How Much Do Hair Extensions Cost?
Getting hair extensions can add up fairly quick as there are many factors the need to be included in the price if you’re thinking about getting them done. Factors such as the company performing it, the quality of the hair, the type as well as the length and more all come into play.
How much do hair extensions cost?
On average, the cost of hair extensions will depend on the type you want, quality, the salon you choose, the amount of hair you have and the geographical location. Extensions can be as little as $300 to more than $3,500. For example, a popular method, such as the keratin bond extensions, can cost $700 to $1,800, while some stylists may simply charge $3 to $5 per strand. The average head needs about 200 to 250 strands to put it in perspective.
The first item that affects the price will be the type of hair. On the market, there are five types of hair: synthetic, non-remy, remy human hair, remy human hair with the cuticle and virgin cuticle hair. The higher the quality, the longer the hair lasts. Synthetic hair is a low quality fake hair, while real human hair will come in various forms.
| Type of Hair Extensions | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Babe Hair Extensions Cost | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Cold Fusion Hair Extensions Cost | $1,500 to $2,500 |
| Dream Catchers Hair Extensions Cost | $500 to $1,500 |
| Fusion Hair Extensions Cost | $1,000 to $2,500 |
| Great Lengths Hair Extensions Cost | $800 to $1,200 |
| Hotheads Hair Extensions Cost | $800 to $1,100 |
| Keratin Hair Extensions Cost | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| Klix Hair Extensions Cost | $500 to $800 |
| Micro Bead Hair Extensions Cost | $250 $450 |
| So Cap Hair Extensions Cost | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Tape in Hair Extensions Cost | $500 to $800 |
Hair extensions overview
A consultation should be included in the beginning. This is generally a free analysis to give a good estimate on what the whole process is going to run cost-wise.
Extensions can be done in various ways. They can be braided in, glued in, woven in or clipped in. Depending on the method, most jobs will take three to six hours to complete.
Include with the cost should be the hair and labor. Every salon will have its own billing policies.
After the extensions are 100% done, a salon may include complimentary hair products.
What are the extra costs?
An extra application may be needed in the near future after the first application is done. Remember, hair extensions don’t last forever.
Some products may be required such as special shampoos.
To get them removed in the future, this will be an additional cost as well since it can take up to two hours to do so.
As the regular hair grows, a haircut may be needed. This will be the cost of a normal haircut. Most extensions won’t last more than six months.
Adding highlights or styling the hair as if it were a haircut can be an additional cost.
Types of hair extensions:
Clip-in
Known as a damage free option, this method can be applied within minutes, but you should keep in mind it’s a temporary solution. As the name notes, these extensions simply clip in the hair and last more than a year if taken care of properly.
Fusion/Pre-Bonded Micro extensions
This method will be installed strand by strand, and it can take hours to apply. Also known as fusion extensions, these extensions will be fused on the actual hair using a hot tool. Since these methods are installed by the strand, it can be very expensive. This method also requires a lot of upkeep and appointments. These methods last up to six months.
Tape-in
These extensions are the most requested methods at most salons. This method uses real human hair and can add length and/or volume. Lasting about three months, this application is quick and will last no more than 60 minutes.
Tips to know:
Always make sure the person performing the extensions is a licensed cosmetologist. This will work to your advantage since they will be trained for the process.
Always be sure to work with a procedure they know. Most will practice one type of procedure, so it may not be ideal to go outside of their comfort zone.
Talk with at least two to three different salons to see what they can do. Most will be more than happy to give an estimate over the phone.
Extensions can do more than just add length; they can add volume as well.
Before getting your hair extensions, know what they are made of. As noted above, the quality of the hair is extremely important since cheaper synthetic hair can only last months, while real virgin hair can last years.
Watch the weight or the hair since heavier hair can cause the strands to break off.
Hair extensions pros and cons
| Pro | Cons |
|---|---|
| It can add length and volume. | As you can see with the prices above, the costs can be in the hundreds or thousands. |
| You're able to add color and any chemicals like it's your own hair. | You will have to take great care of the hair to make sure it's worth your investment. |
| It can make your hairstyle look a lot different. | Adding more hair means you have more hair to work with each morning when you get ready. |
| The hair is real - you can style it as if you grew it naturally. | It can take a while to get used to it if you have never had them before. |
| Make your dreams a reality. If you see a style you like online, a stylist can make it work. | For the first few days, your hair can feel heavier. |
| Looks natural and no one will notice they are extensions. | You may be at the salon for hours. |
| If taken care of, they can last a long time. | Some glues and adhesives may be unhealthy for your hair. |
| Some methods are 100% safe. | Fusion hair extensions may get damaged if you use a hair dryer often. |
| May not last long if you don't take care of it properly. This could be a big loss if you spent $1,000+ |
How can I save money?
Compare at least three salons. When talking with them, look at before and after pictures, and ask about the stylist’s credentials. All states don’t require licenses.
Check for various discount cards. Many salons offer frequent member cards, and also assist senior citizens with discounts as well.
Look into going to a beauty school. Many schools will do many services for a fraction of the costs.
Some salons will allow you to bring extensions into their salon. Consider purchasing the hair extensions outside of the salon and bringing them in. By doing this, you should be able to save a few extra dollars. Make sure you call ahead of time to make sure you can do something like this.
Consider doing it yourself. While the process can be tricky, there are many hair extension kits on the market. Most of these run a little more than $100. Clip-on extensions are the cheapest option since they can be taken off within minutes.
Some stylists may offer a complimentary touch-up down the road or initial haircut. Speak with your stylist to see if any offers are available.
What it will generally cost:
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Average Reported Cost: $0
