I-Tip, Tape-In, and hand-tied row extensions — natural-looking length and volume that moves with your hair, not against it.
The best extensions are the ones no one can tell are there. At Brian Richard’s, we work with three professional extension methods — each suited to a different hair type, lifestyle, and goal — and every application starts with a consultation to make sure we’re recommending the right one for you.
Extensions are priced at consultation because the cost varies significantly based on how much hair you need, your natural hair’s length and density, and which method we recommend. We’ll give you a clear number before we start — no surprises.
Whether you’re adding a few inches of length, filling in thinning areas, or looking for a dramatic volume transformation, we’ll build a plan that works with your hair — and your lifestyle.
We’ll recommend the method that’s right for your hair at your consultation. Here’s what each one involves.
Thin, pre-taped wefts are sandwiched around small sections of your natural hair using a medical-grade adhesive. They lie completely flat against the head — virtually undetectable even with your hair up. Application typically takes 1–2 hours, and move-up appointments every 6–8 weeks reposition the wefts as your hair grows.
Fine to medium hair; clients wanting a seamless, flat result they can wear up
Individual strands of extension hair with a small keratin tip are attached to your natural hair using a micro-bead — no heat and no adhesive involved. I-Tips give the most natural movement of any extension method because each strand moves independently. They require a move-up appointment every 2–4 months as your hair grows.
Medium to thick hair; clients wanting maximum movement and flexibility with styling
Beaded rows are created in your natural hair and extension wefts are hand-sewn onto the rows — no clips, no glue, no heat. This method distributes weight evenly across the head for a comfortable, natural feel, and is one of the most damage-friendly methods available when properly maintained. Move-up appointments every 6–8 weeks keep the rows positioned correctly as your hair grows.
Most hair types; clients wanting volume, length, and a natural feel with minimal damage risk
Not sure which method is right for you? Here’s a quick comparison — and remember, your stylist will make a recommendation at your consultation based on your actual hair.
Tape-in extensions lie flat and suit fine to medium hair. I-Tips use no heat or glue and give the most natural movement. Hand-tied rows are sewn onto beaded rows with no adhesive, distributing weight evenly. All three require maintenance appointments every 6–8 weeks as your natural hair grows.
| Tape-In | I-Tip | Hand-Tied Row | |
|---|---|---|---|
| APPLICATION | Medical-grade tape | Micro-bead, no heat | Hand-sewn wefts, no glue |
| BEST HAIR TYPE | Fine to medium | Medium to thick | Most hair types |
| APPLICATION TIME | 1–2 hours | 2–4 hours | 3–5 hours |
| MOVE-UP INTERVAL | 6–8 weeks | 2–4 months | 6–8 weeks |
| WEARABLE UP? | Yes — lies flat | Yes | Yes |
| MOVEMENT FEEL | Natural, flat | Most natural | Natural, lightweight |
| HEAT USED? | No | No | No |
Your stylist examines your natural hair — its density, texture, and current condition — and discusses your goal. We recommend the right method based on your hair type and how you want to wear the result. We'll also give you a clear price before any commitment.
We select extension hair that matches your natural color and texture. If you're planning to color your extensions, this step also accounts for how the extension hair will accept color — different hair types process differently and we plan around that.
Your chosen method is applied section by section. Your stylist works carefully to place extensions where they'll blend naturally and distribute weight evenly. Application time varies by method — from 1–2 hours for tape-ins to 3–5 hours for hand-tied rows.
Once applied, your stylist blends the extension hair seamlessly with your natural hair, trims any length inconsistencies, and styles the final result. You'll leave with a clear maintenance schedule — including when your first move-up appointment should be.
Extensions are an investment — proper care at home extends their life significantly and protects your natural hair. Here’s what we tell every extension client before they leave.
Book a complimentary consultation. We’ll look at your hair, recommend the right method, and give you a clear price — before you commit to anything.
Tape-in extensions need a move-up appointment every 6–8 weeks. I-Tip extensions last 2–4 months before a move-up. Hand-tied row extensions need tightening every 6–8 weeks. With proper care and regular maintenance appointments, the extension hair itself can be reused for multiple cycles — which makes the cost per month more manageable over time.
When applied correctly by an experienced stylist and maintained on schedule, professional extensions should not damage your natural hair. The most common cause of extension-related damage is skipping move-up appointments — which allows the attachment point to travel too far down the shaft and creates tension. We’ll set you up with a maintenance schedule at your consultation and remind you when it’s time to come in.
Extension hair can generally be colored, but it behaves differently than your natural hair — especially when lifting or toning. We typically recommend selecting extension hair that already matches your target color rather than applying color after installation. If you want to color both your natural hair and your extensions, your stylist will advise on the best approach at your consultation.
Tape-in extensions use pre-taped wefts that sandwich sections of your natural hair — they lie flat and are great for fine to medium hair. I-Tip extensions are individual strands attached with a micro-bead, with no heat or adhesive involved. I-Tips offer more natural movement and are better for clients with thicker hair or those who want to wear their hair in multiple ways.
Yes, with a few adjustments. Use a sulfate-free shampoo, wash in a downward motion rather than circular scrubbing, and be gentle at the attachment points. Extensions can be heat-styled, but always use a heat protectant — the extension hair doesn’t have the natural oils your hair does, which means it’s more susceptible to heat damage over time.
Extension pricing varies based on the method, how much hair is needed, and your natural hair’s starting length and density — which is why we price it at consultation rather than quoting a number upfront. We’ll give you a complete, transparent cost breakdown before you make any decision. There are no surprises at checkout.
Balayage pairs beautifully with extensions — the soft, blended color transition hides the extension line naturally.
Color your natural hair before extensions for a seamless blend. Full color menu including balayage, highlights, and single process.
Brian Richard’s Salon provides professional hair extension services to clients from Franklin, Bellingham, Medway, Millis, Norfolk, Wrentham, Milford, Medfield, Holliston, Plainville, Foxborough, Mansfield, MA and Cumberland, RI. Located at 456 West Central Street, Suite 3, Franklin, MA — right off Route 495.
