A Black Woman’s Guide To Microlinks — The Hair Extensions That Are Definitely Worth The Hype

Clamping rings or beads near the roots of your hair while it’s at its weakest may cause breakage, shedding, and unsightly thinning throughout your hair. Additionally, make sure you wear mostly low-manipulation hairstyles that won’t cause you to tug and pull on the extensions. This will also help you avoid damage via poor styling and maintenance. 

So in short, the best way to avoid damage caused by microlinks is to simply focus on your overall hair health! If your hair isn’t strong enough for a sew in, box braids, or clip ins, then it probably isn’t strong enough for a full set of microlinks, either. 

How Often Do Microlinks Need Maintenance?

Which Is Better: Tape-In Extensions or Microlinks?

All extensions have the same goal—to add length and fullness to your hair—so it’s easy to want to compare them, especially when they have similar installation processes. One method that is often compared to microlinks is the tape-in extension. 

Tape-ins are exactly what they sound like, wide weft of hair that is secured at the top with a sticky, adhesive tab that is used to attach the extension to your hair. You simply part your hair and place the sticky weft about 1/4 inch a way from your scalp, fitting 3 or 4 wefts on one row of hair. Then, you just part a new row and repeat until you have a full head of extensions. 

As you can see, the process is just as simple as microlinking. So then, what makes one better than the other? To be honest, nothing! They are both high-quality extension methods, and which on you get really comes down to preference. So let’s explore: 

• Cost. Mictolink extensions typically run between $300 and $1000 to install, while tape-ins stay within the $200 to $700 range. This, of course, depends on the hair and stylist you choose. Better quality hair and service will likely be on the higher end. 
• Timing. Microlinks undoubtedly have the longer installation. They take 2 to 3 hours, while tape-in extensions only take an hour. These times may be a little longer if you include washing, drying, and straightening your hair. 
• Longevity. Both microlinks and tape-in extensions last between 6-8 weeks, 4-5 weeks if you plan on washing your hair on a weekly basis.
• Versatility.  Microlink and tape-in extensions are equally versatile! You can wear in a bun, ponytail, and whatever else without the extensions showing. They key difference here is that microlinks create fullness while tape-ins create volume. So if you’re looking for full, natural-looking styles, opt for microlinks. For big, sexy hair, try tape-ins.

How Much Do Microlinks Usually Cost?

How much is the stylist charging? Where are you buying hair extensions from? Do you plan on maintaining them yourself or visiting the salon for touch-ups? The cost of your microlink extensions install and maintenance depends on how you answer these questions. I mean, it genuinely makes the difference between spending $300 on your hairstyle and $1000. 

Let’s take a more in-depth look into how the cost of microlink installs may add up: 

• Purchasing the extensions. Buying microlinks is very similar to buying bundles in the sense that you buy them by the pack and the cost is typically determined by length. 2 packs are enough to give you a full head install, but you could opt for 3 packs if you’d like a fuller look. Sometimes you’ll be able to buy a full microlink kit that includes hair, replacement beads or rings, and a clamp tool for install. The average cost is $300.
• Choosing a stylist.  If you plan to learn microlinking by yourself, then that’s great! Like wigs and sew-ins, there are tons of YouTube videos and other learning materials to teach you how to install them at home, and it’s completely free!  On the other hand, if you plan to go to a stylist, know that the prices will vary. Some stylists may charge as little as $100 while others are aiming for $1000. Don’t be discouraged if the first stylist you ask is on the expensive side! Just keep looking. 
• Deciding on maintenance.  Touch-ups are a requirement for microlink extensions because they need to be readjusted, especially if they slip out of place due to new growth. Decide if you want them touched up for an extra $100 every 6 weeks, or you’d simply like to take them out, do a different style, and have them reinstalled later.
• Hair longevity. The best part about microlinks is that the hair can be saved and reused! This means you don’t have to buy new packs of extensions every time you’d like an install, which saves you a ton of money. Depending on the quality of your hair, microlink extensions can be saved up to 4 years.