Microbead Hair Extensions Review: My Experience

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People are always so surprised when I say that I have hair extensions. 

It’s not something that I bring up in conversation but I have absolutely ZERO problems admitting that I have them.

The extensions that I have are Dream Catchers micro bead hair extensions and today I’m dishing ALL the details to help you decide if they’re the right option for you.

A smiling woman wearing a pink shirt and black sunglasses.

Microbead Hair Extensions Review

What are Dream Catchers hair extensions?

Dream Catchers Hair is 100% real human hair that is silicone-free, unlike the glue-in systems.

This hair gets attached to your hair via micro beads.

Remy Hair is real hair from a human and the hair cuticle is preserved, unlike synthetic hair.

Synthetic hair can’t always take heat styling and also won’t blend well like Remy Hair.

The quality of Remy Hair is the best in my opinion and I’m sure your stylist will agree.

Dream Catchers also use an I-Tip System that allows your hair to lay flat against your head (picture below) creating a seamless look.

You can choose from over 40 colors and the hair can still be dyed with your natural hair. 

For example, I get the color that most closely matches my natural hair color but if I wanted to dye my whole head once they are in I can do so.

You can also choose between straight, wavy, medium curl, or tight curl.

Additionally, you can choose what length of hair extensions you want to install. 

Short, medium, and long hair lengths are all available and you can cut it if you still don’t think it’s perfect when you put it in.

To install the hair your stylist will also need micro-cylinders. 

The micro-cylinders are what keep the hair in place and you need one pack of micro-cylinders per pack of hair.

I personally use 4 packs of hair (25 strands per pack) but you can use whatever you need.

I originally started with only 2 packs and slowly worked my way up. 

My natural hair is actually just as long as the extensions but I use the extensions for fullness, not length.

Whether you want thick hair, extra length, or just want to try a new look, i tip hair extensions are a great option (and the best option IMO!)

The back of a womans hair who is having microbead hair extensions installed.

What Microbead Hair Is Like

What are Dream Catchers hair extensions?

Dream Catchers Hair is 100% Remy Hair and silicone-free, unlike the glue-in systems.

Remy Hair is real human hair and the hair cuticle is preserved, unlike synthetic hair.

Synthetic hair can’t always take heat styling and also won’t blend well like Remy Hair.

The quality of Remy Hair is the best in my opinion and I’m sure your stylist will agree.

Dream Catchers also use an I-Tip System that allows your hair to lay flat against your head (picture below) creating a seamless look.

You can choose from over 40 colors and the hair can still be dyed with your natural hair. For example, I get the color that most closely matches my natural hair color but if I wanted to dye my whole head once they are in I can do so.

You can also choose between straight, wavy, medium curl, or tight curl.

To install the hair your stylist will also need micro-cylinders. The micro-cylinders are what keep the hair in place. You need one pack of micro-cylinders per pack of hair.

I personally use 4 packs of hair (25 strands per pack) but you can use whatever you need.

I originally started with only 2 packs and slowly worked my way up. My natural hair is actually just as long as the extensions but I use the extensions for fullness, not length.

A woman showing how to install extensions into hair.

Installation Process

The process of getting your hair extensions should go like this:

1.) Schedule a consultation. It will be impossible to get a real idea of what you need without one. Your stylist will help you determine if you are a good candidate and if so decide how many packs and what style you need to order.

2.) Have your Extensions installed. Depending on how many packs of hair you decide to put in this could be anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. It will all depend on how quickly your stylist likes to work.

How is the hair installed? 

Each strand of hair slides into a microbead and the microbead is then clamped down onto the hair (see photo below).

The placement of each strand will be at the discretion of your stylist and can be moved based on where it makes the most sense and is the least visible. 

Maintenance

Maintenance appointments should be scheduled for every 4-6 weeks. This is where you will have your extensions “adjusted”.

If your hair grows slowly you might be able to stretch it to 6-8 weeks, but that would likely be the max. 

Since the extensions are attached to the hair at the scalp they will grow away from your scalp with your hair.

