Overview
Micro bonds are one of the most precise and natural-looking hair extension methods available for finer hair types. They require a skilled, trained specialist to apply and remove them correctly and a willingness to commit to the maintenance and wear time of the method
“Micro bonds are especially popular with clients who have finer hair. They’re super lightweight, very moveable, and extremely comfortable to wear. Because they feel so light, the overall wearability is excellent. They’re also very durable, so although they’re gentle on the natural hair, they hold really well.”
Brodie, Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Who micro bonds typically suit best
Micro bonds tend to work beautifully for clients with fine to medium hair who are looking for a natural, seamless result. They're particularly well suited to those with uneven density, shorter layers, or thinning areas where precise placement really matters. Lifestyle-wise, they're a great choice for clients who are active or wash their hair frequently, as the bonds are secure and hold up well with the right aftercare. They also suit clients who want a long-term commitment to extensions rather than a temporary fix.
It's worth knowing that extensions do take a little longer to blow dry but once dried they can be heat styled and will hold that style beautifully for up to three days, meaning many clients find they spend less time on their hair overall. Most naturally start washing their hair a little less frequently too, which only helps the longevity of the style.
“They’re also incredibly discreet and tiny, which makes them ideal for adding volume in more visible areas. If you want to work closer to the front, higher up, or fill in areas with breakage, micro bonds are one of the best methods. They allow you to add fullness in a very natural looking way.”
Brodie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Who they are NOT ideal for
Micro bonds aren't the best option for everyone. If you have extremely damaged, thin or fragile hair you might not be suited to Micro Bonds as your hair requires a degree of natural hair strength to sit securely. They might not be the best choice for clients who want a quick, low maintenance option- the application time is a little longer and the method does require salon visits every 3 months with new hair needed each time.
How they differ from tape-ins and micro rings
Tape extensions are a semi-permanent method applied in pairs, with one tape sandwiching a small section of your natural hair from above and below to create a flat, secure bond. Because they're applied in panels rather than individual strands, they're quicker to fit than strand-by-strand methods, making them a great option for clients who want a faster application. They're brilliant for adding volume and length, though they are less adaptable around finer or more delicate areas where individual placement is needed.
Micro rings are a strand-by-strand method, much like micro bonds, but use a small metal ring to secure each extension rather than a keratin bond, making them a completely heat-free option. They work best for clients with normal to thicker hair density at the root. However, for clients with finer hair types, micro rings are not recommended as they are only suitable for hair that is dense at the root.
Typical wear cycle and maintenance commitment
Micro bonds typically last around three months before they need to be removed and a fresh set fitted. During this time, regular brushing, ideally morning and evening with a good quality extension brush is essential to keeping the bonds and the hair in great condition and preventing any tangling. The use of extension-safe, salon quality products is also important, as certain ingredients can break down the bonds prematurely and shorten their wear cycle.
It's also worth factoring in that micro bonds are not reusable, meaning a fresh set of hair is needed at each fitting. Sleeping with the hair in a loose braid or plait is something we always recommend, as this helps to minimise friction and tangling overnight.
Clients should feel comfortable committing to the three-month maintenance schedule to get the very best results. For those who stay on top of the aftercare, micro bonds can look and feel absolutely stunning for the full wear cycle.
How Micro Bonds Work — The Method Explained
What are Micro Bond’s made of?
Micro bonds are made of keratin resin, the same protein that your natural hair and nails are made of. It's gentle, flexible, and when applied correctly, sits comfortably against the scalp.
How is each strand applied?
Micro bonds are one of the most skilled and precise methods available, which is why they can only be fitted by a fully trained hair extension specialist. The process involves taking a small, carefully sectioned piece of your natural hair and wrapping a keratin-tipped extension strand around it, using the fingertips to gently roll and mold the bond into place. The result is a tiny, neat bond, roughly the size of a grain of rice that sits discreetly at the root. This is then repeated strand by strand until your desired look is achieved.
