IBE (Invisible Bead Extensions) are a beaded-row extension method that attaches wefts of hair to your natural hair with small beads instead of glue or heat, so they lie flat and blend naturally. At Curious Salons, IBE and hand-tied Weft Pony Hair Extensions start with a consultation, a personalized quote and a deposit before your install is booked. Dreaming of length and fullness for the holidays? Here's everything you'll want to know before your consult.
Key Takeaways
- IBE uses small beads, not glue or heat, to attach wefts of hair in discreet rows.
- Every extension client starts with a consultation, then gets a personalized quote and pays a deposit before booking.
- Move-up appointments are part of the plan as your natural hair grows.
- At-home care matters: gentle shampoo, conditioner on lengths, a soft brush and heat protection.
- Book your consult early if you want extensions in time for holiday parties.
What Are IBE Extensions?
IBE stands for Invisible Bead Extensions. Your stylist creates a row of small beads close to the scalp along a section of your own hair, then attaches wefts of extension hair to that row. No glue, no heat tools, no tape. Because the beads are small and the wefts are thin, the result lies flat and moves with your hair, which is where the "invisible" comes in.
IBE is popular with clients who want length, fullness or both, and who'd like a method that's gentle on their natural hair when it's installed and maintained by a trained stylist.
What Is the Difference Between IBE and Hand-Tied Weft Extensions?
Both are beautiful, natural-looking options, and both are offered at Curious. The best choice depends on your hair density, lifestyle and goals.
| IBE (Invisible Bead Extensions) | Hand-Tied Weft Pony Hair Extensions | |
|---|---|---|
| How it attaches | Wefts attached to a row of small beads | Thin hand-tied wefts, placed by your stylist |
| Feel | Flat, discreet and lightweight | Soft, seamless and flexible |
| Great for | Adding fullness and length with a flat finish | Natural movement and blended volume |
| Maintenance | Regular move-ups as hair grows | Regular move-ups as hair grows |
| Price | Personalized quote after consultation | Personalized quote after consultation |
Not sure which is you? That's exactly what the consultation is for. See both on our hair services page.
How Does the Extension Consultation Work?
- Book your consultation. Your stylist looks at your hair's density, texture, length and colour.
- Talk goals. More length? More volume? Both? Bring photos.
- Colour match. Your stylist matches extension hair to your shade so the blend is seamless.
- Get your personalized quote. Pricing depends on how much hair you need and the method, so every quote is custom.
- Pay your deposit and book your install. A deposit is required before the install appointment can be booked.
Our West Springs team are IBE specialists. Meet them in our West Springs boutique story.
How Long Do IBE Extensions Last?
Your extensions stay in with regular move-up appointments. As your natural hair grows, the beaded rows move away from the scalp, and your stylist moves them back up to keep everything comfortable, secure and invisible. How often you'll need a move-up depends on how fast your hair grows and how you care for it, and your stylist will map out a schedule with you at your consult.
Stylist tip: "Brush your extensions from the ends up, holding the hair just below the beaded row with your other hand. Never go to bed with wet extensions, and sleep with your hair in a loose braid. It keeps the wefts tangle-free and protects the rows overnight."
— Curious Salons stylist
How Do I Care for IBE Extensions at Home?
Treat your extensions like the investment they are. The basics:
-
Shampoo gently, focusing on the scalp. Kérastase Bain Extentioniste Shampoo (from $43) is made for long hair.
-
Condition mid-lengths and ends, keeping it off the rows. Kérastase Fondant Extentioniste Conditioner ($52) keeps lengths soft.
-
Protect before heat. Kérastase Thermique Extentioniste Heat Protectant ($67) is a good match for long hair that sees a lot of styling.
- Use a gentle brush. The Wet Brush Pro Detangler ($22) glides through without tugging, and the Kent Perfect For Detangling Large Quill Paddle Brush ($30) is a lovely everyday option.
- Dry the rows completely. Calgary's dry air helps, but always blow-dry the root area so the beads aren't left damp.
- Swap to silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction.
Shop the full long-hair lineup in the Kérastase Résistance collection.
What Is the Kérastase Extentioniste Treatment?
It's an in-salon Kérastase treatment designed for long hair, starting at $45+, and like all our treatments it starts with a consultation. It's a lovely add-on for extension wearers and anyone growing their hair out who wants lengths that look and feel their best.
When Should I Book Extensions for the Holidays?
Early. Because the process includes a consultation, colour matching, a custom quote and a deposit before your install, it's not a last-minute service. If you're picturing long, glossy hair for holiday parties, book your consult now so there's time to plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do IBE extensions cost?
Every extension service is priced with a personalized quote after your consultation, based on the amount of hair and the method you choose.
Do IBE extensions damage your hair?
IBE uses beads rather than glue or heat. Installed and maintained by a trained stylist, with gentle home care and regular move-ups, it's designed to be kind to your natural hair.
Can I colour my hair with extensions?
Talk to your stylist first. They can colour your natural hair and advise on keeping extension hair matched.
Can I wash my hair normally with IBE?
Yes, with a little extra care: gentle shampoo at the scalp, conditioner on the lengths and a thorough dry at the rows.
Where can I get IBE extensions in Calgary?
Start with a consultation at Curious Salons West Springs in SW Calgary. Our West Springs salon specializes in IBE. Book online or call your nearest salon.
Longer, fuller hair starts with a chat. Book your extension consultation online, and get your at-home kit ready with the Kérastase Résistance Extentioniste range.
