Are you considering hair extensions to enhance your natural hair? If so, you’re not alone. Many individuals seek NBR hair extensions for a variety of reasons, from adding volume to changing their hairstyle without committing to a specific look. Natural Beaded Rows (NBR) is an innovative hair extension method that’s gaining popularity for its natural-looking results and minimal damage to your natural hair.
Created by Danielle K. White of DKW Styling, NBR extensions stand out from other methods like tape-ins, clip-ins, and traditional sew-ins due to their unique installation technique. Before making the investment, it’s essential to understand the process, including the consultation with a stylist, the installation experience, and the maintenance requirements.
Understanding NBR Extensions
NBR hair extensions, developed by Danielle K. White, offer a revolutionary approach to hair enhancement. Natural Beaded Rows (NBR) is an exclusive hair extension method that has gained popularity for its minimal damage and natural look.
What Are Natural Beaded Rows?
Natural Beaded Rows are made from 100% human Indian Remy hair, custom-colored to match your natural hair for a seamless blend. This method was developed as a solution to the damage caused by traditional extension methods.
Origin and Development
Danielle K. White of DKW Styling created NBR extensions after trying various extension methods, seeking a technique that would provide fullness without sacrificing hair health.
100% Human Remy Hair
The use of 100% human Remy hair ensures that the extensions can be colored and styled like your natural hair, offering versatility and a natural look.
How NBR Extensions Are Installed
The installation involves creating a “track” using an exclusive bead and string technique. Wefts are then placed on this track and sewn in, providing a secure yet gentle attachment.
The Bead and String Technique
This technique allows for a comfortable and durable application, minimizing damage to your natural hair.
Installation Process and Time
A full NBR application typically takes 2-3 hours, including color, cut, and styling, making it an efficient method for hair enhancement.
The extensions are then cut and blended with your natural hair to create a seamless, natural-looking result. Most clients receive one or two rows depending on their hair thickness and desired volume.
Pros of NBR Extensions
The advantages of NBR hair extensions are numerous, making them a preferred choice for many seeking to enhance their hair. With their natural appearance and versatility, it’s no wonder they have gained popularity among those looking for a long-term hair solution.
Natural-Looking Results
NBR extensions are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural hair. This is achieved through:
Seamless Blending
The halo formation placement technique used in NBR extensions creates a more natural look compared to the horizontal weft placement used in other methods. This allows for a more organic integration with your natural hair.
Custom Color Matching
Stylists can color the extensions to perfectly match or complement your natural hair color, ensuring a flawless blend.
Versatile Styling Options
NBR extensions offer the versatility you need for various styles. You can enjoy:
Ponytails and Updos
Unlike many other extension types, NBR extensions allow for high ponytails, updos, and various styles without revealing the attachment points.
Heat Styling Capabilities
NBR extensions hold styling better than natural hair, with curls and waves lasting for days. This reduces your daily styling time.
Less Damage to Natural Hair
The NBR method minimizes damage to your natural hair. This is due to:
Fewer Attachment Points
NBR uses rows rather than individual attachment points, distributing the weight more evenly and reducing strain on your natural hair.
No Glue or Tape
The bead and string technique avoids the use of harsh adhesives, heat, or chemicals that can damage your natural hair.
| Benefits | NBR Extensions | Other Extension Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Appearance | Excellent | Variable |
| Styling Versatility | High | Limited |
| Damage to Natural Hair | Minimal | Significant |
Cons of NBR Extensions
While NBR extensions offer numerous benefits, they also come with some significant drawbacks that you should consider. The biggest cons of NBR hair extensions are the cost, maintenance, and upkeep. It’s a commitment to continue to go to the salon every 6-8 weeks and have the extensions adjusted, which gets costly, as well as maintaining them at home on a daily basis to have the best experience with them.
Financial Investment
The cost of NBR extensions is a significant factor to consider. The initial installation can range from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the stylist and salon.
Initial Cost
The initial cost includes the application of the extensions, and it may or may not include color, cut, or styling services.
