Why can metal in hair extensions be a problem?
An MRI scanner operates with a very strong magnetic field and radio waves. Metal parts in hair extensions can:
- be influenced by the magnetic field;
- heat up during the examination;
- cause a pulling or uncomfortable sensation;
- distort the MRI images;
- make important structures less visible during an MRI of the head, neck, or throat.
Metal that is close to the scalp deserves extra attention. With certain extensions, it is not immediately visible from the outside that the attachment contains metal.
Which hair extensions may contain metal?
Metal parts may be found in:
- clip-in extensions;
- micro-ring extensions;
- nano-ring extensions;
- microbead extensions;
- I-tip or I-link extensions;
- beaded wefts;
- wefts affixed with metal beads;
- extensions with metal threads, clips, or closures;
- hairpieces, toppers, and wigs with metal clips.
Even when a bead is coated with silicone on the outside, there may be metal underneath. Therefore, do not rely solely on the appearance of the attachment.
Do clip-in extensions need to be removed for an MRI?
Yes. Clip-in extensions typically contain metal clips and must be removed before the MRI scan.
Preferably do this at home. This prevents delays and ensures that all clips are removed before you enter the MRI room.
Do microrings, nanorings, and microbeads need to be removed?
Extensions attached with microrings, nanorings, or microbeads may contain metal components. These attachments are also close to the scalp.
According to the recommended safety guidelines, extensions with such metal attachments should be removed before the MRI. Have this done in advance by your hairdresser or extension stylist; do not attempt to forcefully remove tightly attached rings shortly before the appointment.
Can tape-in extensions stay in place?
Tape-in extensions are usually affixed with glue and do not always contain metal. However, you should report them beforehand. Additional components may have been used and the composition is not always clear.
During an MRI of the head, neck, or throat, even metal-free extensions may affect positioning or image quality. The MRI technician must therefore assess in advance whether they can remain in place.
What about keratin and fusion extensions?
Keratin and fusion extensions are generally attached to your own hair with small bonds. The exact composition may vary by brand and method.
Ask your stylist if there is metal left in the bonds, attachments, or tools. Provide this information to Prescan in advance. The MRI technician determines if the extensions can remain in place during the examination.
Can sewn-in wefts or weaves go in the MRI?
That depends on the attachment. A weave or weft may be sewn in, but may also be secured with beads, clips, or other parts. Some of these components contain metal.
Therefore, not only ask if the hair itself is metal-free, but especially how the weft is attached to the natural hair. If metal beads, rings, clips, or threads are used, they must be removed before the MRI.
Does this apply to every MRI scan?
Metal components are relevant for every MRI scan. The chance of image distortion is particularly high when metal is close to the body part being examined.
Hair extensions are therefore especially relevant during an MRI of:
- the head and brain;
- the neck vessels;
- the neck or upper spine;
- the face or surrounding structures.
What should I check before my appointment?
Ask your hairdresser or extension stylist:
- What type of extensions do I wear?
- How are the extensions attached?
- Do the clips, rings, beads, bonds, or threads contain metal?
- What material are the attachments made of?
- Can the extensions be safely removed before the MRI?
- When can they be reapplied after the examination?
Provide this information to Prescan before your appointment. A statement from a salon is useful background information, but the MRI technician ultimately decides if the examination can proceed according to the Prescan protocol.
What if I don't know if my extensions contain metal?
Do not test the extensions yourself with a magnet to see if they are magnetic. Such a home test does not provide a reliable result about MRI safety and can damage the extensions or scalp.
Contact the salon where the extensions were applied. If they cannot confirm the composition, contact Prescan well before the MRI appointment. Do not wait until you are in the clinic, as the examination may need to be rescheduled if safety cannot be established.
What if my extensions cannot be removed in time?
Contact Prescan as soon as possible. Mention:
- the type of extensions;
- the attachment method;
- the material used;
- which body part is being examined;
- whether the extensions can be removed by a professional.
The MRI technician can then determine whether the appointment can proceed or needs to be rescheduled.
Can I wear hair clips, bobby pins, or a wig?
Metal hair clips, bobby pins, and other metal hair accessories must be removed before the MRI.
If you wear a wig, topper, or hairpiece, report it in advance. Some models contain metal clips, threads, or other fasteners.
