Choosing the Right Install: Tape-Ins vs Microlinks vs K-Tips vs Sew-Ins

Choosing the Right Install: Tape-Ins vs Microlinks vs K-Tips vs Sew-Ins

There’s No One-Size-Fits-All — and That’s a Good Thing

With so many extension methods available in Lagos now, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Do you choose tape-ins? What about microlinks? Or are K-Tips worth the hype?

At Hello Texture, we help clients make the right decision based on their hair health, lifestyle, texture, and goals — not just what’s trending.

Here’s a breakdown of each method we offer, including who it’s for, how long it lasts, and how it affects your hair.

 1. Tape-Ins: Lightweight + Seamless

What it is: Flat wefts of hair “sandwiched” around your natural strands using medical-grade adhesive.

Best for:
✔️ Clients with fine to medium natural or relaxed hair
✔️ Anyone who wants quick installs with little tension
✔️ Short-term wear for events or vacations
✔️ First-time extension users

Pros:

  • Quick install

  • Blends easily

  • Flat and ponytail-friendly

  • Reusable hair

  • Easy to remove in-salon

Considerations:

  • Requires daily maintenance (brushing, separation)

  • Not ideal for very oily scalps

  • May need mid-cycle check-ins if you sweat frequently

2. Microlinks: Flexible + Full

What it is: Bundles or strands attached using tiny silicone-lined beads — no braids, thread, or glue.

Best for:
✔️ Clients with medium to thick natural hair
✔️ Long-term wearers who like versatility + movement
✔️ Those who want to wear their hair out (vs completely covered)
✔️ Brides and lifestyle clients

Pros:

  • No glue, no braids

  • Long-wearing (6–10 weeks with care)

  • Great for side parts, ponytails, and half-up styles

  • Very natural-looking if well-maintained

Considerations:

  • Requires salon-level maintenance

  • Not ideal if you skip brushing or gym hair care

  • Install is longer than tape-ins

3. K-Tips (Invisible Keratin Tips): The Most Seamless Option

What it is: Individual strands bonded to your natural hair using a small keratin tip, melted with a heat tool.

Best for:
✔️ Clients with natural, coily, relaxed, or transitioning hair
✔️ Anyone looking for a super flat, long-lasting install
✔️ Those who want to blend their hair perfectly without braids or beads
✔️ High-end, low-maintenance wearers

Pros:

  • Extremely discreet

  • Longest wear time (10–16 weeks)

  • Low maintenance once installed

  • No thread or tension

  • Works on 4C hair with texture-matched extensions

Considerations:

  • Installation takes time

  • Hair needs to be properly prepped and steamed before

  • Must be removed professionally to avoid breakage

4. Sew-Ins: Classic + Protective

What it is: Hair is braided, then extensions are sewn in using thread. Can be done with leave-out or closures.

Best for:
✔️ Clients with thicker or transitioning hair
✔️ Those who want to fully tuck away their natural hair
✔️ Anyone looking for maximum protection and length retention
✔️ Budget-conscious clients

Pros:

  • Very secure

  • Long-lasting (up to 8 weeks)

  • Full coverage

  • Great for protective styling seasons

  • Cost-effective

Considerations:

  • Tension can cause breakage if not installed gently

  • Scalp access is reduced, so steaming/treatment beforehand is essential

  • Not ideal for frequent style switching

 So, Which Should You Choose?

Install Type Best For Wear Time Maintenance
Tape-Ins Fine/medium hair, events 4–6 weeks Low to moderate
Microlinks Medium/thick natural hair 6–10 weeks Moderate
K-Tips Natural or relaxed, luxury wear 10–16 weeks Low
Sew-Ins Protective styling, full coverage 6–8 weeks Low to moderate

At Hello Texture, We Guide You — Not Pressure You

We offer consultations for every install, including texture matching, scalp prep, and treatment planning. Because your extensions are only as good as the foundation beneath them.

📍 Visit Hello Texture — The Install Experts in Lagos

We’re located at 35A Adebayo Doherty Road, Lekki Phase 1, and we work with clients from Ikoyi, VI, and all over Lagos.

Whether you want to go full glam, blend seamlessly, or protect your coils — we’ll help you choose your best fit.

💬 Ready to Book or Still Deciding?

We’ve got you.

📲 WhatsApp / Chat: 09030290156
📅 Fresha Booking Link: Book Now on Fresha
📸 Instagram DM: @hellotexture_salon

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