“Each bond is placed strategically to ensure a seamless blend, meaning the extensions sit comfortably and remain virtually undetectable. Because the bonds are so small, they are perfect for creating natural looking length, adding volume, or enhancing finer areas around the hairline. With the right placement and aftercare, micro bonds can last for several months while maintaining the health of your natural hair”.
Rosie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
What does it feel like during application?
Most clients find the application very comfortable. A heat tool is used for a small amount of pressure as each bond is formed. Because the bonds are so small and applied individually it’s a gentle process which is repeated across each strand.
“Every application I do is completely tailored to the client. I take into account hair type, density, lifestyle, and the overall look they are trying to achieve. I had a client who came to me with quite short hair and wanted a noticeable transformation while still keeping it looking natural. By carefully placing the bonds and blending the extensions, we were able to create lengths that looked effortless and realistic, and she was amazed at how lightweight and comfortable they felt.”
Amy Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
What do Micro Bonds look and feel like once fitted?
Once fitted, each bond sits as a small, smooth and neat cylinder at the root, roughly the size of a grain of rice. They're designed to lie flat and close against the head, so there's no bulk or raised texture to worry about. Because your natural hair falls over the bonds, they're incredibly discreet.
To the touch, the bonds feel smooth, and most clients are surprised by just how little they can feel them day to day. When fitted correctly by a specialist, they shouldn't cause any discomfort or pulling, and they move naturally with your hair.
How do removals of Micro Bonds work?
Removals are straightforward when done by a professional. A specialist solution is applied directly to each bond, which works to break down the keratin and gently softens it. Once the bond has been loosened, it can be carefully slid away from your natural hair. Once all the bonds have been removed, your hair is then thoroughly brushed through to remove any excess residue, then you are ready for a new set of Micro Bonds to be applied.
Why does strand-by-strand create a different result?
With Micro Bonds, every single strand can be positioned individually, meaning your stylist has complete control over placement, direction and density at every point, this makes it possible to work around finer areas, blend shorter layers and build up a result. If you are lacking density at the root and want a realistic natural looking result, micro bonds can be added safely in more mobile areas.
Suitability: Hair Type and Density
3a. Very fine / fragile hair:
Where we would always urge a little more caution is if the hair is fine because it's fragile or damaged, rather than just naturally fine in texture. These are two very different things, and it's a really important distinction to make.
Fragile hair, whether caused by over-processing, colour damage, breakage, or health-related thinning, has a compromised structure, which means it needs a little more care and consideration before any extension method is applied. Even though micro bonds are one of the gentler methods available, each bond does attach directly to a section of your natural hair, and if that hair is already under stress, adding any additional weight or tension. however minimal isn't something we'd ever want to do without being confident the hair can handle it.
Health-related thinning in particular is something we take really seriously. Conditions such as postpartum hair loss, alopecia, or thinning caused by dietary or hormonal changes can all affect the integrity of the hair at the root, and in these cases it's really important to use the correct hair extension method.
That doesn't necessarily mean micro bond extensions won’t be right, but it does mean that a thorough, honest consultation with a specialist is absolutely essential first. This will allow the stylist to assess the condition, density and strength of your natural hair and give you a completely honest picture of whether micro bonds are the right choice for you at that time or can suggest some alternative extension methods which might work better for your hair type.
“I have a client who experienced a lot of breakage around the front due to heat styling and lightening. The front sections had become much shorter than the rest of her hair. Normally, extensions would have to be placed further back, making it difficult to fill those areas. In her case, we customised the micro bonds into even smaller “baby bonds,” allowing us to work right at the front. This meant we could restore the fullness she’d lost from heat and bleach in a way that wouldn’t have been possible with other methods."
Brodie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
3b. Fine to medium hair:
Micro bonds are a wonderful option for clients with fine hair, and one of the best methods available for this hair type.
