You just got your keratin extensions applied, and they look incredible. But a few weeks in, you notice the bonds sitting a little farther from your scalp than they used to. So now you’re left wondering when exactly you’re supposed to head back to the salon for a move-up.
We get this question all the time here at Big Kizzy, since we carry all the essentials for extensions. Moving up your keratin extensions keeps them looking natural and protects your hair underneath. Below, we’ll cover how often you should schedule a move-up, the signs that tell you it’s time, and what the process involves. Here’s what you need to know!
What Does It Mean to Move Up Keratin Bond Extensions?
Keratin extensions are bonded close to the scalp, and as your natural hair grows, the bond gradually shifts further down the strand. A move-up appointment is when your stylist uses keratin hair extensions tools to remove each bond, slide it back up closer to the root, and reseal it in place. The same extensions get reused, just repositioned to sit where they’re supposed to.
Skipping move-ups doesn’t just affect how your hair looks. Bonds that have grown out too far put more weight and tension on a smaller section of natural hair, which can lead to tangling, matting, or even breakage near the root over time.
How Often Should You Move Up Keratin Hair Extensions?
Most clients need a move-up appointment every 3 to 6 months, though this can shift depending on how fast your hair grows and how well you’re maintaining your extensions at home. Since keratin bonds are individually attached, they grow out gradually rather than all at once, which is part of why this window is wider than it is with other extension methods. Trust that your stylist knows how to do keratin hair extensions and follow their advice when it’s time to come back for a move up.
How Long Do Keratin Extensions Last?
A common question that comes up alongside move-up timing is how long do keratin extensions last overall. The hair itself can typically be reused 1 to 2 times or more with proper care, as long as it’s reapplied or retipped as needed. Staying consistent with your move-up schedule helps you get that extra mileage, since well-maintained bonds put less stress on both the keratin extensions and your natural hair.
Signs It’s Time for a Keratin Extension Move-Up
Not sure if you’re at the point where you need a move-up? Here’s what to look out for:
Visible Gap Near the Scalp
Once you notice a gap between your scalp and the bond, that’s usually the clearest sign. The bond hasn’t grown out, but the natural hair underneath has, leaving a more obvious section showing through.
Bonds Feel Heavier or More Noticeable
As the bond travels further down the hair shaft, it tends to feel more like a small weight hanging from the strand rather than sitting flush. If you can feel the bonds knocking against each other or shifting around more than usual, it’s a sign they’ve grown out past where they should be.
Tangling Around the Roots
Because the bonds aren’t anchored as close to the scalp anymore, they have more room to move and catch on the surrounding hair. If you’re noticing more knots forming right at the root, especially after sleeping or showering, that’s often a result of bonds that need to be moved up.
Extensions Feel Less Secure
A bond that’s grown out is also a bond that’s more likely to slip or feel loose. If your keratin extensions feel less stable than they did when you first got them, this is your hair telling you it’s time to head back in.
Which Keratin Hair Extensions Tools Are Needed for a Move-Up?
During a move-up, you'll need keratin hair extensions tools, such as a quality remover, keratin rebonds, and a set of extension pliers. Keratin rebonds are used to give a fresh ktip for each application, so you can reuse your current extensions.
Here are a few products we recommend:
-
Keratin Rebonds
Keep Your Keratin Extensions Looking Their Best
At Big Kizzy, we carry everything stylists need for keratin extensions, whether that’s move-ups, retipping, or removals, from extension pliers to professional bond removers. Check out our website to stock up on the keratin hair extensions tools that make every appointment smooth and seamless, along with everything else you need for the rest of your extension services.