Whether you’re after extra length, volume or a seamless and discreet look, the method you choose can make all the difference.

Here is everything you need to know about Tape, Micro ring and Micro Bond extensions before you book your appointment.

With so many different hair extension methods available, it can feel difficult to figure out which one is right for you. The good news? There’s a lot of information out there to help you make an informed decision – it all comes down to hair type, lifestyle, maintenance preference and the look you want to achieve. We are going to break down each method to help you learn more about the different hair extension methods available to you. Our Senior Hair Extensions Specialist, Amy, says:

“Each method suits a different stage of a client’s journey, and it often evolves over time depending on their lifestyle, hair condition, and goals.”

Tape In Extensions

Fast, flat and fab! Perfect for adding volume and length

Tape-in extensions use thin wefts of hair attached to your natural hair using a medical-grade adhesive tape. They’re applied in sandwich sections, one tape above and one below, creating a flat, discreet result that sits close to the scalp. Our Senior Hair Extensions Specialist, Amy, explains:

“Tape-ins are semi-permanent. They sit flat against the head in panels and are designed to be worn continuously for several weeks. They are quicker to apply than most methods and are great for efficiently adding volume and length. They do require maintenance and need to be refitted as your hair grows.”

Micro Ring hair extensions

A flexible method, tried, tested and loved by extension wearers worldwide

Micro ring hair extensions use tiny metal rings to attach individual strands of hair extensions to small sections of your natural hair. The ring is clamped shut using a pair of pliers; no heat or glue is used, making it one of the most popular methods. Each strand is attached individually, and micro rings offer incredible flexibility and movement, blending seamlessly with your natural hair.

“I had a client come to me who didn’t want dramatic length. She just wanted her hair to feel thicker and more like it used to. She has fine, shoulder-length hair and was really conscious of damage, so micro rings were the perfect choice because there’s no glue or heat involved.

During her consultation, I carefully colour-matched everything and recommended about 150 strands. The goal was fullness and movement, not obvious extensions. She was excited but slightly nervous about how long the fitting would take.

On the day of installation, it took about three and a half hours. She said it felt much more comfortable than she expected. There was a little tightness the first night, which I always explain is completely normal, but by the second day, she told me she barely noticed them.

When I finished cutting and blending, her reaction said everything. She kept touching her hair and smiling. She told me it still felt like her hair, just better. That is always the aim.

Over the next few weeks, she loved how her ponytails looked thicker and how her curls held for longer. Friends were complimenting her without knowing exactly what had changed. That is when you know the placement is seamless.

At seven weeks, she came back for maintenance. Everything was still in great condition. We moved the rings up, reused the hair, and it looked fresh all over again.

For me, as a stylist, micro rings are about enhancing what someone already has. When they are fitted properly and well looked after, they should feel natural and effortless. That is why I love offering them to the right clients.” Amy Senior, Hair Extensions Specialist

Micro Bond hair extensions

Individual strand extensions, durable, seamless and beautifully natural, perfect for finer hair types

Micro bond hair extensions (also known as keratin bond extensions) use keratin and a small amount of heat to attach individual strands of hair. When applied with a heat tool, the keratin bond is created by taking a small, safe section of your own hair and rolling a keratin-tipped strand around it with your fingertips, forming a bond the size of a grain of rice. This creates a strong, long-lasting connection that moves and can be treated just like your own hair.

“I have a client who had tried a few different methods, but we moved over to Micro Bonds. This method gave her the best of both worlds. She had the fullness and length she loved, but with much more movement, discretion, and customisation. We could tailor the placement, work around her hairline, and create a result that looked and felt completely natural.” Amy Senior, Hair Extensions Specialist

At a glance: how do they compare?

When it comes to choosing between tape-in, ring and bond extensions, it really comes down to your hair type, lifestyle and the level of commitment you’re looking for. Tape-ins are the quickest to apply and a brilliant option for those who want a seamless result with a faster turnaround, ideal if you’re new to extensions or prefer more regular changes.

Micro Rings are a fantastic heat-free, adhesive-free alternative that is gentle on the hair and easy to maintain, making them a popular choice for those who want flexibility without compromising on longevity. Bonds, on the other hand, offer an incredibly natural look and feel that’s perfect for finer hair types. Whichever method you’re drawn to, the most important thing is having a consultation first so one of our hair extension specialists can assess your hair and recommend the best option for you.

“I have had clients who have tried a mix of methods. I had one who started with Micro Bond extensions but then moved to Tapes because she wanted something quicker and lower-maintenance in terms of appointment time. It really depends on the individual. It is less about which method is best and more about what works for you at that point in your hair journey.” Amy Senior, Hair Extensions Specialist

So, which method is right for you?

The truth is, the best extension method is the one that suits your hair, your lifestyle and your goals, and that’s exactly why a thorough consultation is so important. At your appointment, we’ll assess your natural hair, discuss the look you’re after and recommend the method that will give you the best long-lasting result.

One thing is true across all three methods: the quality of the hair and your specialist’s skill matter more than anything else. Whichever method you choose, you deserve extensions that look seamless, feel comfortable, and genuinely enhance your natural hair.

Book a free consultation!

Sarah Mckenna

Sarah McKenna is the founder of Vixen & Blush and The London Hair Lab. Sarah graduated as a research biochemist in 2005 and started a career within the pharmaceutical industry, before becoming a hair extensions expert. In 2010, Sarah gained insight into the hair extensions industry and could see that clients had a very poor value/quality proposition. At that time, poor-quality hair extensions were available, at prohibitively high prices. Sarah left her initial career and set out on a mission to improve the hair extensions industry in the UK, using her research and development skills.

Spending 3 years securing a high-quality and sustainable supply of human hair, Sarah then developed new products and fitting techniques to allow long-term refits of the same hair. In this way, Sarah was able to offer hair extensions services at a more affordable price to clients, while improving the quality of the service for her clients.

With Vixen & Blush starting in 2012 as a 1 chair salon in London, Sarah quickly grew the business to what it is today, a team of more than 20 hair professionals working together as London’s leading hair extensions specialists.