Studio 18 Salon in Gilbert, AZ installs three types of hair extensions: hand-tied wefts, K-tip (keratin tip), and tape-in. Each method has different install times, maintenance schedules, and price points. Installs start at $300; consultations are free. Book at Vagaro.
The three extension methods we offer
Hand-tied wefts (the gentle one)
Hand-tied wefts are sewn into a tiny braid against your scalp. No heat, no glue, no chemicals on your existing hair. They're the most natural-looking method and the gentlest on your hair, which is why most of our long-term extension clients stay on hand-tied.
- Install time: 3-5 hours
- Maintenance: Move-up every 6-10 weeks
- Hair life: 8-12 months with care
- Best for: Anyone wanting natural-looking length or volume with minimal stress on the hair
K-Tip extensions (the durable one)
K-Tip (also called I-Tip with keratin bond) uses a small keratin bead at the top of each extension strand. The keratin melts briefly during install to create a small bond, then hardens. K-Tip extensions are individually placed — meaning we can put dimension exactly where you want it, including the front sides where wefts don't always work.
- Install time: 2-4 hours
- Maintenance: Remove and re-install every 3-4 months
- Hair life: 6-9 months with care
- Best for: Clients who want versatility, the ability to put extensions in specific spots, and don't mind the longer initial commitment
Tape-in extensions (the fast one)
Tape-in extensions use a medical-grade adhesive to attach pre-taped extension panels to your hair. They install fast and remove cleanly with a solvent. Tape-in is the go-to for clients who want a quick result, want to try extensions without a huge time commitment, or are doing a temporary install for an event.
- Install time: 1-2 hours
- Maintenance: Move-up every 6-8 weeks
- Hair life: 6-12 months with care
- Best for: First-time extension clients, event installs, anyone wanting a quick turnaround
Quick comparison: which extensions are right for you?
| If you want... | Pick this method |
|---|---|
| The most natural look with longest hair life | Hand-tied wefts |
| Maximum versatility and placement control | K-Tip |
| Fastest install + easiest to try | Tape-in |
| The gentlest on your hair | Hand-tied wefts |
| The best for fine hair | Tape-in or hand-tied |
| The best for thick hair | Hand-tied wefts or K-Tip |
Pricing for hair extensions in Gilbert
- Free consultation — required before all installs
- K-Tip Install — Starting at $300
- Full Tape-In Install — Starting at $300
- Hand-tied Install — Quote-based at consultation
- 1 Row Mini Move Up — $75
- 1 Row Full Move Up — $150
- 2 Row Mini Move Up — Starting at $140
- 2 Row Full Move Up — Starting at $250
Pricing scales with hair amount and density. Some clients need one row; others need two. We'll quote you specifically at your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
How much do hair extensions cost at Studio 18?
Extension installs start around $300 depending on method and hair amount. Hand-tied installs are quote-based — we consult before installing to match length, color, and density to your hair. Move-up appointments (re-tightening after 8-10 weeks) start at $75 for a single-row mini move-up and run up to $250 for a full two-row move-up.
How long do hair extensions last?
The hair itself can last 6-12 months with proper care, depending on the method. You'll need maintenance appointments every 6-10 weeks for move-ups (re-tightening the rows so they stay flush against the scalp). Hand-tied wefts typically get the longest life because they don't use heat or glue.
Will hair extensions damage my hair?
Not when installed correctly. Damage comes from improper install, over-tightening, or skipping move-ups. Hand-tied extensions are the gentlest method because they're sewn into a tiny braid, not glued or heated to your hair. K-Tip uses keratin bonds that melt and harden — they're durable but require careful removal. Tape-In uses medical-grade adhesive — quick to install, gentle to remove.
How long does an extension install take?
Plan for 3-5 hours for a first install, depending on method and amount of hair. Hand-tied is usually the longest (more hand work). K-Tip is somewhere in the middle. Tape-In is the fastest — sometimes under 2 hours. Move-up appointments are 60-90 minutes.
Can I sleep, swim, and work out with extensions?
Yes to all three. The methods we offer at Studio 18 are designed for daily life. We give every extension client a take-home care guide covering how to brush around the bonds, wash without disturbing the install, and protect the hair from chlorine and salt water.
How often do I need to come in for maintenance?
Move-ups every 6-10 weeks depending on how fast your hair grows. Some clients stretch to 12 weeks if their growth is slower. Coming in on schedule is what protects the integrity of your hair AND keeps the install looking flush and natural.
Can I color my hair while wearing extensions?
We don't recommend coloring on top of installed extensions because the chemicals can interact with the bonds, especially K-Tip. The right approach is to color your hair first, then install extensions in the matching tone. We can plan a color appointment before the extension install — it's a common workflow.
How do I book a hair extension consultation?
Book a free extension consultation at https://www.vagaro.com/zynergysalon. The consult is where we look at your hair, talk through your goals, and recommend a method. Bring photos of looks you like. The consult is free and doesn't commit you to booking an install.
Book a free extensions consultation in Gilbert
The first step is a consultation. It's free, it's no-commitment, and it's the only way to give you an honest recommendation on method and pricing.
Book your consultation on Vagaro →
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