Because every single strand is placed individually, your stylist has complete control over exactly where each extension sits. This means they can work carefully and precisely around finer areas, building up density gradually and naturally without ever over-loading the hair. It's this level of precision that makes micro bonds stand out, rather than applying large panels or sections, each bond is tailored completely to what your hair needs.
The bonds themselves are also small and lightweight, which means they sit discreetly and comfortably against the root without putting unnecessary strain on finer strands. When fitted correctly by a specialist, fine hair clients are often amazed by just how natural and undetectable the result feels.
“For fine hair, I like to use bonds or tapes, depending on the desired result for the client. For example, if they wanted more length, I’d go for Micro Bonds because you can get more in and also if you wanted more fullness around the face, because they're smaller and more discreet.”
Zoe Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
3c. Medium density hair:
Medium density hair is a great foundation for most extension methods and if this sounds like your hair type, you're actually in a really lovely position because you have plenty of options available to you!
While micro bonds can absolutely work well on medium density hair, if you have a good, healthy level of density at the root we'd probably point you in the direction of micro rings or tape extensions first. Micro bonds really come into their own for clients who need a high level of placement precision, particularly those with finer or uneven density where every strand needs to be carefully considered. For clients with medium density hair, that level of detail isn't always necessary, and you may find that micro rings or tape extensions give you an equally stunning result in a more time and cost-effective way.
Micro rings are a brilliant heat-free strand-by-strand option that works beautifully with medium density hair, sitting discreetly and securely at the root. Tape extensions on the other hand are a fantastic choice if you're looking for a quicker application and a gorgeous, voluminous result and medium density hair tends to be the perfect base for tapes to sit and blend seamlessly.
“For medium-density hair, it can be any of the methods, just depending on the client's natural root. But typically, Micro Rings or Micro Bonds”
Zoe Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
3d. Thick hair:
Micro bond extensions are best suited to finer hair types, where the small bond can sit discreetly and blend effortlessly. For clients with thicker hair, ring or tape extensions tend to be a much better fit. Rings offer a secure attachment that works beautifully with denser hair, while tape extensions lay flat against the root for a natural, lightweight finish that suits fuller hair particularly well.
“For thick hair, I would recommend rings because of the denser root area. You can create more fullness without having too much hair in, and they will hold well on the hair.”
Zoe Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
“After an in-depth consultation, my client initially was interested in Micro Bond extensions. However, after assessing her hair health, lifestyle, and daily routine, Micro Rings were a more suitable option.
She has naturally long, thick hair with strong density at the root, which makes her an ideal candidate for this method. One of the key advantages of micro rings is that they are reusable, making them a great long-term solution.
While her natural hair already has great length and volume, the ring extensions will enhance her ability to hold curls and maintain styled looks more effectively. Since she is looking for a long-term option, choosing a reusable method like micro rings was the best fit for her needs.”
Rosie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Lifestyle Compatibility
Lifestyle is one of the most underestimated factors when choosing an extension method. Being open about your daily routine during consultation is essential to getting an accurate assessment.
EXERCISE & THE GYM
Micro bonds hold up well to an active lifestyle. Sweat alone is unlikely to cause bonds to slip, but we recommend avoiding applying leave-in conditioners or oils near the bonds after a workout, as product build-up around the attachment point can weaken them over time. Always ensure the hair is fully dried at the root after exercise rather than leaving bonds damp for extended periods.
FREQUENT WASHING
Micro bonds are generally well-suited to clients who wash their hair regularly. Keratin bonds are more resilient to washing provided the right products are used. A salon quality shampoo and conditioner are essential. Washing two to three times a week is perfectly manageable, though we always recommend drying the bonds thoroughly after each wash.
“They’re particularly good for clients who struggle with oilier hair, where other extension methods might slip or feel less secure. While it’s still important to keep the root area clean, micro bonds tend to stay in place really well and remain secure”.
