Hair
Hair extensions: keratin, micro rings or tapes?
Three methods, three different compromises between durability, gentleness, and price. The decision should be based on the condition of your hair, not on what's fastest.
Linda Borovková· 25/07/2026· 4 min read
When deciding on hair extensions, the choice of method is more important than the choice of length. Length can be shortened, but a poorly chosen method for weakened hair cannot be corrected.
All three methods we use work with real human hair. The difference lies in how the strand is attached to your hair.
Hot fusion keratin
The strand has a keratin bond at the end, which is fused to your natural hair with heat pliers.
Pros: The smallest and least noticeable bond of all methods. It's neither visible nor palpable within the hair density, so it works well with updos and high ponytails. The longest interval between maintenance — three to four months.
Cons: The longest application, around five and a half hours for a full set of extensions. Requires healthy hair that can support the bond. Removal is slower, as the bond needs to be dissolved.
Who it's for: Healthy hair of normal density, for those who want the most discreet result and don't want frequent maintenance.
Micro Ring
The strand is attached with a tiny ring, which is mechanically clamped. No heat, no adhesive.
Pros: No chemicals or heat are applied to the hair, making it the gentlest option for weakened and fine hair. Adjusting the bonds is quick — the ring is loosened, moved, and re-clamped. The strand can be reused more times than with other methods. Removal takes minutes, and the hair remains untouched.
Cons: The ring is more palpable. It's not visible in the hair, but you'll feel it when stroking your head. Maintenance is slightly more frequent, every two to three months.
Who it's for: Weakened, fine, or colour-damaged hair. For those who don't want a heat bond. For those planning to wear extensions long-term and want to reuse the hair multiple times.
Tape-in Hair Extensions
The strand is on a thin adhesive tape. It's attached from both underneath and above, with your natural hair sandwiched between them.
Pros: Fastest application. The tape is flat and lies close to the head, so it's concealed even in finer hair. Great for adding volume — a few tapes in the upper sections can make a big difference without changing your length. Easy removal.
Cons: Shortest maintenance interval, six to eight weeks. With high ponytails and updos, they can be revealed sooner than keratin bonds. Oil and silicone serums can loosen the adhesive, so care is a bit more delicate.
Who it's for: Those who primarily want volume, who don't have all day for application, or who want to try extensions before committing to keratin.
Quick Comparison
| | Hot fusion keratin | Micro Ring | Tape-in | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Bond size | smallest | medium, palpable | flat, low | | Gentleness to hair | requires healthy hair | gentlest | medium | | Application | ~5.5 hrs | ~3 hrs | fastest | | Bond adjustment | 3–4 months | 2–3 months | 6–8 weeks | | Updos | yes | yes | with consideration |
What Applies to All Three Methods
Maintenance cannot be postponed. Hair grows from the root, and the bond moves further from the head. Overgrown bonds tangle together and then pull out your natural hair when brushing. This is the most common reason why someone might say extensions ruined their hair — and it's not a flaw in the method, but a delayed appointment.
Removal belongs in the salon. Attempting to remove them at home is the second most common reason. For all three methods, there is a way to dissolve or loosen the bond so that your natural hair remains untouched.
Care is similar: sulphate-free shampoo, conditioner and mask only on the ends, a loose plait at night, brush from bottom to top with a hair extension brush, never apply oil serums to the bonds.
Why We'll Call You Before Application
Neither the price nor the length of the appointment for hair extensions can be estimated from a photo. The desired length, the density of the result, and the number of strands are all determining factors — and these vary for each client.
Therefore, after booking, we will contact you to discuss the length, shade, texture, and scope, and you will know the final amount before you arrive. Additionally, with tape-in extensions, it's good to know that the price in the price list is for one tape, not for a full set of extensions.
If You're Unsure
Come in for a consultation. We'll assess the condition of your hair and tell you which method is suitable for it — even if that means we recommend postponing extensions for now.
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