What Are Beaded Weft Hair Extensions? A Stylist’s Full Guide

Extensions can feel like a whole new language sometimes—tape-ins, K-tips, I-tips, halos, clip-ins… and then there’s beaded weft hair extensions. If you’ve heard the term but aren’t quite sure what it means (or how they differ from other methods), don’t worry—you’re not alone.

As stylists, clients ask us about this method all the time: “Are beaded wefts the same as sew-ins? Do they hurt? How long do they last?” So let’s break it all down in plain English.

First Things First: What Exactly Is a Beaded Weft?

Beaded weft extensions are long rows (wefts) of hair that are attached to your natural hair using tiny silicone-lined beads.

• The stylist sections the hair into rows.

• A small portion of natural hair is threaded through a bead.

• The weft is laid across and secured by clamping the beads shut.

Think of it as a hybrid between a traditional sew-in and I-tip extensions. You get the long, thick wefts without braids, glue, or heat.

Why Stylists Love Beaded Wefts

Beaded weft extensions are growing in popularity in salons because they offer the best of both worlds:

• No glue, no heat: Less risk of chemical or thermal damage.

• Reusable: The wefts can be taken out and reinstalled.

• Customizable: Works for different densities, from fine to thick hair.

• Natural look: When done well, they blend beautifully with natural hair.

How Do Beaded Wefts Compare to Other Methods?

Beaded wefts really shine for clients who want the look of a full, thick install without adhesives or braiding.

Who Are Beaded Wefts Best For?

• Medium to thick hair clients: The beads need enough natural hair to grip securely.

• Clients wanting length + volume: Because they’re installed in rows, you get a lot of fullness.

• Style lovers: Great for ponytails, braids, and waves since the base is flexible.

Who should probably skip them?

• Very fine or fragile hair clients: The beads may slip or cause too much tension.

How Long Do Beaded Weft Extensions Last?

On average: 6–8 weeks before needing a move-up.

• The hair itself can last 6–12 months with proper care.

• The beads need tightening every couple of months as your natural hair grows.

So while they’re not “install once and forget,” they are reusable and fairly low-maintenance compared to some other methods.

The Application Process (Stylist’s POV)

1. Section the hair into horizontal rows.

2. Thread small sections of natural hair through silicone-lined beads.

3. Lay the weft across the beads.

4. Clamp the beads shut to hold the weft in place.

5. Blend and style so everything looks seamless.

Install time is usually 1–2 hours, depending on the number of rows.

A Tangent: The Comfort Question

Clients always ask, “Will it hurt?” Truthfully, there can be a little scalp tightness for the first couple of days—it’s the same with tape-ins or sew-ins. But once the hair settles, beaded wefts are surprisingly comfortable. Most clients forget they’re even there.

Caring for Beaded Wefts

To keep them looking good and lasting long:

• Brush daily with an extension-safe brush.

• Avoid heavy oils near the beads—they can cause slipping.

• Wash gently with sulfate-free shampoo.

• Braid before bed to prevent tangling.

• Schedule move-ups every 6–8 weeks.

A little care goes a long way.

FAQs About Beaded Wefts

1. Do beaded weft extensions damage natural hair?

Not when applied correctly. They’re actually one of the gentler methods since they use no glue or heat.

2. How many rows do I need for a full head?

Usually 2–3 rows for volume and length. More rows may be needed for very thick transformations.

3. Can I reuse my beaded wefts?

Yes! With good quality hair, you can reuse them for multiple installs.

4. Are beaded wefts visible?

Not when applied properly. The beads are small and hidden under your natural hair.

5. How do beaded wefts compare to tape-ins?

Beaded wefts offer more volume in fewer rows, while tape-ins are lighter and flatter. It depends on the look you’re after.

Final Word: Beaded Wefts Done Right With Cooviphair

So, what are beaded weft hair extensions? They’re a bead-secured, reusable, and natural-looking way to add serious length and volume—without glue, heat, or braids. Perfect for medium to thick-haired clients, they’re versatile, comfortable, and built to last.

And when it comes to quality? That’s where Cooviphair makes the difference. Our beaded weft extensions are made with premium Remy human hair, designed to stay silky and reusable through multiple installs.

Contact Cooviphair today to explore our beaded weft collection and give your clients extensions that look flawless, feel comfortable, and blend like a dream.