CLICK HERE to shop this outfit
Long story, short: I have been trying to grow out my hair for YEARS. I’m serious! I feel like my hair has hit it’s limit and just won’t budge. After lusting over long, gorgeous, thick hair for years, I decided it was time to take the initiative to get this dream hair I always aspired to have! I spent hours, weeks, and even the last few months doing SO MUCH RESEARCH to try and find out the least damaging, most comfortable, and realistic version of hair extensions possible. That’s when I reached out to (the sweetest + oh so talented) Chelsea in Arizona**. You know I frequent Arizona because my boyfriend lives there, so this trip I decided to go for it- to get HAIR EXTENSIONS!
**UPDATE: I’ve switched hair stylists, as I’ve decided to stay local in Santa Barbara, and my go-to hair guru, magical extension expert, is Bess (@hairbybess on Instagram). Be sure you reach out to her and tell her I sent you- trust me, she’s AMAZING!
**I just published a blog post on the pros + cons of ALL METHODS of hair extensions!
BEFORE // AFTER
Listen up: these aren’t just any hair extensions, they are Natural Beaded Row (NBR) Exentions! It’s a special method with so many benefits that I’ll be sharing below as well as answering all of your questions you asked via Instagram!
What is NBR?
- NBR stands for Natural Beaded Row extensions. They are an exclusive hair extension method where rows are placed in the hair by creating a “track” with an exclusive bead and string technique. Wefts are then placed on the track and sewn in. The extensions are then cut, colored, and blended to your real hair to create a natural and beautiful look!
What are the benefits of NBR compared to tape-in extensions, glue-in extensions, and other methods?
- Natural looking
- Lightweight yet full
- Comfortable
- No glue or tape involved
- Less damage
- Hidden
- Won’t slip out
- Your natural hair can still grow!
What kind of hair is it?
- It is 100% human Bohyme Lux extension hair.
What length did you get?
- I was deciding between the 18″ length and the 22″ length, but ultimately went with the 18″. I did not want to be overwhelmed with hair at first, and I’m loving this length.
How many rows did you get placed in your head?
- I got 2 rows of 6 wefts, so 12 total. Keep in mind, typical extensions have 150 points of contact on your head, NBR has a maximum of 25 points of contact.
How do you know who to go to to get NBR extensions?
- I highly recommend contacting a Certified NBR Stylist by going to the list of hair stylists in your area HERE.
Do the extensions feel like real hair (texturally)?
- YES! I am shocked at how real it feels. I cannot tell the difference between my original real hair and the extension hair, it’s crazy!
Was the application painful?
- Not at all- it was a little tight but I wouldn’t say it was uncomfortable!
Are they itchy?
- I’ve only had my NBR extensions in for about 3 days now, and so far I’ve had minimal itching. I know that’ll go away as time goes on in the next day or so.
Does your real hair blend with the extension hair?
- YES!!! It’s insane how well it blends. Your stylist will be able to strategically do this!
What shampoo + conditioner do you use on your extensions?
- I’ll use my regular shampoo + conditioner, as well as occasional purple shampoo to keep the cool tones in my blonde. My hair stylist also recommended I use this oil-based product to protect my long locks!
Can you style them like you would your normal hair?
- 100%! They are meant to be treated like your real hair. Blow dry, straighten, curl, etc. Remember- it’s real hair so treat it like that!
How often do you have to maintain them?
- About every 6-8 weeks I’ll have to get my rows of hair moved up since there is natural hair growth, and then about every 6 months is when I’ll repurchase brand new hair to keep it fresh! I think this recommended timing also depends on your natural hair growth and how well you treat your hair!
How much do these extensions cost?
- I’ll start out by saying it’s definitely an investment, but an investment I was willing to go for and I’m SO happy I did! Stylist pricing will vary, depending on their experience, however keep in mind that the initial appointment will be the most expensive around $1,000+ (due to the cost of hair, color, cut, and styling). After your initial appointment, it will not cost that much each time after! You have to be dedicated!
Worth it!?
- 10000% YES! I couldn’t be happier with the mermaid hair of my dreams 🙂
- HUGE shout out to Chelsea for her sweet personality, extreme talent and attention to detail, and for making my wildest hair dream come true!
If you have any other questions, please comment below and I’ll be sure to answer! Also- if you decide to get NBR extensions, tag me in a photo on Instagram, I’d LOVE to see 🙂
Tina ( sassi hair Adelaide SouthAustralia) says
I am a hairdresser with my own business could I please have a price list
Gina Cossey says
Hi, were the 6 wefts heavy? Did it cause any breakage?
Torey Beerman says
Hi Gina!! Not at all- super comfortable, non-damaging, and highly recommend 😉
Brook says
Hi! I have an upcoming appt for NBR extensions and I will pay $1400. This includes 2 rows, cut color and placement. My question is…how much do I tip the stylist? Do I tip on the $1400 or just the actual service cost? What did you do? I’m really stressing out about what is the appropriate tip!! Thank you and love your hair!!
