Microlink hair extensions (also called micro bead extensions) are one of the most requested methods in our Hair Extensions Boston collection. They attach real human hair to your natural hair using a small, silicone-lined bead — no glue, no heat. If you're brand new to the method, start with our Micro Link Hair Extensions Beginner's Guide for the full walkthrough of application and aftercare. Here, we're answering the question we hear most: how do microlinks actually compare to tape-in and keratin extensions?
Microlink vs. Tape-In: What's the Real Difference?
These are the two methods clients ask us to compare most, and the right choice comes down to your hair type and how hands-off you want your maintenance to be.
- Application: Microlinks are applied strand by strand — a small section of your natural hair is threaded through a bead, which is then clamped shut. Tape-in extensions sandwich a small section of hair between two adhesive tape wefts.
- Reusability: Microlinks are fully reusable — since there's no adhesive, the same hair can be reinstalled multiple times. Tape-in wefts need fresh tape at each reapplication, though the hair itself can often be reused too.
- Best hair type: Microlinks tend to hold best on hair with a bit of texture or body — the slight grip helps keep the bead in place. Tape-ins tend to lie flattest and blend most seamlessly on straight, fine hair.
- Feel: Because there's no adhesive, microlinks move more naturally with your hair. Tape-ins sit flatter against the scalp.
Microlink vs. Keratin (I-Tip) Extensions
Microlinks and I-tip extensions are applied the same way at Noelle Salon — strand by strand, using a clamped bead rather than a heat-fused keratin tip. The real comparison most clients want is microlink/I-tip versus keratin bond extensions, which use heat to fuse the tip instead of a bead — and we've already written the deep dive on that exact question. See Keratin Bond vs. I-Tip Hair Extensions: Pros & Cons for the full breakdown on longevity, slippage, and which suits your lifestyle.
Why Clients Choose Microlinks
- No heat or adhesive touches your natural hair
- Fully reusable — the same extensions can be reinstalled at your next appointment
- Natural, 360-degree movement
- Works especially well if your hair has some texture or body to it
For the full list of pros, cons, and at-home care, see the Beginner's Guide.
Real Microlink Results
Pricing & Booking
Microlink installation is priced the same as our other extension methods — see the full breakdown in our Hair Extensions Cost in Boston guide (installation starts at $450). Every appointment starts with a free consultation so we can confirm microlinks are the right fit for your hair before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are microlink and I-tip extensions the same thing?
At Noelle Salon, yes — both use the same bead-based, strand-by-strand application with no heat or glue. "Microlink" and "I-tip" are often used interchangeably in the industry.
Which is better for me — microlink or tape-in?
It depends on your hair. Microlinks tend to hold best on hair with some texture or body, while tape-ins usually blend most seamlessly on straight, fine hair. A free consultation is the fastest way to know for sure.
Can microlinks really be reused?
Yes — since there's no adhesive involved, the same extensions can typically be reinstalled at your next maintenance appointment.
Is my hair suited for microlinks?
Most hair types work well with microlinks, though very fine or fragile hair may need a different method. We'll assess your hair's thickness and texture during your free consultation.
Book Your Free Consultation at Noelle Salon in Melrose, MA to find out if microlinks are the right method for your hair.