Brodie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
SWIMMING
We recommend wearing hair in a low ponytail when swimming where possible, rinsing the hair immediately afterwards, and avoiding prolonged soaking. Clients who swim frequently may find their bonds require more maintenance appointments, and it is worth discussing this during your consultation so we can advise on the best aftercare routine.
Heat styling
Clients can use straighteners and curlers as normal, provided heat is kept away from the bonds themselves. Applying direct heat to the bond can soften the keratin and cause it to loosen or reshape, so we recommend always starting a few centimetres below the attachment point. A good heat protectant is essential, applied to the mid lengths and ends rather than the roots.
I had a client who worked long shifts and barely had time in the mornings to style her hair. She used to rely on clip ins for volume, but found them too time consuming on busy days. Once she switched to micro bonds, she told me it completely changed her routine because she could wake up, brush her hair, and go, while still feeling confident and put together.”
Jade Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Low-maintenance routines
Micro bonds are a great option for clients who do not style their hair frequently, as they do not rely on regular heat or manipulation to stay looking their best. The main requirement is keeping the bonds dry and free from product build-up at the root. If the hair is brushed gently from the root using a suitable hairbrush such as a Tangle Teezer and washed and dried properly when needed, bonds are very manageable. They also have a 3-month wear time so trips to the salon are less frequent then for methods like tape extensions which have a wear time of 6-8 weeks.
“They are also ideal for people with busier lifestyles, as they hold their style well and do not need daily restyling. Micro bonds are designed for clients who want a more permanent, seamless result that becomes part of their everyday hair. Because they stay in place for several weeks at a time, they are ideal for clients who want low maintenance hair that they can wake up, style, and go with confidence”.
Jade Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
When Micro Bonds Are Not the Best Choice
delaying maintenance
We recommend micro bond extensions are maintained every 3 months. Beyond this, the natural hair continues to grow, and the bonds begin to move further down the hair shaft, increasing the risk of matting, tangling, and unnecessary strain on the root. At 4 months or more, the bonds can become difficult to remove safely, and the condition of both the natural hair and the extensions can be affected. Leaving bonds in too long is one of the most common causes of hair damage and in some cases, it can result in breakage that takes considerable time to recover from. It’s always very important to come in for your maintenance appointments on time, to ensure the health of your extensions and natural hair.
Is my hair too short?
For micro bonds to be applied safely and sit discreetly, you need to have enough natural hair to gather back into a small ponytail. If the hair is too short, the bonds will be visible. If your hair isn't this length yet, we recommend waiting until it has grown a little more before booking in for extensions.
High shedding hair
Clients experiencing postpartum hair loss, stress-related shedding, or any significant change in hair density need to be assessed carefully before having extensions applied. When the natural hair is shedding heavily, extensions can accelerate that loss by placing additional weight and tension on already vulnerable follicles. In many cases we would recommend waiting until the shedding has stabilised before proceeding, and we would always rather have that honest conversation than apply extensions that could make the situation worse.
Application time
Micro bonds are not a quick appointment. A full head can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on the volume and length of hair being applied, if you are looking for a faster appointment, tape or clip in hair extensions are a much more time-efficient option, often taking under an hour to apply.
Budget and refit costs
It is important to understand that micro bonds require a full new set of hair at every refit. Unlike some other methods where the hair can be reused, the keratin bond is a one-use attachment, meaning the cost of the hair itself is a recurring expense at every appointment. We always encourage clients to factor this into their budget before committing to the method.
Removing at home
Please do not attempt to remove micro bonds at home. The removal process requires a specific bond remover solution and the right technique to break down the keratin safely without pulling the natural hair. Attempting to slide, pick, or pull bonds out without the correct product and training may cause damage to the hair. Removal appointments are straightforward, and it is always worth coming into the salon.
