What Are Keratin Hair Extensions?
Keratin Hair Extensions are a type of individual strand hair extension. Each strand has a pre-made keratin tip at the top.
During production, keratin granules are melted and bonded to the hair strands. Different molds are then used to shape the keratin into U-Tip, I-Tip, Flat Tip, and other forms. Some types also include a metal wire or plastic wire to support different installation methods.
Each strand usually weighs about 1 gram. The weight can also be adjusted based on the hair length, volume, and product specifications.
Depending on the product structure and attachment method, Keratin Hair Extensions are mainly installed using hot fusion or cold fusion methods.
How Are Keratin Hair Extensions Installed?
Hot Fusion
Flat Tip, U Tip, and V Tip extensions are usually installed using hot fusion. During installation, the keratin tip is placed over a small section of natural hair. A special heating tool is then used to soften the keratin.
Before the keratin cools completely, it is gently rolled and shaped between the thumb and index finger. This creates a small, secure connection point. Once the keratin cools and hardens, the extension is firmly attached to the natural hair.
Cold Fusion
I-Tip, Nano Ring, Plastic Nano Ring, and Y-Tip extensions are usually installed using cold fusion. This method does not require heating the keratin tip.
During installation, a silicone-lined micro bead is first placed onto a small section of natural hair. The tip of the extension is then inserted into the bead. Finally, special hair extension pliers are used to clamp the connection ring tightly. This physically secures the extension to the natural hair.
How Are Keratin Hair Extensions Made?
Different types of Keratin Hair Extensions have different structures, but the basic production process is similar. First, keratin granules are heated and melted. The melted keratin is then firmly bonded to the top of the hair strand. Before the keratin cools, special molds are used to form different shapes.
Before production, workers sort, prepare, and match the raw hair based on the order requirements. They prepare a full batch of hair based on the required total weight, color blend ratio, and long-hair ratio.
Next, Italian keratin granules are heated until they melt. About 1 gram of hair is taken from the prepared batch. A suitable amount of liquid keratin is then evenly applied around the top of the hair strand.
Depending on the product type, the keratin-tipped strand is pressed into shape using a special mold. It may also be combined with a metal ring, plastic ring, or other connection parts. Once the keratin has completely cooled and hardened, it forms different types of Keratin Hair Extensions, such as U-Tip, Flat Tip, I-Tip, and Nano Ring.
What Types of Keratin Hair Extensions Are There?
- Flat Tip: The top of each strand has a flat keratin tip. During installation, a special heating tool is used to soften the keratin. The tip is then attached to the natural hair. The flat connection point helps it sit closer to the hair.
- U-Tip: The top of each strand has a U-shaped keratin tip. It is also commonly called a Nail Tip. During installation, the pre-made keratin tip is heated and softened. It is then rolled into a small, secure connection point.
- V-Tip: The top of each strand has a V-shaped keratin tip. It is installed using hot fusion.
- I-Tip: The top of each strand has a thin, I-shaped tip. The keratin does not need to be heated directly. It is usually installed with a silicone-lined micro bead. Hair extension pliers are used to clamp the bead and physically secure the extension to the natural hair.
- Nano Ring: The top of each strand has a small metal loop. It is usually installed with a very small silicone-lined micro bead. The connection parts are small and are secured using cold fusion.
- Plastic Nano Ring: The top of each strand has a small plastic loop. It is physically secured using a matching silicone-lined micro bead and hair extension pliers. No heat is required.
- Y-Tip: The top of each strand has a Y-shaped structure. It is usually installed with a matching silicone-lined micro bead using cold fusion. The Y-shaped tip provides stable support at the connection point and helps secure the extension to the natural hair.
What Are the Key Features of Keratin Hair Extensions?
- Individual Strand Installation: Keratin Hair Extensions are attached to the natural hair strand by strand. The position, number, and distribution of the strands can be adjusted based on the hair volume and styling needs in different areas. Since each strand must be installed separately, a full-head installation usually takes more time.
- Flexible Hair Movement: Each extension strand can move independently in different directions. This makes the hair easier to brush and allows for different styles, such as ponytails, braids, and updos.
- Small and Secure Connection Points: With proper installation and care, the connection points can stay secure and remain hidden within the natural hair. This helps the extensions blend naturally with the client’s own hair. The connection points can create a slight bump near the roots. Some people may notice them when first wearing the extensions or while sleeping.
- Semi-Permanent Hair Extensions: Once installed, the extensions can be worn continuously for a period of time. They do not need to be removed every day. As the natural hair grows, the connection points gradually move away from the scalp. They therefore need regular checks, adjustments, or removal.
- Professional Service Required: Installation and removal are usually done by a professional hair extension stylist. This helps control the position, weight, and tightness of each connection point. In addition to the cost of the hair extensions, the total cost may also include installation, maintenance, and removal services.