Torey Beerman says
Hey!! Oh my gosh I’m sooo excited for you! I’d just tip on the cut color and not the actual hair, that’s just a set price. I hope that helps! 🙂 CAN’T WAIT TO SEE! Tag me on IG!
Brandy says
I just had that problem!! My appointment was 2250 for 22 inch hair and I straight up asked her how much and she said to only tip on the installation and bleaching so I tipped 150. It was a little over 20%
Brooke says
I got NBR at the end of Halloween and probably ltnwhll never go back! Did your stylist recommend sleeping in a braid? I wake up with a wave at the bottom that kind of bugs. Also, how often have you been washing your hair? I run so that’s been tricky. I’ve kind of gotten the hand of just washing the top.
Torey Beerman says
Hey Brooke! I LOVE NBR- yes, I sleep with it in a loose braid to avoid tangling. Also- I wash it about once a week and use a lot of dry shampoo. I also work out a lot and it’s fine if I only wash it once a week. When I work out, I’ve found it’s best to put it in a low pony! 🙂
Mary says
Trying to find out where & how much just to purchase the Natural Beaded Rows like the brand Maq row or your NBR brand wholesale?
As in for other salons or those licensed ?
Your help will be greatly appreciated!
Much respect,
L
Torey Beerman says
Hey, the brand that I’ve used for my extensions is Boheme and/or Bombshell… Hope that helps!
Kesha says
I’m about to have Boheme Luxe extensions put in and i can’t wait. My hair is naturally pretty wavy and my stylist suggested i get the body wave texture. Ive always wanted straight hair though so I’m not sure if I should go with the straight texture or the body wave. Your hair is beautiful, what texture did you get?
Torey Beerman says
Kesha, thank you so much!! I’m SO excited for you, let me know how it goes!! I’m not sure what texture I got, I’m pretty sure it’s the wave since that’s what my natural hair is like. 🙂
Anna Ortiz says
Did you notice any strand loss after washing your hair, and/or brushing within the first week?
Torey Beerman says
Hey Anna! I noticed typical/normal hair loss when brushing. Nothing out of the norm though! Hope that helps! XO
Beate says
I’m just starting to do some research on all this as I have fine hair and would love my hair to look fuller and healthier. How can I find a Certified NBR Stylist in my area? I’m on Maui, Hawaii the direct link you have listed doesn’t seem to take you to a page. Thanks for any leads…
Torey Beerman says
Hey there! I recommend checking out the NBR (Natural Beaded Row) extension website to get started on becoming a stylist! Good luck!
Christie says
I have extremely oily hair and I have to wash my hair everyday. Will that be a problem with extensions?
Torey Beerman says
Christie- shouldn’t be a problem! You should be good 🙂 Ask your hairstylist!
Cynthia says
Hi! I also got NBR Extensions and I love them! I’m on my second week now, but I’m just wondering, is it normal to have the extensions grown out and not as tight anymore only on my second week?
Torey Beerman says
Cynthia, that sounds normal! That just means your hair is growing, but don’t worry- the extensions will stay in 🙂 enjoy!
Jasmine says
hey! have you gotten them moved up/noticed any damage from the process?
Torey Beerman says
Jasmine, yes I’ve gotten them moved up every 10 weeks! I haven’t noticed any damage, in fact my hair is still growing 🙂 highly recommend!
Tiffany apgar says
I have my appt next month to get my NBR extensions installed. I have heard “legends” that once you have extensions, you can never go without again because of the damage once removed for good. Have you found anything that addresses that in your research of this particular method?
Torey Beerman says
TIFFANY, so exciting!! I absolutely love my extensions and I’m getting them again tomorrow- can’t wait! I highly recommend them and actually haven’t noticed any damage from taking them in/out and it’s been over a year that I’ve had them! You’ll LOVE them 🙂 let me know how it goes!!
Kristene Canady says
I have been wearing NBR for almost a year now. I have had to purchase new hair twice already and this Friday will be purchasing my THIRD head of new hair, ughhhh, I find the cost to be all over the board…I am in Kansas and it’s about $1200 here “all in” for 2 rows plus a “mini”…about 16 wefts in all. I travel a lot for work and see the cost much lower on the west coast…under $1000. What is the price range you see? Also, the move ups are anywhere from $200-$275 plus the cost for any color/high light service…is that what you experience as well? Thank you in advance!! KC
Torey Beerman says
Hey Kristene, sorry for your frustrations! I am currently on the same set of hair and it’s been 7 (almost 8) months! In terms of cost, it does seem like California is cheaper than what you’re mentioning. Maybe on one of your travels you can see my girl @hairbybess (on instagram look her up!)… she’s the best!
