Stranded Studios

Stranded Studios is a hair extensions studio in Phoenix, co-founded and co-owned by Mari Castro and Sydney Steer. Its work centers on two methods: micro weft extensions and keratin bond extensions, which the studio also calls nano K-tips. Micro weft installations start at $1,300, and keratin bond extensions have an average initial investment of $1,900, according to the studio.

Clients begin with a free consultation before booking. Every installation, in either method, includes a consultation, a hair and scalp assessment, the installation itself, a custom cut, a blowout and style, and a starter kit with three full-size products and an extension brush. Micro weft pricing also covers a scalp detox and Iles shampoo, conditioner and leave-in serum.

Micro weft extensions are placed on beaded rows that form a base, with wefts sewn onto that base, without heat or glue. The studio describes the result as lightweight and flexible. Keratin bonds can be rebonded up to two times after the first install, and are removed, rebonded and reinstalled every three to five months, with a total lifespan of about nine months. Weft extensions are expected to last eight to ten months, and weft clients return every six to eight weeks for a move-up, either dry (removal, reinstall, haircut and dry style) or wet (removal, scalp detox, reinstall, blowout and haircut).

The studio says it sources hair from several top-tier suppliers and uses only ethically sourced hair. Extensions come in straight, wavy and curly textures, in a range of colors, custom blends, textures and lengths. For care at home, the studio advises washing extensions one to three times a week, and it sells Iles hair care products and its own hair extension brush and a mini version.

The studio describes its aim as keeping clients' natural hair healthy while they wear extensions, and it tailors each install to the individual client.