Are you interested in longer, fuller hair, but don’t want the heavy, glued-in feeling? Natural Beaded Row (NBR) hair extensions are a popular option because they are seamless and lightweight. In this guide, we will go over what makes NBR unique, how they are installed, and how to take care of them in order for you to decide with confidence. Read more on this page.
What Makes NBR Different?
NBR hair extensions use a beaded foundation and hand-tied wefts which creates fewer points of contact on your natural hair and a flatter more flexible outcome. The rows are customized so your stylist can match density, length and color for a natural blend that moves like your hair. NBR technique is often used in combination with balayage or color correction for a completely seamless finish at a luxury hair salon.
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- Lightweight feel: Hand-tied extensions are as close to the scalp as you can get, which means they are considerate of your comfort level and ideal for everyday wear.
- Customizable rows: After assessing your hair type, lifestyle and goals, your stylist will place 1–3 rows that are customized to you.
- Minimal exposure: There is no glue or tape on the hair shaft, and beads simply hold the thread and wefts in place.
- Seamless color match: NBR is perfect for blending with balayage highlights and custom haircuts.
Are NBR Extensions Safe for Your Hair?
When installed and maintained by a certified professional, NBR can be safe for most hair types. The beaded-and-thread method distributes the weight along a row to reduce the burden on each strand. During your application, you will discuss your scalp health, density of strands, and prior chemical services so that the game plan, at all times, reflects a mentality that protects your natural hair.
At our hair salon Houston, your stylist will provide supportive care as well, like deep conditioning treatments, to help keep your own strong beneath the rows. The biggest risks that are faced with hand-tied extensions are DIY applications, missed maintenances, and rough brushing. If you take care of your extensions and make your move-up appointments, you can rest assured that you’ll be in the safe zone all around.
How Is the Installation Process Done?
The process of installing NBR extensions is a collaboration between you and your stylist. An initial consultation will take place to establish your goals, pick a quality of hair, and color-matching for a seamless blend. The following describes what you can expect when you go through an NBR install:
- Consult & color plan: Review your inspiration, discuss length and density you want, and blueprint any balayage or color correction to help with the blending of your extensions.
- Beaded foundation: The stylist sections the hair, places small beads along the row to create the anchor.
- Hand-tie the wefts: Wefts are stitched to the beaded line with thread—no glue—and building density with 1–3 rows.
- Blend & finish: Your stylist will complete precision custom haircuts and polishing to create a natural fall and movement you can successfully style at home.
What Daily Care Do They Need?
Remember “gentle and consistent.” Brush morning and night, supporting the row base as you detangle the ends. Wash 2–3 times per week, use sulfate-free products, and always make sure to dry the base very thoroughly so there is no moisture at the beads. At night, put your hair in a loose braid or low pony to reduce friction.
You can use heat on your extensions—please use a heat protectant and be careful to keep the tools away from the beads. Oils and leave-ins should only be applied from mid-length to ends, stay away from the scalp with anything other than shampoo. If you work out, rinse as much sweat as possible and then blow-dry the base afterward. A Houston stylist who is proficient with hand-tied extensions will understand your lifestyle and be able to work with you to establish a routine that suits you.
How Long Do NBR Extensions Last?
The hair can last for several months with plenty of care, while the extensions will need to be “move-up,” as your natural hair grows. Plan your budget and calendar ahead of time so you are not taken by surprise for maintenance. You will maintain a fresh and full extension look by following a smart care regime, along with consistent appointments.
- Move-up schedule: 6–10 weeks depending on your density and amount of growth.
- Life of wefts: Good quality hand-tied hair will last well with great care for 4–8 months.
- Salon frequency: Regularly scheduled refreshes for color, trims, and deep conditioning will result in more naturally blended rows and longer wear.
NBR gives you fullness to customize, with a lightweight and natural feel. With a qualified professional, the right care routine, and proper maintenance, you are bound to have beautiful and believable length that can fit into your daily life!
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