“They are not perfect for everyone. If someone has very thick, dense hair and is looking for a quick, high impact transformation, another method like tapes might achieve that look faster. They also may not be ideal for clients who do not want to commit to regular maintenance appointments, as the small bonds do need consistent upkeep to keep them looking their best.”
Jade Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Micro Bonds vs Other Methods
Micro Bonds vs Tape-ins
If you are trying to decide between these two, the first thing I always look at is your hair density and how much time you have got.
Micro bonds work best on finer hair types. Because each bond is individually placed, they blend beautifully into lighter, less dense hair and give an incredibly natural finish. They also last longer between maintenance appointments, typically 3 months, which makes them a great option if you want to space out your salon visits.
Tape-ins are often the better choice for clients with thicker or denser hair. The tapes sit flat against the head and have no problem sitting flush against more substantial hair, giving a seamless result. The trade-off is that tapes generally need to be moved up a little sooner, usually every 6 to 8 weeks.
In terms of application time, tapes are also significantly quicker to put in, which is worth considering if you have got a busy schedule and want to keep your time in the chair to a minimum.
If you have finer hair and are happy to come in a little less often, Mico Bonds are a great match. Thicker hair or looking for a faster appointment, tapes will serve you better.
“Compared to tape ins, micro bonds allow for much more precise placement. You can work higher up, closer to the front, and in more delicate areas, which makes them a better option for blending and detailed work. Tape ins are quicker to apply and great for adding volume in larger sections, but they do not offer the same level of customisation”
Jade, Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Micro Bonds vs Micro Rings
If you are weighing up bonds versus rings, hair density is honestly one of the biggest factors I look at when making a recommendation.
Micro bonds tend to work best on finer to medium hair. The keratin tip is small and discreet and on finer hair it sits completely flush and virtually disappears into the natural hair.
Micro rings suit a wider range of hair densities. The ring itself can be adjusted to accommodate a bit more hair, which makes it a solid option for clients sitting in that medium to thicker category who still want an individually placed method.
Both methods give you the same level of styling flexibility and a very similar result in terms of length and volume. It really does come down to what your hair can carry most comfortably.
“In terms of how they differ from other methods, micro bonds are much smaller and more flexible than micro rings, which can sometimes feel a bit bulkier and more structured”
Sophia, Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Micro Bonds vs Clip-ins
Clip-ins and micro bonds are really solving two different problems.
Clip-ins are brilliant if you want something you can put in for a night out and take out before bed. They have zero commitment, and you are completely in control. If you are just dipping your toe into extensions for the first time or just want an added volume boost for a special event, they are perfect.
“Micro bonds and clip-ins both have their place, but they suit very different needs and lifestyles. Clip ins are a great option for clients who want something temporary, flexible, and easy to remove at home. They are perfect for occasional use, such as events, nights out, or days when extra volume or length is wanted without any long term commitment.”
Sophia Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
“I had a client who was a busy professional and previously used clip-ins for added volume. At first they worked well for her, but over time she found the daily application and removal became unrealistic with her schedule. She wanted something she could rely on long term without thinking about it every morning. After moving her onto micro bonds, she found her routine became much simpler and she no longer had to plan her hair around her day.”
Kalela , Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Micro bonds are for the clients who want long lasting results, they are a permanent method for finer hair types and require more commitment.
“I had a client previously who came to me regularly for clip-ins because she loved switching up her look for events and weekends, but she always had to think ahead and plan her styling around them. After a while, she started to feel she wanted something more effortless for her day to day life, so we moved her onto micro bonds instead. The difference for her was huge, as she could still achieve the same fullness and length, but without the daily application and removal.”
Jade Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Long-Term Wear: A 12-Month Outlook
Appointments per year
On a 3-month wear cycle, you are looking at roughly 4 salon visits per year. It is worth building this into your calendar and your budget from the start.
