Monti Extensions & Academy

Monti Extensions & Academy began in 2016 as a teaching program for stylists, and it also sells a line of extensions to clients. Founder Deb Monti co-owns Milvali Salon, which has sites in San Francisco and Mill Valley. In-person classes take place at the Union Street classroom. The founder also goes to various parts of the US to certify stylists in the Monti Method.

There are two course formats. The one-day class focuses on one extension method the student picks and meets on select Mondays from 11 AM to 4 PM, with theory in the morning and practical work in the afternoon. The two-day class teaches three methods, I-Tip, tape-in and weft (machine and hand-tied), on select Sundays and Mondays from 10 to 5. Day one is theory: consultations, color matching, how to explain the service to clients, and the advantages and drawbacks of each method. Day two is entirely hands-on across all three. Enrollment is limited to five students per class, with one educator for every five. Training uses mannequins, which are supplied to any student who doesn't own one.

Students receive practice hair, a workbook, aftercare materials and a certificate. The two-day course also includes a professional starter kit with one bundle of hair per method, installation tools, a workbook, scripts and quizzes. Students get mentorship after the class and can text questions to the business's line.

The business teaches three principles for avoiding extension damage: no tight tension, no over-direction, and equal weight across all methods, plus a focus on section precision in every installation. It also encourages a mindset of small, steady improvements in installations, consultations and practice.

Monti hair is sold to licensed stylists and Monti Certified students. The business describes it as ethically sourced, single-donor Indian temple hair that has passed quality control. It comes in 25 colors across the I-Tip, tape and weft methods. The line also includes micro-link I-Tips in two sizes, silicone-free hand-tied wefts, the Mane Tray extension holder and a range of installation tools. Course payments are non-refundable; if plans change, the payment becomes credit toward a future course. Payment plans are available at checkout through Sezzle and Shop Pay.

Teaches three principles for avoiding extension damage (equal weight, no tight tension, no over-direction) and a steady-improvement mindset for installations, consultations and practice.