If you let too much time go in between having your beads moved up/adjusted, your hair can start to twist and tangle which will end up causing matting. 

To move your extensions up your stylist will open up the bead, slide the hair back up to the scalp, and close the bead back up.

If you get your hair dyed then you’re probably in the salon every 4-6 weeks for touch ups anyway. 

On average I would say you can add about 45 minutes to an hour of salon time for the extensions adjustments.

I like to think of micro-bead hair as permanent hair extensions that require monthly maintenance. 

Every 6 months or so my stylist will also take the beads and extensions and move them to a new location. 

​If you leave the extensions in one spot for a very long time it can be taxing on your natural hair. 

By alternating between the attachment location you can help keep your hair healthy and strong. 

The back of a woman with long dark hair.

Candidates

​I can’t stress enough how important it is to find a trustworthy AND experienced stylist. 

There are plenty of stylists out there who will microbead extensions to make a buck – even if they know you’re not a great candidate. 

While microbead hair extensions are great for many people, your hair condition and hair type can have an impact on how well (or poorly) the extensions will work for you. 

For example, if you already have some damaged areas where your hair is thinning, but this happens to be an area where you would have a bead attached, you are likely not going to be a great candidate. 

The application method of these extensions requires attaching beads onto hair strands evenly around your scalp. 

if you have balding spots or spots where your hair already looks damaged, your stylist won’t be able to attach the hair. 

Costs

What is the cost of microbead hair extensions?

Let me just start by saying this is not going to be EXACTLY the same from salon to salon. 

However, it is a very good estimate.

Let’s say you want 4 packs of hair and each pack is $100 so that brings us to $400.

Now you need 4 packs of microbeads (one for each pack of hair) at $3.75 each. That’s $15.

Now factor in tax, which is roughly $31.50 plus shipping which is about $15.

Lastly, you need to factor in the cost for them to be installed. 

Generally, it’s $100 per pack. That’s another $400.

Overall your initial cost to purchase your hair and have them installed is about $861.5. Plus tip.

Now you need to think about the monthly maintenance. 

I personally have to get back into the salon within 5 weeks to have my hair adjusted. By 6 weeks they feel pretty far from my scalp and I don’t like that feeling.

It’s approximately $50 per pack to have your extensions adjusted. 

So if you have 4 packs in you’re looking at $200. 

Then of course, if you color and cut your hair you’ll start to see that number creep up pretty quickly!

Update: As of December 2023 these prices have increased quite substantially. 

This is why it is imperative to have a consultation with your stylist to get an estimate. 

Microbead Hair Extensions Pros And Cons

PROS

  • You can add as much length as you want
  • You can add as many packs for your desired fullness
  • You can still use hot tools such as curling irons, straighteners, blow dryers, etc.
  • You can still pull your hair up in high ponytails, a bun, a top knot, etc.
  • They are much safer for your hair than other types of extensions.

Cons

  • They are more expensive than other extensions
  • You have to keep up with the maintenance every 4-6 weeks
  • You shouldn’t put conditioner on your scalp (I don’t do that anyway because my hair is so thin.

FAQs

DO MICROBEAD EXTENSIONS FALL OUT?

The short answer to that is no, not normally. 

There are occasions where I will have a strand fall out but it’s not like you’ll be walking in the food store and it will just fall out. 

Generally, if a strand comes out it’s for a reason.

For example, if the extension wasn’t clamped in tight enough or you put conditioner on the bead (which you should never do) it could fall out.

Usually, before it falls out you will feel that it’s loose. 

If this happens, I normally just slide it out myself. (However, you can not just take these out yourself – only if a strand is loose you may be able to gently slide it off).

HOW LONG DO DREAM CATCHERS HAIR EXTENSIONS LAST?

The Dream Catchers website says hair will last up to 2 years if properly taken care of. 

However, I find that after about a year I need new hair.

After about a year the hair starts to become dry and the adhesive on the ends which keeps it in the bead becomes unusable. 

How well you maintain it will also have an impact on how long they last. 