Why new hair is needed at every refit
With micro bonds, the keratin tip is not re-usable, the bond must be broken down completely to release it safely from the natural hair, which means the extensions can’t be reused. Unlike rings, where the hair can be removed and re-fitted, with Micro Bonds new hair is needed each time. Every refit means a fresh set of hair, which is an important cost to factor in when choosing this method.
Hair quality over time
We use hair exclusively from the London Hair Lab, and one of the biggest advantages of investing in high quality hair is that it genuinely maintains its look and feel throughout the wear time. You should not notice a significant difference between how your hair looks. As with anything, good aftercare will always help.
When to pause, condition, or change method
At every maintenance appointment we will always take the time to properly assess your natural hair. It's a great time to see if your hair has changed, whether that is due to a shift in density, a lifestyle change, or simply wanting to try a different method which is suited to your hair type.
“A great example of changing methods is from my mum. Over the years, her hair has changed in texture and density and has become quite flyaway. She’s tried different methods like rings and tapes, but even the most discreet options would still show slightly. With micro bonds, because they’re smaller and more subtle, she can have more hair added overall. While she could wear rings, it would only ever be a small amount, limiting the result. With micro bonds, she can achieve much more length and volume while keeping everything looking natural”.
Brodie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
What successful long-term micro bond clients look like
The clients who get the best results over the long term tend to have a few things in common. They come back within their wear time, and they invest in the right aftercare products. It is also worth knowing that as your natural hair grows and strengthens over time, you may find you need less extensions fitted to achieve the same result, which is a lovely position to be in. Long-term micro bond clients who look after their hair properly can genuinely wear extensions year after year and see noticeable results with the natural hair growing.
Hair Health and Safety
Do micro bonds cause damage?
“The key is in the application. The extensions need to be evenly distributed and matched to what your natural hair can safely support. When that balance is right, there is no excessive tension on the hair, which is what typically leads to putting your own hair at risk with any method.
I had a client once who was initially worried about damage because her hair was quite fine and had already been through a lot of heat styling. We took a very minimal approach with her micro bonds, focusing more on adding subtle volume rather than overloading her hair. Over time, with regular maintenance and good aftercare, her natural hair actually became stronger and healthier, as it was less exposed to daily heat and over styling.
Where issues can happen is usually down to a few factors. Poor application, adding too much hair, skipping maintenance appointments, or not following aftercare properly. Leaving the bonds in for too long without refitting can also cause tension as they grow down, which is why regular appointments are important.
It is also worth noting that removing them incorrectly or trying to take them out at home can lead to unnecessary breakage. Professional removal is always the safest option.”
Jade Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
The role of keratin:
“Keratin is what makes micro bonds work so well. The bond itself is made from keratin, which is the same protein your natural hair is made of. That is why it is able to hold securely while still feeling flexible and natural.”
Jade Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Heat during application - is it a risk?
“Heat is used, but in a very controlled way. It is not like using straighteners or tongs directly on your hair. The heat is applied to the keratin bond, not your natural hair, and it is only used briefly to soften and shape the bond into place.
I had a client once who was really nervous about the heat side of things because her hair was already quite fragile. We kept everything very controlled and minimal, and she was surprised at how gentle the process actually felt. Her hair stayed in great condition throughout.”
Jade Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Warning signs to watch for between appointments:
“There are a few things I always tell clients to keep an eye on. If the bonds start to feel tight or uncomfortable, if you notice tangling at the root that is not brushing out easily, or if any bonds feel like they are slipping or sitting too low, those are all signs to get them checked.”
“I had a client once who left it a bit too long between appointments and started to notice some matting at the root. We managed to sort it, but catching those signs early makes a big difference.”
Kalela Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
What happens if bonds are left in too long:
“As your natural hair grows, the bonds move down with it. If they are left in too long, they can start to put uneven tension on the hair because they are no longer sitting in the correct position. This can lead to tangling, matting, and in some cases unnecessary strain on the natural hair. Regular maintenance keeps everything balanced and prevents those issues before they start.”
