All about the micro-link—invisible hair extension

All about the micro-link—invisible hair extension

Micro-link extension has been a closely kept secret among White women, but the hair extension technique has gone viral on social media lately. For many years, Hollywood celebrities used the technique for their glamorous hairdos that look very natural.  Micro-link is not a new method of hair extension, but it owes its rising popularity to social media.

 

What is micro-link?

Micro-link extensions utilize small beads made of silicon or metal that sits close to your scalp and link your hair to the extensions. Micro-link does not require gluing or braiding of hair, so it is reportedly a lot healthier option for the scalp than other hair extension methods. Cornrows are not needed for the procedure, but because the hair extensions will be attached to your natural hair, the key to a successful styling is finding hair extensions that are most similar to your natural hair’s texture and color. Micro-loop products come with pre-installed beads, so they are easier to apply.

Tools and extensions for micro-link ©Aliexpress/Amazon

How to perform a micro-link procedure?

As mentioned above, micro-link method requires you to have sufficiently long hair with healthy scalp. It is not an option if you have alopecia. If you have sufficient length of hair to cover the area where the micro beads link hair extensions, it will be a great styling option. To perform micro-link extension using I-tip method, you section one’s hair into small strands and slide them through beads, using a pulling needle. Then, you insert I-tip hair extensions into the beads and clamp them together with hair extension pliers.

 

How to do micro-link using hair extension loops ©U-buy.com


 Still images from a YouTube video ©Simonesharice

Who should try micro-link?

Micro-link is not suitable for hair shorter than 3-inch. Also, damaged hair is susceptible to further damage or even breakage due to the tension created by beads, so you should ensure you start with healthy natural hair. Top hair should cover the beads area underneath for a natural-looking hairdo. If your hair is too slippery due to the use of relaxers, you might have hard time fixing beads. Naturally textured hair is a good starting point. Typically, a micro-link procedure takes about 2-3 hours, where you would apply 75 to 100 hair extensions.  Although it varies for different individuals, experts recommend that you adjust beads and restyle the hair every 4 to 6 weeks.

 

Pros and cons of micro-link

As opposed to using glues for hair extension, you can shampoo and apply treatment more confidently. Because only a small amount of hair was used for hair extension, it moves more freely. In addition, the scalp damage is especially troublesome for braiding, but the micro-link extensions do not pull the scalp as hard, decreasing hair damages and stress on the scalp. On the other hand, the extensions can irritate and cause discomfort during the first three weeks while the beads sit closely on the scalp. Also, you must visit a salon when you want to remove the hair extensions. For a proper maintenance, you need to make a salon appointment every two to four months.

 

How do you shampoo?

If you rub your scalp too hard, you can pull the beads out. You should gently rub the scalp while you are shampooing. You should avoid shampoos containing parabens, silicon, or protein because they can weaken the connection of beads, leading to hair extensions to fall off. When applying conditioner, you start applying it from the middle of the hair skipping the area with beads. When you dry your hair, wrapping it with a towel can tangle the hair, so you should section your hair first and for each section, squeeze out extra water and blot with a towel until dry.

 

How do you maintain micro-link hair extensions?

Chlorine in the water can damage the hair, so before you bathe or swim, ponytail your hair up. To avoid damages to the beads, comb your hair gradually moving up from the tip to the scalp area. Before you go to bed, get a satin pillow or cap to prevent tangling.

Removal of micro-link hair extensions © SIMONESHARICE Youtube

Hair Trend BY Joo Park
BNB Magazine APR 2022 ©bnbmag.com

  

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