CAN I SLEEP LIKE I NORMALLY WOULD?

YES! I do everything as I normally would. You don’t even know the extensions are there.

​Many other extensions require you to sleep with your hair in a loose braid (which I found incredibly annoying).

DO I NEED TO USE CERTAIN SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER FOR MY HAIR EXTENSIONS?

No, but I would suggest asking your stylist which hair products she suggests as you should stay away from shampoos with sulfates, oils, or too many moisturizing agents.

Milkshake makes great products that are safe for hair extensions and they smell amazing.

As far as dry shampoo, you can use whichever brand you choose!

WILL IT BE NOTICEABLE TO OTHERS THAT I HAVE MICROBEAD HAIR EXTENSIONS?

No. The microbeads used are the same color as the hair you choose so everything will blend. 

Microbead extensions are often called “invisible bead extensions” for this exact reason.

Depending on your hair there are also different ways your stylist can attach them. 

However, if your hair is exceptionally thin, your hairstylist might recommend another style of extensions such as DonnaBella. 

WHAT OTHER TYPES OF HAIR EXTENSIONS ARE THERE?

There are several types of hair extensions and hair extension methods, but the most popular are fusion extensions, tape-In extensions, and sew-In extensions (weave).

CAN I BRUSH MY HAIR LIKE NORMAL?

Yes, you just need to be careful around your scalp. 

For the top of my head I usually just tilt a bit to the side and brush.

For the rest of my hair, I will usually just hold my hair at the nape of my neck and brush the rest. It’s very simple.

CAN I USE HOT TOOLS ON MICROBEAD EXTENSIONS?

YES!!! I use a blow dryer and a 3 barrel wand several times per week and my hair still stays healthy.

This 3 barrel curling iron is my favorite styling tool.

If you do use hot tools though, I recommend using a heat protectant spray. This one is sulfate-free.

ARE MICROBEAD EXTENSIONS BAD FOR YOUR HAIR?

I have personally found these extensions to cause ZERO damage. The unique system was specifically developed to avoid hair damage. 

HOW DO YOU WASH YOUR HAIR WITH MICROBEAD EXTENSIONS?

I wash my hair as I normally would. 

The only difference is that you should stick to only applying conditioner towards the bottom half of your hair. 

You never want to put conditioner on your roots (or the beads).

HOW DO YOU SLEEP WITH MICROBEAD EXTENSIONS?

There is no special way you need to treat microbead extensions when sleeping. 

Other extensions might require you to put your hair in some sort of wrap or keep it braided. 

This is a huge pro to the microbead method. 

HOW OFTEN CAN YOU WASH MICROBEAD EXTENSIONS?

Every day! If I wanted to wash my hair 3 times a day it wouldn’t affect them.

WHAT’S THE BEST BRUSH FOR HAIR EXTENSIONS?

wet brush is the best brush to use for hair extensions. 

I recommend brushing it as soon as you get out of the shower.

If I curl my hair and want to brush out the curls I use the XL ionic antimicrobial, but never directly on the roots.

WHAT LENGTH DO MICROBEAD EXTENSIONS COME IN?

Dream Catchers offers hair in 20″ and 24″ lengths. 

You can cut them to whatever length you’d like. 

Conclusion

As someone who has had hair extensions in for over a decade, I can say from experience that they are amazing. 

If you’re wondering which microbead hair extensions are the best, I would 100% recommend Dream Catchers.

​Whether your end goal is thick hair, long hair, or just a different style, this hair can provide it all. 

It is such good quality and with proper care, it can look amazing for a very long time. 

Find a certified Dream Catchers stylist (there is a specific certification for this exact type of hair extension) from a reputable hair salon in your area to set up a consultation.

I hope you found this microbead hair extensions review helpful!

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The back of a woman with long dark hair.

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26 Comments

    1. Hi Jen,

      Sorry I somehow missed your comment here. I’m glad you liked the post. Thanks for stopping by!