Kalela Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
How removal works and why home removal is dangerous:
“Removal is a professional process. A solution is used to break down the keratin bond, and then it is gently compressed so it slides away from the natural hair without pulling. When done properly, it is very controlled and does not cause any issues.”
“Trying to remove them at home is where problems happen. Pulling, picking, or using the wrong products can cause breakage because you are forcing the bond out rather than dissolving it safely.”
“I have had clients come in after trying to remove a few themselves, and you can always see the difference in those sections. It is just not worth the risk.”
Kalela Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. using the wrong tools
Using the right hairbrush is an important part of your extension aftercare routine. The wrong brush can cause unnecessary tension, tugging and breakage.
“A mistake I see a lot is using the wrong hairbrush. I had a client who was using a wide-tooth comb which isn’t the best option for hair extensions. We recommend using a tangle teezeer and to start brushing from the mid-lengths of your hair”
Zoe, Senior Extensions Stylist
2. Overdue refit appointments
It's important to adhere to the wear time of your chosen method to ensure the health and integrity of your natural hair is maintained and your extensions continue to look their best
“Another mistake I see is overdue refit appointments. We advise every 3 months, but I think because micro bonds are such a secure method, some clients think you can keep them in longer. I had a client who kept them in for too long, and there was not enough support around the connection because of natural shedding. It's important to come in for your maintenance appointment on time.”
Zoe, Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
3. using the wrong shampoo
It’s always worth investing in the right products to use when wearing hair extensions, a salon quality shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type and extension method.
“Using the wrong type of shampoo is another mistake I sometimes see. I had a client who used too much hydrating shampoo, which caused some fall outs. We chatted about it at her next appointments, and we reviewed the products she was using. I recommend a different shampoo, the Colour Wow Colour Security Shampoo, and she noticed such a difference.”
Zoe Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
4. using heavy conditioners / oils near the bond area
As well as using the correct products how you use them is also important, we always recommend only using conditioner and oils on the mid lengths and ends of your hair, avoiding the connection area.
“It's really important to make sure you aren't putting any oils or conditioner on the roots when you have micro bonds. I had a client who came back in for her maintenance appointment and had a few fallouts. We spoke about her at-home care, and she'd carried on using rosemary oil on her roots after getting extensions, which had caused the slippage, I advised her to only use hair oil on the mid lengths and ends of her hair and she had no issues with fall outs with her next set of extensions”
Laleta Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
5. styling technique
The way you style your extensions matters just as much as the products you use, always work with the hair gently, keep heat tools on a lower setting and never apply direct heat to the attachment points to ensure they stay intact and looking flawless. Apply heat protectant spray before you do any heat styling and opt for low styles such as low buns and plaits, so you don’t overdirect the extensions.
“Overdirecting the hair is a common issue, I had a client who kept wearing her hair in high ponytails and buns, which can pull at the root area, so I advised her to wear her hair in low styles, below the crown which are safe styles when you have hair extensions.”
Zoe Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
Who Micro Bonds Work Best For
The following profiles represent clients who tend to get the most consistent, satisfying results.
“A great example is Charlotte. Her hair is very healthy and silky, but because of that texture, other methods could slip more easily. With micro bonds, she doesn’t even feel like she has extensions in, and because they’re so discreet, we’ve been able to add both length and volume seamlessly.”
Brodie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
“I always tailor the application to suit each client’s hair type, lifestyle, and desired result. For example, I once worked with a client who had very fine hair and had always struggled to achieve volume without visible extensions. Micro bonds were the perfect solution for her because of how discreet they are. By carefully placing lighter, smaller bonds, we were able to create fullness without compromising the natural look of her hair, and she felt so much more confident afterwards.”
Rosie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
“Another client came to me wanting added length but was worried about damage due to previous bad experiences with extensions. After a full consultation, I recommended micro bonds because they are gentle and evenly distributed across the hair. With proper application and guidance on aftercare, she was able to achieve the long, flowing hair she wanted while keeping her natural hair in great condition.”
