Flat-Tip & I-Tip Extensions: Everything You Wanna Know

📌 What Are Flat-Tip Hair Extensions?

Flat-Tips are a modern update to the traditional U-Tip extensions. Unlike their curved predecessor, these come with a flat keratin bond that molds easily to the natural hair. The flat shape improves heat conduction, making application quicker and more secure.

Also called keratin bond or pre-bonded extensions, they sit flush against the scalp, minimizing bulk and creating a smooth, seamless finish. The result? Extensions that look natural, feel lightweight, and move just like your own hair. Perfect for a subtle boost or a full transformation. 🌟

⚡ How Are Flat-Tips Applied?

Flat-Tips are installed with a heated tool that bonds the keratin tip to your natural hair. Because each strand is applied individually, a full head can take up to 3 hours. ⏳

We recommend having them fitted by a professional stylist for best results. Once applied, they can last 3–5 months with proper care. To maintain their fresh look, reapply or reposition the bonds every 6–8 weeks. The good news? Origins Hair Flat-Tips are reusable, saving you money on every salon visit. 💖

📌 What Are I-Tip Hair Extensions?

I-Tips (also known as microbead, micro-link, stick-tip, or cold fusion extensions) are applied without heat or glue. Instead, small metal beads or rings are used to attach each strand of extension to a section of your natural hair.

This method creates a lightweight feel and allows full 360° movement, so the extensions blend and behave just like natural hair. Unlike wefts that come in wide sheets, I-Tips are applied strand by strand—making them flexible, secure, and virtually undetectable. 🌿

Origins Hair Matte I-Tips are designed with a matte stick shape for a discreet, natural look that blends even more seamlessly compared to standard glossy tips.

⚡ How Are I-Tips Applied?

Your stylist will section small pieces of your natural hair, thread them through a bead, and insert the I-Tip extension into it. The bead is then clamped securely about half an inch from the scalp—close enough to be secure but comfortable enough for natural growth. ✂️

The placement typically follows neat patterns across the head, ensuring the extensions sit naturally and invisibly. This method can be customized for volume, density, or simply to add length.

🔍 Flat-Tip vs I-Tip: What’s the Difference?

Flat-Tip = A Hybrid. Flat-Tips combine the best of Tape-Ins and I-Tips. You get the 360° movement and adhesive-free installation of I-Tips, plus the flat, wider distribution of hair like Tape-Ins. This means more comfort, a lightweight feel, and great coverage. 💎

I-Tip = Strand by Strand. I-Tips share the same natural movement and glue-free method, but since they’re installed individually, they create more volume potential. The trade-off is they don’t lay as flat as Flat-Tips, which can make them look fuller but less spread out.

💆♀️ How to Care for Flat-Tip & I-Tip Extensions

🧴 Washing & Conditioning

• Use sulfate-free shampoo and gentle conditioner.
• Massage only at the roots to avoid loosening bonds or beads.
• Apply conditioner to mid-lengths and ends, never near the bonds.

💇 Brushing & Detangling

• Detangle thoroughly before washing.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or soft extension brush.
• Brush in small sections from the bottom up, holding roots for support.

🌸 Moisturizing & Styling

• Apply serum or oil daily to mid-lengths and ends.
• Limit hot tools and always use a heat protectant.
• Keep styling tools at low to medium heat.

😴 Sleeping & Lifestyle

• Braid or tie hair loosely before bed; use silk pillowcases to reduce friction.
• After workouts, brush and wash gently to avoid sweat buildup.

👩🔧 Maintenance

• See your stylist every 6–8 weeks for adjustments.
• Proper maintenance ensures your natural hair stays healthy and extensions last longer.