If you’re new to extensions (or ready to upgrade), this guide’s for you.

When you’re researching extensions in the Pacific Northwest, the options can feel overwhelming. 

Hand-tied, beaded row, tape-in, K-tip… what does it all mean — and which one will actually give you your dream hair?

Let’s break it down — method by method — so you can walk into your consultation with confidence.

Beaded Row Hair Extensions (Our Favorite)

The method: Small beads are placed in clean rows and wefts are hand-sewn for a natural, secure hold.

Hand-tied hair is a type of weft that can be used in installs but we’ve upgraded to Genius wefts. They’re just as much grams per weft as hand-tied hair extensions, but with less bulk at the top of the weft. 

This allows for your extensions to be even more seamless!

Pros:

• Featherlight and easy on finer Oregon hair
  
• Custom blend = undetectable finish
  
• Healthy for your scalp and natural strands
  
• Easy to style, pull up, and maintain
  

Perfect for: Clients who want a long-term solution that’s gentle, gorgeous, and fully customizable.

Tape-In Extensions

The method: Sandwich-style application using sticky adhesive tabs.

Pros:

• Quick to install
  
• Budget-friendly to start
  
• Can be reused with proper care
  

Cons:

• More visible in thinner hair
  
• Can slip or get gummy with product build-up
  
• Not ideal for super active or outdoorsy lifestyles
  

Best for: Short-term hair goals or medium-density hair types.

K-Tip (Keratin) Extensions

The method: Keratin-tipped extensions are bonded to small pieces of your natural hair using heat.

Pros:

• Great for highly customized installations
  
• Invisible in even short haircuts
  
• No wefts = maximum flexibility
  

Cons:

• Not reusable
  
• Requires a longer install + removal process
  
• Not ideal for clients with fragile or sensitive hair/scalp
  

Best for: Precision lovers who don’t mind a longer salon visit and want their extensions to stay put for months.

Still Not Sure?

That’s what consultations are for! At NOVA STRANDS Wilsonville, we’re known for helping clients choose the method that feels right — not just trendy. And if you’re ready to experience hair that feels as good as it looks? You’re in the right place.

Wilsonville’s go-to for extensions done right:

✨ Book Your Consultation Today
✨ Browse Our Transformation Gallery
✨ Meet Your Stylist