Can You Get an MRI with Hair Extensions? Here’s What You Need to Know
It’s one of the most common questions we get at Invisible Bead Extensions®:
“Can I still get an MRI if I have extensions in?”
The short answer? Yes — in many cases, you can. But the full answer depends on where your MRI is being done, what kind of extension beads you have, and how your stylist installed them. Let’s walk through exactly what you need to know so you can stay safe and confident before your scan.
Why MRI and Metal Don’t Always Mix
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnetic fields and radiofrequency (RF) energy to create detailed images inside the body.
That means any metallic object near the scan area can potentially cause heating where the metal may absorb RF energy, warming the surrounding skin or tissue, distortion when the presence of metal can interfere with the magnetic field, creating “artifacts” or blurring on the images or discomfort; patients sometimes feel pulling or tingling near metallic accessories.
In rare cases, there have even been reports of thermal injury from metallic beads placed directly on the scalp during MRI scans of the head and neck. These cases are extremely uncommon, but they highlight the importance of choosing safe materials and always informing your medical team before your scan.
Why IBE® Beads Are Different
At Invisible Bead Extensions®, our proprietary beads are non-magnetic and nickel-free, made from a custom aluminum-copper alloy designed for pliability and safety.
That matters, because:
Non-magnetic metals don’t interact with the MRI’s magnetic field the same way iron or steel do.
Flexible beads allow for movement without sharp edges or rigid loops that could concentrate heat.
Minimal bead placement (a hallmark of the IBE® method) means fewer points of metal contact near the scalp compared to traditional micro-bead or I-Tip methods.
Together, these features help reduce potential risks and they’re one of the many reasons stylists and clients trust IBE® for a scalp-safe, seamless install.
When You Can Usually Keep Your Extensions In
The general rule:
If your MRI is far from your scalp, it’s usually safe to leave your IBE® extensions in.
That includes scans of legs, knees, or feet, abdomen or pelvis, lower back or lumbar spine, any other area well below the head or neck. In these cases, your scalp (and any beads near it) are far enough from the scanner’s radiofrequency field to pose little to no risk.
However, if your MRI involves the head, neck, brain, or upper spine, your radiologist may ask you to remove the beads closest to that region before the scan. This ensures there’s no interference with image quality or unnecessary heat buildup during imaging.
What to Do Before Your MRI
Whether you’re a stylist helping a client prepare or a client scheduling your own MRI, here’s a step-by-step checklist to follow:
1. Identify the scan area
If it’s anywhere below the neck, good news! You’ll most likely be cleared to keep your extensions in.
2. Disclose your extensions early
When you fill out your MRI safety questionnaire, make sure to note: “I have hair extensions with non-magnetic aluminum-copper beads.” That simple statement helps your radiology team understand what materials they’re working with.
3. Confirm with your doctor or MRI technologist
Ask directly: “Is my scan close enough to my scalp that these could cause an issue?”
Every facility has its own safety protocols, and the final decision should always come from a medical professional.
4. Remove beads only if required
If removal is recommended, you don’t have to uninstall your entire set. Your stylist can carefully take out just the beads in the scan area and reinstall them later.
5. Speak up during the scan
If you feel any warmth or discomfort near your scalp, tell the technologist immediately. They’ll stop the scan and assess what’s happening.
Common Questions We Hear
“Will my extensions heat up in the MRI?”
Because IBE® beads are non-magnetic and small, the risk of heating is very low, especially for scans away from the scalp.
“Could they ruin the MRI image?”
Possibly, if the beads are directly in the scan area (like the head or upper neck). That’s why open communication with your MRI team is so important.
“If I have to remove some beads, will I need to redo my whole install?”
Not necessarily. Your stylist can remove and replace only the section needed, typically just one row without affecting your full install.
The Bottom Line: Always Check With Your Doctor
Even with the safest materials, no one should ever skip consulting their doctor or radiologist before an MRI. Your provider may use different equipment or magnetic field strengths, and they’ll know whether your specific scan area poses any risk.
So remember these three things:
IBE® beads are non-magnetic and nickel-free.
Localized MRIs (far from your scalp) are generally safe.
Always consult your medical team first.
For Stylists: Educate and Empower Your Clients
If you’re an IBE®-certified stylist, this is a great conversation to have with your clients during consultation or maintenance. Explain the materials you use, share this article with them, and remind them that safety is always a priority.
Not yet certified? Learn more about IBE® training and how we design every part of our method — from bead engineering to installation technique — with your clients’ health and comfort in mind.
Learn about IBE® Certification →
Disclaimer:
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
Always consult with your doctor, radiologist, or MRI technologist before undergoing any imaging procedure.