Ashley Clinton says
Hi Kristine what you need to do is go to alibaba.com and search for hand tied extensions. There are many people selling them directly from Asia. You can order a color ring so you know exactly what color or combination of colors to order. You are buying directly from the source and cutting the middleman out so your cost will be around 200 dollars. You simply need to find someone to do the install. Tell them you have your own hair and you just need to hire them for the labor. It will save you an absolute fortune. They are ripping you off sooooo bad for the cost of your hair. Best wishes.
Torey Beerman says
Ashley- this is a GREAT TIP! Thank you for sharing 🙂
Jenn says
Hello!
I have been wearing NBR since last February and I’ve only had this happen one other time, and it went away on its own. So I had my stylist take my extensions out a week early
Bc I was getting scalp sores, I’m thinking from my high pony tails.
I got a new set of extensions installed last Thursday and my scalp is already sore where the row starts in the front. Any suggestions on pain relievers, creams or oils I can apply that will help with healing and/or soothing it?
Torey Beerman says
Jenn, I typically only have a sore head for 2 days after getting the extensions put in just from tension and pulling! I take Advil, otherwise, it goes away after that! It probably varies person to person based on how sensitive each individual is. I’m sorry! I hope it’s worth it! XO
KT says
Hey Torey? Can you put your hair up in a ponytail?
Torey Beerman says
KT, absolutely!! I do it all the time for my workouts 🙂
Shelly says
Hi Torey.
I recently just took out my NBR with only having them in for 10 days. I had 2 rows installed. It was an excessive amount of hair. It was so thick that my pony rubberband would only go on once. I couldn’t style not manageable at all. It literally was the size of a elephant trunk. I wasted 1,400 and also was getting head sores, the worst part when I had them removed my own hair was apparently thinned out and very thin on the bottom 4 inches of my hair, so I had to cut to look even. I do have thick hair and wanted it for the length. So disappointed system sounded so good:(
Torey Beerman says
Hey Shelly, oh my goodness I’m so sorry! That sounds crazy! I have never experienced that before and I’m sorry you did. Hope your hair comes back healthy and you’re happy!
Tanaia Berden says
I had my nbr extensions in for 7 weeks ..first time getting them , I had issues from the start with the middle to ends being very dry! I followed all the advice & rules per say on how to care for my extensions & no matter what I did the extensions continued to be dry. They only looked good if I curled them ..yet they still felt dry just didn’t look as dry . Also the worst part is after I removed them ..I lost literally 1/2 the volume of hair I had before extensions! I lost length but I lost like a ton of hair ! I’m devastated! I was loosing hair when I would loose hair when I would wash it ..which was only 2x per week . But it looked like extension hair …but it must have been my hair too 🙁
I have very thin fine hair to begin with . I consulted with the salon along this whole process & they had no answer to the dryness & said my own hair should not be affected when I see the weft hair ( extension s) coming out .
Do you have any insight as to why this would happen ?
1. The dryness
2. My hair loss
I used recommended types of shampoo & conditioners-I used leave in conditioner-used recommended oil – rough dried hair first -no curling iron temps above 350 degrees- used wet brush .etc.
Please help !
Torey Beerman says
Hey Tanaia, great question! the extensions tend to get dry because they are real hair. I recommend using oily daily and nightly and ensure that you use a hair mask like Olaplex no. 3 weekly! That’ll also help 🙂
Yocheved says
Hi! I’m looking to get them done in Houston Texas and I was told it would cost $2200 for 2 rows of 18” hair including color cut and styling. And each move up and color touch up is over $300. Does this sound outrageous to you? Thanks!!
Torey Beerman says
Hi there! The original price sounds very outrageous to me! I can’t believe that! Your maintenance appointments sound right though.
Melissa says
Here in Colorado Springs it is $2400 for what you described. Crazy!
Torey Beerman says
Hi Melissa! Oh my gosh I guess prices vary everywhere. That’s crazy!
Cheryl says
My stylist is charging $1900 for the 18 inch extensions. Including cut and color plus, a care package. $420 for move ups in 8 weeks. Never had them done but, just seems to be a lot
Torey Beerman says
That initial price seems like a lot to me! I’d ask around to see if you can find a better deal or purchase the hair separately on your own and then go to her!
SYdney says
My extensions are leaving red bumps at the front my scalp, my stylist said that she will loosen them, is that normal?
Torey Beerman says
Never had that happen to me! I’d get them taken out maybe…
Levi Armstrong says
It’s great that you mentioned that natural beaded rows extensions are much better than their counterparts because they look natural and are more comfortable. My sister plans to get hair extensions for her civil wedding ceremony this February. I’ll suggest she gets NBR extensions from a reputable salon to look her best during her wedding. Thanks.