Protect Your Hair This Winter From Cold Weather Dryness
March 1, 2021
Written by Shannon Reiley, Colorado's First Certified Natural Beaded Row Stylist and Owner of Light Styling in Longmont, CO
Wondering what makes Natural Beaded Row (NBR) extensions so transformative for thinning or fine hair? As someone who's been specializing in NBR since its early days—trained directly by creator Danielle White at DKW Styling Academy—I've seen firsthand how the right weft choice can create seamless, damage-free volume that feels like your own hair. If you're in Longmont, Boulder, or the Northern Front Range and curious about NBR, you're likely asking: What are wefts, and how do types like hand-tied versus micro-wefts affect the results? Or, what's the deal with Asian versus European hair sources?
In this guide, I'll break it all down based on my years of experience installing NBR on hundreds of clients at Light Styling. We'll cover the key differences, pros and cons, and why I blend premium brands like Isla, Covet & Mane, Muse Hair Pro, and Invisible Bead Extensions to customize for your hair type. My goal? To educate you so you feel confident booking that free consultation—because healthier, fuller hair starts with understanding your options. Let's dive in.
Before we get into the types, let's answer a common question: What exactly is a weft in NBR hair extensions? A weft is a bundle of hair strands sewn or tied together at the top, forming a seam that's attached to your natural hair using beads and thread. In the NBR method—pioneered by Danielle White—this creates invisible rows that add length and volume without glue, tape, or heat, making it ideal for fine or thinning hair.
At Light Styling in Longmont, I prioritize wefts that promote hair health, blending them with smoothing treatments like Brazilian Blowout or supplements like Goldie Locks for long-lasting results. But not all wefts are created equal. The two main categories I focus on are construction (hand-tied vs. micro-wefts) and hair origin (Asian vs. European). Choosing the right one depends on your hair density, texture, and lifestyle—factors we assess in every personalized consultation.
Both are lightweight and bead-compatible, but they differ in construction, feel, and suitability. Here's a clear breakdown:
Hand-tied wefts are crafted by skilled artisans who manually tie small bundles of hair onto a thin lace or thread base. This creates an ultra-flexible, flat weft that's incredibly lightweight—often weighing less than traditional machine wefts. They feature a "mustache" or return hair (short hairs folded over the top) for added concealment and a natural drape.
From my experience, hand-tied wefts shine for clients with fine or thinning hair in Colorado's dry climate. They're customizable—I can cut them to fit your head shape perfectly—and they stack without bulk, reducing tension on your scalp.
Micro-wefts (sometimes called micro-tied or genius wefts) are a hybrid: machine-sewn for precision but designed to mimic the thinness of hand-tied. They're narrower and often reinforced for durability, making them suitable for all hair types, including medium to thick.
In my Longmont studio, I have been incorporating micro-wefts because of the absence of a mustache and because they are less likely to shed at their seam.
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Beyond construction, the hair's geographic origin impacts texture, durability, and how well it matches your natural strands. Asian and European wefts are two popular sources—here's what sets them apart.
Asian wefts (often from China or Southeast Asia) feature thicker, coarser strands that are naturally straight and strong. This hair is abundant and undergoes processing to soften it, making it resilient against Colorado's elements like wind and low humidity.
European wefts come from Western Europe, offering finer, silkier strands with a natural wave or body. The cuticle is smoother, so it needs less processing, resulting in a luxurious, lightweight feel that's rarer and more exclusive.
When I first started NBR services over a decade ago, I exclusively used Isla hand-tied wefts, created by Danielle White herself. They're still my go-to for their superior quality and ethical sourcing—lightweight, Remy hair that integrates flawlessly.
But to offer more options, I've incorporated Covet & Mane for their innovative micro-wefts, Muse Hair Pro for versatile Euro blends, and Invisible Bead Extensions (IBE) wefts for hybrid techniques. This allows me to tailor to every client, whether you're seeking Asian durability or European silkiness. Clients from Niwot to the Front Range rave about the natural results—many travel just for my expertise.
Pro tip from my experience: Always prioritize Remy hair (cuticles aligned) to prevent tangling, and combine with a Brazilian Blowout for frizz-free maintenance.
Myth: All wefts damage hair.
Fact: Properly installed NBR wefts (like hand-tied) distribute weight evenly, promoting growth when maintained.
Myth: Micro-wefts are inferior.
Fact: They're often more durable for thicker hair without sacrificing comfort.
Myth: Asian hair is "low quality."
Fact: It's robust and versatile, especially post-processing.
Myth: You can't mix brands.
Before and After: Real Results from Light Styling
"Before and after Natural Beaded Row extensions using hand-tied wefts for thinning hair – Light Styling Longmont CO"]
Seeing is believing—my clients achieve fuller, healthier looks without the bulk.
If this has you excited about NBR wefts, the next step is simple: Schedule a free personalized consultation at Light Styling by filling out my application. We'll discuss your hair and your hair goals, and craft your ideal plan. Serving Longmont, Boulder, and beyond—let's make your hair dreams reality.
https://lightstylinghair.com or call us today!
Typically 6-12 months with proper care, but rows are moved up every 8 weeks.
Yes, especially when customized—they're lightweight and adapt to dry climates.
European for a softer blend, but it depends—let's assess yours!
Absolutely, and I often do for optimal results.
For more on NBR, check our website https://lightstylinghair.com/services/hair-extensions or our You Tube Channel.
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