One of my favourite questions after a first appointment is: "So what can I do with it now?" The answer: almost anything. Keratin bonds are so small and flat that you can wear your hair down, half-up, in an updo, curled or braided. A few tricks do help, though, to keep the bonds invisible even on windy days and in high ponytails – and to make sure your styling doesn't put unnecessary strain on the extensions. Here are my practical tips.
The golden rule: your top hair is your best friend
When applying extensions we always leave an area of your natural hair free: the crown, the hairline around your face and a strip above the ears. This top hair falls over the bonds and hides them. So for almost every style: work with your top hair, not against it. Styles where you pull all your hair up tightly from underneath are the only genuinely tricky ones.
Ponytails
The classic works very well – with a few tricks:
- Mid-height rather than right on top. A ponytail at the level of the back of the head hides the bonds most reliably. For a very high ponytail, carefully brush the lower sections up first, then lay the top hair over them.
- Not too tight. A loose ponytail is kinder to the roots and the bonds. A very tight ponytail every day can, over time, pull on the scalp.
- Spiral or fabric hair ties instead of thin elastics with metal parts – they don't snag.
- Don't place the hair tie directly over bonds.
Buns and messy buns
A loose bun often looks even better with extensions than before, because the extra hair adds volume. Tip: set the bun a little lower on the back of the head and pull out a few strands around your face. Always put pins into your natural hair or the extension lengths – never directly into a bond.
Half-up styles
Half-up styles are ideal with keratin bonds. You only take the top section – exactly the top hair – back. The bonds lie underneath and stay completely covered. Perfect for everyday, the office and evening events.
Curls and waves
Human hair extensions can be curled just like your own hair. To keep it gentle:
- Always use heat protection on the lengths.
- Moderate temperature: 160–180 °C is enough for most hair types.
- Keep at least 2–3 cm away from the bond – never hold the tool directly on it.
- Use heat-free alternatives: overnight heatless curls, braid waves or rollers are kind to hair and bonds.
A bonus: because extensions are denser than a lot of natural hair, curls often last longer.
Straightening
Straighteners are fine as long as you use heat protection and don't run them over the bonds. Start just below the bond. Fewer passes at a slightly lower temperature are better than lots of hot ones.
Braids
Extensions make braids noticeably fuller – a real highlight, especially if your natural hair is fine. A loose fishtail or farmhouse braid always works. For braids woven close to the head, such as French or Dutch braids, pick up sections loosely and make sure no bonds get pulled into the strands. For sleeping I recommend a loose braid anyway, as described in our aftercare guide.
Switching your parting
A centre parting, side parting or switching between the two is usually possible, because we place the bonds with enough distance from the parting area. If you know you like to change your parting often, please mention it at your first appointment – then we'll plan the placement accordingly.
Accessories
- Headbands and clips: no problem, as long as they don't press on a bond.
- Silk scrunchies: the gentlest way to tie your hair.
- Large claw clips: popular and practical, just don't clamp them too tight.
- Hats and scarves: ideally satin-lined – more in our article on autumn and winter.
Common styling mistakes
- Holding a straightener or curling iron directly on the bonds.
- Wearing a very tight, high ponytail every day.
- Pushing pins through the bonds.
- Backcombing right at the bond – it mats the hair at the root.
- Styling products heavy in oil or silicone at the roots.
- Styling wet hair and sleeping on it.
If a bond does show
It's usually a sign that the bonds have grown out and it's time for maintenance. Until then, shifting your parting slightly or setting the style a little lower helps.
Common questions
Can I wear a ponytail for sport?
Yes, a loose mid-height ponytail or braid is ideal for workouts. It prevents friction and tangling. After training, let your hair down and allow the roots to dry.
How long do curls last with extensions?
Often much longer than in natural hair, usually until the next wash. Secure curls overnight in a loose bun and they'll still look great in the morning.
Can I use dry shampoo for volume?
Yes, sparingly and away from the bonds. Brush it out thoroughly afterwards so nothing collects around the bonds.
Our takeaway
With keratin bonds you're almost completely free in how you style your hair: ponytail, bun, half-up, curls, straight or braided. Work with your top hair, keep heat and pins away from the bonds and treat your roots to loose rather than tight styles. Then your extensions stay invisible – however you wear them.