Deb Monti, CEO of Milvali Extensions & Academy, is working to change the lack of personalized training around working with the microlink i-tip extensions method on textured hair. Her goal is to make the education for textured i-tip extensions more accessible to women of color.
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The global hair extension market has grown into a more than $2 billion industry and Microlink i-tip extensions are a non-damaging way to add length and fullness to hair. Compared to some wefts, the i-tip method allows for greater freedom of movement and increased comfort. However, ethically sourced and customized microlink i-tips for textured hair are not widely available, and many stylists have not been properly trained to install them.
At Milvali Extensions & Academy, Monti teaches stylists how to apply three methods of hair extensions safely and properly. To reach her goal, Monti is introducing microlink i-tip extensions for textured hair into her brand and to her academy's curriculum.
As part of this plan she is designing her own micro-link i-tips for women with textured hair. She has been taking natural hair and texturing it in a way that matches curl patterns, appears consistent and remains healthy.
“Let's get one thing straight here—women of color put extensions on the map!” Monti said. “Throughout my career, I have noticed a gaping hole when it [comes] to education and training of texturized microlink i-tips. We have to support and be inclusive to women of all walks of life. That is why I'm so passionate about this type of education.” She added, “I'm intent on making a superior product where the tips are small, reusable, not prone to shedding, and ethically sourced.”
