or Glue Required
I-Tip extensions are secured with micro beads, so no heat or glue is needed during installation. This helps reduce the impact on the natural hair. - Easy Removal and Maintenance
The micro beads can be quickly opened with special pliers, making it easy to remove, reposition, or reinstall the extensions.