  1. Several of my extensions same type as yours have fallen out and I can see where it ripped hair from the scalp I am worried that this will thin my hair even more. Have you found that? Also how often do u do the maintenance closer to 4 or 6 weeks?

    1. Hi Jen! I try to get to the salon by 5 weeks. The absolute longest I’ll wait between appts is 6 weeks because after that they are just too far from my scalp. I haven’t had the same problem as you with the the hair ripping from the scalp. I’ve had mine for over 5 years and my hair hasn’t seemed to be any thinner that it ever was. What kind of products do you use? That could also be the issue!

  2. Can you still wear your hair like half up half down or braid your hair or do the micro beads show through?

    1. Hey Amber! I’m able to do my hair however I like. The beads are matched to your exact hair color so they don’t stand out at all. It will also depend where your stylist places them. I’ve had her start them further down and sometimes up a bit higher. As long as you find someone who’s experienced with this particular type they should be able to figure it all out for you! I have super thin hair and still don’t have issues. If you follow me on instagram you can see I wear my hair in top knots, down, low ponys, etc.!

  3. Thank you for posting this – I am on the fence about getting hair extensions – I love my long hair but as I have aged it is not as thick as I would like nor as long. I started to research but it was all so confusing and different people told me different things. I really appreciate the financial aspect. Sad to say that is a real part of the equation – I currently get my hair cut twice a year – no color (for the most part) I did dye my braid sapphire blue which really looked wonderful with out standing screaming.

    But Gigantic hug and thanks for publishing this

    1. you’re so welcome! I totally get it about the cost. It is definitely a HUGE investment. I can honestly say my hair isn’t damaged in the least and now I’m going on over 7 years straight having them! I think as long as you keep up with the maintenance it is highly unlikely they would damage your hair. If you ever have any questions, feel free to reach out! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

  4. Hello
    Thanks for posting this amazing blog. It consists of very useful information. The language you used in this is very simple & easy to understood. Post some more blogs related to “best hair extensions for fine hair” It would be really helpful for those girls who want to look gorgeous in party or any other function.
    Thanks & Regards.

    1. Hi Raquel,

      I’m a personal trainer and I compete as well so I’m in the gym 5-6 days per week sweating like crazy. The extensions are totally fine with sweat – it has no impact on them at all!

  5. Hello
    Thanks for posting this amazing blog. It consists of very useful information. The language you used in this is very simple & easy to understood. Post some more blogs related to “Hair Extensions Reviews”. It would be really helpful for those girls who want to look gorgeous in party or any other function.
    Thanks & Regards.

  6. Thanks for this! I’ve got very fine hair and I just never feel like my hair looks good. I think this is the way I would like to go…now to figure out how to pay for them haha! 🙂

    1. It’s definitely an investment, but I would give up everything else if I had to LOL. I love that I can actually have hairstyles with them in. My hair is so thin if I curled it on its own I’d have like 1 strand!!!!

  7. Lauren-

    I’m about to get some, woo July 1st come on! Mine are already on order, but I was curious what length you had installed?

    Recent follower on Instagram (after finding you here) – Enjoying your content, thanks much!

    Nicole

    1. Hey Nicole,

      I’m so excited for ya! I love them so much. I think mine are the 18 inch but I’ve had them in for so long I don’t remember lol!

      Thanks so much for reaching out and for following along over on IG! I hope I can provide you with some great inspo! xo

  8. I’m a barber stylist ‘n convinced one hairdresser friend to take the dream catcher extension course .. my hair is fine n doesn’t grow …I really loved it .. well I moved from Alberta to New Brunswick , Canada..so my new hairdresser was willing to take the course..nobody is getting back to her n I’m very disappointed cause I love the hair n Ididn’t know I was moving so I’m Looking ratty ..n paid lots for the hair n …very disappointed ..also a friend in Edmonton Alberta took the course because of me n I’m stuck with needed my hair done starting to look like a rat … 😩

  9. Hello! Thank you for writing this very helpful. It’s my first time having microbead extensions. Is it normal to feel a little discomfort when moving your hair around to put it in pony tail?

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