Rosie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
“For me, micro bonds are all about creating a completely personalised result that not only looks beautiful but also feels comfortable and manageable for everyday life.”
Rosie Senior Hair Extensions Specialist
FAQs
How long do micro bond hair extensions last?
Micro bond extensions have a wear time of around 3 months. After this point we recommend coming in for a removal and a new set of extensions fitted.
Do micro bond extensions damage your hair?
When applied, maintained, and removed correctly by a trained specialist, micro bonds should not damage your natural hair. The key is making sure you come back within your wear time, use the right aftercare products, and have them removed professionally rather than attempting to take them out at home.
Can you wash your hair normally with micro bond extensions?
Yes, you can wash your hair regularly. We recommend using salon quality shampoo and conditioners. Always dry the bonds thoroughly after washing rather than leaving them damp for extended periods and avoid applying conditioner or oils directly onto the bonds themselves.
How are micro bonds different from micro rings?
Both are individually placed methods that give a very similar result in terms of length, volume, and styling flexibility. The key difference is in the attachment, micro bonds use a small keratin tip that is melted onto the natural hair using heat, while micro rings use a tiny metal ring that is clamped into place with no heat or adhesive involved.
One thing worth knowing is that micro bond extensions require new hair at every refit, as the keratin tip is a one-use attachment. Micro rings, on the other hand, allow the hair to be reused at each appointment, which can make them a more cost-effective option over time.
How many micro bond extensions do you need for a full head?
This varies depending on your natural hair density and the result you are looking for. A full head typically ranges between 120-160 strands, but the exact number will always be determined during your consultation once we have assessed your hair in person.
Can you use heat styling tools with micro bond extensions?
Yes, you can use straighteners and curlers as normal. The important thing is to avoid applying direct heat to the bond itself, as this can soften the keratin and cause it to loosen. Always start a few centimetres below the attachment point and use a good heat protectant on the mid lengths each time you style.
Are micro bonds suitable for very fine hair?
Micro bonds are one of the best methods for finer hair types. The small keratin tip sits flush against fine hair and virtually disappears, giving an incredibly natural and seamless finish. If anything, clients with very fine hair often get the best results with bonds compared to other methods.
Can you swim with micro bond extensions?
You can swim with micro bond extensions, but it is worth taking a few precautions. Both chlorine and salt water can dry out and weaken the keratin bond with repeated exposure, so we recommend tying your hair into a loose low ponytail when swimming where possible and rinsing thoroughly straight afterwards.
Why do micro bonds need new hair at each refit?
The keratin tip is a one-use attachment. During the removal process the bond has to be fully broken down in order to release it safely from the natural hair, which means it cannot be reattached. Unlike micro rings, where the hair can be reused, every micro bond refit requires a fresh set of hair. This is an important cost to factor in when choosing this method.
Can you tie your hair up with micro bond extensions?
Yes, but we recommend keeping styles low. Low ponytails, low buns, and loose updos all work well with micro bonds, as the individually placed bonds sit close to the scalp and are easy to conceal. We would not recommend high or very tight styles, as these can put tension on the bonds and make the attachment points more visible.
How long does a micro bond fitting take?
A full head of micro bonds typically takes anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on the number of bonds being applied and your natural hair. It is not a quick appointment, so we always recommend setting aside a good chunk of the day. If you are looking for a faster option, tape extensions can often be applied in under an hour.
What happens if micro bond extensions are left in too long?
As the natural hair grows, the bonds move further down the hair shaft and begin to sit away from the root. Left too long, this can lead to matting and tangling around the bond, which can make safe removal much more difficult. We always recommend coming back within the 3-month wear time to avoid this. The longer bonds are left in beyond their recommended wear time, the more work is involved in removing them safely.