Maintenance Expenses
Regular maintenance appointments, known as move-up appointments, are necessary every 6-8 weeks, costing $250 or more, depending on the salon.
Time Commitment
NBR extensions require a significant time commitment. The initial installation appointment can take 2-3 hours.
Installation Sessions
The initial application process is time-consuming, requiring a full day or more at the salon.
Move-Up Appointments
Regular move-up appointments are necessary to maintain the health and appearance of your hair extensions.
Daily Care Requirements
Caring for NBR extensions involves an extended washing routine and the use of special products.
Extended Washing Routine
Washing, drying, and styling your hair with extensions takes longer than without them. For instance, washing and styling can take about 1.5 hours.
Special Product Needs
You will need to use sulfate-free shampoos, leave-in conditioners, and heat protectants, which add to the overall cost of maintaining your NBR hair extensions.
| Aspect | Description | Cost/Time |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Installation | Application of NBR extensions | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Move-Up Appointments | Regular maintenance every 6-8 weeks | $250+ |
| Daily Care | Extended washing and styling routine | 1.5 hours |
Caring for Your NBR Hair Extensions
Maintaining your NBR hair extensions is crucial for their longevity and natural appearance. Proper care ensures that your extensions remain healthy-looking and blend well with your natural hair.
Washing and Drying Techniques
To wash your NBR hair extensions, start by brushing them out with a Wet Brush before showering to prevent tangles and matting. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, gently shampooing between the rows.
Proper Brushing Before Showering
Brushing your extensions before showering is essential to prevent tangling. Use a Wet Brush to gently detangle, starting from the ends and working your way up.
Sulfate-Free Products
Using sulfate-free products helps maintain the health and integrity of your hair and extensions.
Styling Best Practices
When styling your NBR hair extensions, it’s essential to use heat protection to prevent damage. Use a round brush with light tension during the last few minutes of blow-drying to smooth out your hair and extensions.
Heat Protection
Always apply a heat protectant before using heat styling tools to safeguard your extensions and natural hair.
Curling and Straightening Tips
For curling, run the extensions through the curling iron once or twice to smooth the hair before placing the curls. This helps achieve a more polished look and prolongs the life of the extension hair.
Nighttime Care and Maintenance
Before bed, brush out your NBR hair extensions and secure them in a loose ponytail or braids to prevent tangling and matting. Never sleep with wet hair to avoid matting.
Sleeping With Extensions
Use a slip hair tie to secure your extensions in a loose ponytail or braids, minimizing friction and preventing damage.
Preventing Tangles and Matting
Brushing your extensions regularly and keeping them dry before bedtime are key to preventing tangles and matting.
| Care Activity | Recommended Product/Technique | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Washing | Sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner | As needed |
| Drying | Round brush with light tension | After washing |
| Styling | Heat protectant | Before heat styling |
| Nighttime Care | Loose ponytail or braids with slip hair tie | Daily |
Is NBR Right for You?
Considering NBR hair extensions? These semi-permanent hair solutions offer added volume and length, but are they the right choice for your hair needs and lifestyle? To determine this, let’s examine the key factors.
You’re an ideal candidate for NBR extensions if you have fine or thin hair seeking volume, want added length, or are looking for a semi-permanent solution. The number of rows you need depends on your natural hair thickness, desired volume, and current hair length. For instance, those with shorter hair may require two rows for a seamless blend, while individuals with longer, finer hair might find one row sufficient.
Finding a qualified NBR stylist is crucial. Ensure they are specifically trained in the Natural Beaded Rows method. During your consultation, ask about cost breakdowns, maintenance schedules, and what to expect during installation. Understanding the maintenance requirements and realistic expectations for the lifespan of your NBR extensions (typically 6-8 weeks before adjustments and 12 months before replacement) is vital.
Ultimately, whether NBR hair extensions are right for you depends on your individual priorities, budget, and hair goals. While they require investment and commitment, many find the natural-looking results and versatility worth the effort. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering your lifestyle and styling preferences, to make an informed decision.
