MRI and Hair Extensions: What Every Stylist and Client Needs to Know Before a Scan
For many clients, wearing hair extensions is about more than just hair—it’s about confidence, identity, and feeling whole. But when medical needs arise, such as an upcoming MRI scan, these same extensions can become a source of stress. Stylists are often the first people a client turns to when faced with this situation—and we have an opportunity to offer not just answers, but support.
In this post, we’ll explore which extensions are MRI-safe, how to help your clients navigate this process, and why choosing the right method matters when it comes to both image clarity and emotional well-being.
Whether you’re a stylist looking to stay informed or a client feeling unsure about your upcoming MRI, this article offers clarity, comfort, and a path forward.
What Happens During an MRI Scan?
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a powerful medical tool that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, an MRI scan doesn’t use radiation. Instead, it works by reacting to water molecules inside your body and produces extremely accurate visuals of bones, organs, and tissues.
The machine uses a strong magnet, so metal of any kind is a concern. When a patient enters the scanner, they’re typically asked to remove all metal items—jewelry, belts, piercings, and yes, even some hair extensions.
Why Are Hair Extensions a Concern During an MRI?
Many popular hair extension methods—especially those using microbeads or metal beads—contain small amounts of metal. Even though these components are tiny, they can still pose a risk when exposed to the magnet inside an MRI machine. Here’s why:
Metal can heat up during the scan, which can cause discomfort or even a burn.
Metallic microbeads may distort the image, interfering with the accuracy of the MRI.
The technician may have to stop or reschedule the scan if unknown objects are detected in the patient's hair.
That’s why many imaging centers require full removal of extensions that contain any metal, especially if the scan is of the head, neck, or spine.
Which Types of Hair Extensions Are MRI-Safe?
Not all extensions are created equal—especially when it comes to MRI safety. The safest option by far is tape-in hair extensions. These are applied using adhesive strips—no metal, no clips, no microbeads—making them ideal for patients undergoing an MRI scan.
💡 Always confirm with your client’s radiology department to ensure they allow tape-ins during the specific type of scan being performed.
Which Types of Extensions Should Be Avoided?
Extensions that include metallic microbeads, rings, or clips should be removed before a scan. These include:
I-tip (prebond) extensions (strands inserted into beads)
Microbead extensions (strands with metal rings attached)
Volume weft with beads (any beaded rows, invisible wefts, butterfly wefts etc)
Clip-in hair extensions (metal clips attached to rows of hair)
These styles, while popular, contain metal that can interfere with MRI images, reduce safety, and even delay the process. Some technicians have reported stopping scans mid-procedure due to unexpected objects showing up on the image. Yikes!
Can Extensions Really Affect an MRI Image?
Yes. Even the smallest metal components can create what’s known as an artifact on an MRI image. This interference can block important details and lead to incomplete or inaccurate readings.
In serious cases, a second MRI may be required, especially for areas like the cervical spine under anesthesia or the head and neck, where the hair extensions are in close proximity to the area being scanned.
That’s why clear communication between stylist, client, and clinical technician is so important.
What Should Stylists Do When a Client Needs an MRI?
As a stylist, your role goes far beyond creating beautiful hair. In times like this, your guidance can mean the world.
Here’s how to support your client:
Listen with empathy. Understand the medical and emotional weight of this moment.
Review their current method. If they’re wearing metal beads, take a moment to do a risk assessment and discuss switching to a safer option like tape-ins.
Offer temporary alternatives. Let them know they won’t have to go without hair extensions if they switch methods.
Schedule a reinstall. For clients needing to remove extensions, book a post-scan appointment to reinstall as soon as they’re cleared.
It’s not just about beauty—it’s about helping someone feel like themselves when everything else feels uncertain.
What Happened with Savannah McAllister?
On TikTok, user Savannah McAllister shared a powerful video describing how her microbead extensions created a stressful situation before her MRI scan. The technician asked her to remove them, leaving her anxious and unprepared.
Her story brought widespread attention to the issue, with many viewers commenting that they’d never been warned about hair extension concerns before their MRI. Her experience emphasized the importance of awareness, screening, and supportive salon care.
Will Tape-Ins Interfere with Head or Neck MRIs?
Usually not. Tape-in hair extensions are flat, soft, and non-metal, making them far less likely to affect head, neck, or spine MRIs. However, we recommend clients confirm with their provider before the scan, especially if the image will be taken near the scalp.
Adding a simple note to their intake paperwork—something like “client is wearing tape-in extensions, no metal present”—can streamline the process and avoid delays.
What If a Client Is Nervous About Switching Extension Types?
Change is hard—especially for clients facing health stress. Your role is to ease that transition. Here’s how:
Show photos or videos of tape-in transformations.
Reassure them that tape-ins are lightweight, discreet, and easy to remove or adjust.
Highlight the safety, comfort, and versatility of tape-ins during this time.
One thoughtful comment, one helpful tip, or one kind offer can truly make all the difference for a client facing medical uncertainty.
Can I Share This Info With My Clients?
Yes—please do. Share this post, print out a note with safety guidance, or even create a quick video walkthrough for your clients. They’ll thank you for being proactive and informed.
You can also include this in your salon’s post-care instructions or consultation process, especially for clients who have a known medical history or are scheduling routine imaging. The more we can get this updated info out there, the shocked reaction, that hair users like McAllister experienced, can be avoided.
Key Takeaways: Hair Extensions and MRI Safety
Metal beads, clips, and microbeads should be removed before an MRI scan.
Tape-in hair extensions are typically MRI-safe and can remain in place for many scans.
MRI images can be affected by metal, leading to delayed or inaccurate results.
Clients should always notify their technician about their extensions during the screening process.
Stylists play a powerful role in offering alternatives and emotional support.
Viral stories like Savannah McAllister’s have helped highlight this important issue.
The NHS, FDA, and other experts recommend minimal metal and clear documentation.
You’re Not Alone—And Neither Are They 💗
As a stylist, you’re more than a technician—you’re a guide, a cheerleader, and often a lifeline. When a client is facing medical procedures, your kindness, clarity, and expert advice can ease their fear and remind them they’re still seen, still valued, and still beautiful.
If your clients are navigating MRI-related stress, let them know they don’t have to go through it alone. You’ve got options. You’ve got answers. And most of all—you’ve got them.
👉 Need MRI-safe tape-in extensions for your clients?Browse our trusted selection here: SHOP TAPE EXTENSIONS
Together, we can keep beauty, safety, and confidence in every strand.
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