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Micro Bead Hair Extensions: How They Work, How Long They Last and Who They Suit
September 17, 2026
Micro bead hair extensions attach small sections of your own hair to premium Remy hair using a tiny bead, clamped flat. No heat, no glue, no adhesive. At EH we offer two bead methods: individual micro bead strands, and the micro bead weft. The consultation confirms which one suits your hair. This guide explains how each works, how long they last, what maintenance involves and who they are right for.
Both methods use the same attachment: a section of your natural hair is threaded through a small bead alongside the extension hair, then the bead is closed with a clamp tool. The difference is what the bead holds.
The extension hair is pre-tipped in one-gram strands. Each strand is attached with its own mini plastic-coated copper bead, so the hair moves freely and you can run your fingers through it at the scalp. A full head takes around two hours and uses 75 to 150 strands depending on the result you want.
The extension hair comes as a hand-sewn weft, a continuous seam of double-drawn hair. A row of beads is fitted to small sections of natural hair, about three-quarters of an inch apart, and the weft is secured along that row. Fewer attachment points create a fuller finish through the ends and a faster application. Wefts are measured to each section and stopped roughly one inch from the hairline, so the hair can be worn up.
Micro bead weft: a bead row being closed with pliers. The weft is then secured along this row.
Our Signature Weft is a separate, newer weft method that sits lighter and flatter and installs faster. If you are weighing up wefts, the consultation will cover both.
Application takes one to two hours for strands and less for a weft, depending on how much hair is applied.
The hair and the attachment have different lifespans, and it helps to separate them.
Skipping maintenance is the most common cause of tension and tangling. Booking the next appointment before you leave the salon keeps the schedule on track.
| Your hair | What we usually recommend |
|---|---|
| Thick, wants volume and length | Micro bead weft. Fewer attachment points, fuller ends, quicker application. |
| Medium, wants movement at the scalp | Micro bead strands, in a number that suits the hair’s density. |
| Shoulder length or longer | Either method. Natural hair close to shoulder length blends best. |
| Fine or fragile | Usually a lighter method such as invisible tape. The consultation confirms this. |
| Wears hair up most days | Micro bead weft, placed one inch from the hairline. |
Not when they are fitted correctly and maintained on schedule. The method uses no heat, glue or chemicals, and the bead is designed to hold without pulling. Damage comes from three things: too much weight for the hair, beads left to grow out too long, or home removal. All three are avoided by a proper consultation, a regular maintenance rhythm and professional removal.
Our guide on how often to wash hair extensions covers the routine in more detail.
Every EH extension package includes premium Remy hair applied with your chosen method, professional application, a cut and blend by a qualified technician, and a follow-up appointment if requested. Prices depend on the amount of hair and the method, and are confirmed at your consultation. How hair extension pricing works at EH explains what shapes the cost.
Micro bead strands and micro bead wefts are available at all four EH salons.
A consultation confirms the method, the amount of hair and the colour match for your hair. It takes about 30 minutes. A $49 booking fee holds your appointment and is fully redeemable on your service.
Book a consultation or call our salon concierge on 1300 181 000.
Between 75 and 150 one-gram strands. Fewer for volume, more for length and fullness. Your stylist confirms the number at consultation based on your hair density.
One to two hours for a full head of strands. A micro bead weft is faster because fewer attachment points are needed.
Every five to six weeks for strands and four to six weeks for a weft. The beads are moved back up as your hair grows.
Yes. Wefts are placed one inch from the hairline and strands are positioned so attachments stay hidden in a ponytail.
Yes. The hair is reused at each maintenance visit for its nine to twelve month life. Only the beads are replaced when needed.
Neither is better in general. Strands give more movement at the scalp and suit medium hair. Wefts give fuller ends and a faster application and suit thick hair. The consultation decides.
