The Different Types of Hair Beads

I've always seen past the conventionality of what an item known use is, and how I see use in the item, and well with hair beads, my vision is no different.

Wooden and acrylic hair beads are vastly sought after, but metal, glass, and even fabric beads are viable options. While you can achieve an infinity of looks within the array of materials beads are offered, there is certainly pros and cons to them all. Whether you're looking for ultimate longevity or ultimate chic, knowing the types of beads and what they offer will help you make the best decision to fit your needs.
 

Acrylic Beads

@justineskye

Although all acrylic beads are plastic, not all plastic is acrylic, so it's common to see these terms interchanged with this material of beads. Smooth to the touch inside and out, they are forgiving to your hair cuticles. "Pony Beads" are the holy grail for tons of acrylic bead lovers. From colors, to shapes, and even sizes, acrylic beads are available in a multitude of choices. Widespread, pony beads allows for a competitive market and consumer happy prices. Pony beads are a top choice for many bead wearers but acrylic beads in general can produce very unique finds.

Pro’s

• Competitively priced (pony beads in particular)
• Availability
• Smooth finishes
• Unique Finds

Con’s

• Ordinary (pony beads in particular)

 

Wooden Beads

@crown_couture_

Wooden hair beads are great for those who appreciate wearing natural materials that are biodegradable. A woods soft trait (in comparison to other bead materials), allows for scratching, indentation, and other imperfections to be prevalent. Seen as having character, these "imperfections" are features appreciated by wooden hair bead lovers. Lightweight, wooden hair beads allows for an abundance in use.

Pro's

• Natural material
• Lightweight
• Individual characteristics

Con's

• Unsmooth
• Variety

 

Metal Beads

Not often utilized as hair beads, metal material is durable and strong. The durability extends to the the structure as a bead, but tarnishing can be a hinderance depending on how the metal is finished. Heavier than other bead options available, metal beads are best used on larger braids or even dreadlocks. Metal hair beads can create a wow factor, and are great to use as accent pieces.

Pro's

• Rare (use)
• Durability

Con's

• Heavier
• Tarnishing

 

Glass Beads

@renellaice

Seen as unconventional for a "hair bead" this material is generally overlooked because, glass breaks! Overall, glass is generally a heavier material than other hair bead alternatives, so worn day to day may be challenging for some. With that being said, elegant and luxurious vibes are evident so there's no wonder why this material of hair bead is chosen amongst those who want something aesthetically appealing for that special occasion.

Pro's

• Luxurious
• Rarity

Con's

• Heavier
• Durability
• Cost

 

Fabric Beads

Super lightweight, comfort is achieved with a fabric material bead. Flexible in nature, fabric hair beads allow for high endurance activities, like sports, and low endurance ones, like sleep, without noticing they are there. Due to the larger circumference of the hole, these boldly printed and colored beads are often found as adornments in dreadlocks.

Pro’s

• Natural materials
• Lightweight
• Unique Designs

Con’s

• Durability
• Exclusive to larger hair gatherings

 
In a nutshell, there are so many options when it comes down to embellishing your crown. Whether it’s a traditional hair bead or not, knowing what to expect from each material will make your experience more enjoyable.

Over my lifetime, I’ve found an appreciation for all the materials beads come in, and depending on the day I’m liable to wear them all.

@crown_couture_

So, what’s your hair bead type?