How Much Do Tree Braids Cost?
Tree braids, a popular hairstyle that involves using a natural or synthetic hair extension, is a style where the braids and knots are used to hold the hair extensions in place instead of chemicals, needles, or heat. The final results create a fuller look by creating smaller and tighter knots.
How much do tree braids cost?
Depending on the number of braids that need to be done and the stylist completing the job, plan on budgeting anywhere from $50 to $100 for a partial job or around $200 to $325 for a complete service of hair braids. This estimate won’t include the price of the hair extensions.
Your Natural Image Natural Hair Care Salon based in Kansas City, Missouri, for example, quoted $150 to $200 and claimed the braids could last six to eight weeks with proper care.
At DP Hair Visions, another hair salon based in Portsmouth, Virginia, tree braid cornrows would cost $165 to $200, while individual tree braids would cost $180 to $260. The prices would vary for clients with natural hair or very thick and long hair.
Factors that affect the price
Hair extension type
Two types of hair extensions can be used with tree braiding: human or synthetic hair. Human hair extensions will almost always cost more than synthetic extensions because they are more durable and there are no limitations when it comes to styling. Synthetic hair can be bought in different textures and colors, but the styling it is limited to a few options and it cannot be heated, curled or straightened.
Experience
Compared with less experienced hair stylists, professional stylists who are more knowledgeable and hold more experience usually quote higher rates when rendering their services.
Styling
Tree braiding costs can also be affected by the kind of styling done on the braids. These will also depend on whether human hair or synthetic extensions are used as these two types require different kinds of styling, with the latter having more restrictions.
Time
If the stylist needs more time on your tree braids when compared to the average job, you may have to pay more for the extra time. Generally, this applies to those who have longer and/or thicker-than-average hair.
Tree braids overview
The tree braid method involves corn-rows that weave the hair without using glue or thread. The hair extensions are then placed appropriately to add volume and length to a client’s existing hairstyle.
Tree braids, depending on the factors mentioned above, generally takes anywhere from two to five hours to complete.
In general, tree braids last four to six weeks with proper care, with many clients getting their hair re-done at six weeks. Micro tree braids, which are practically invisible, can last up to eight weeks.
What are the extra costs?
If you want to keep the look, plan on re-braiding your hair at least every six to 10 weeks. These re-braiding sessions will cost just as much as the estimates mentioned above; however, some stylists may offer a slight discount if you’re a returning customer.
Additional fees may apply if you were to go back to a stylist to remove your braids.
With some hair salons, the smaller and/or longer the braids and twists are, the more they will cost. This is due to the time and effort necessary to finish a more complicated tree braiding session.
Hair extensions, whether human hair or synthetic, are typically not included in the price and will need to be purchased separately. Tree braids are just the way that the extensions are connected. On average, you need two to three packs for desirable results.
Most hair stylists expect a tip after their services are complete. Plan on tipping 10 to 20 percent of the total cost.
Tips to know:
Avoid using products like hair gel and hairspray on the actual braids as this can result in a buildup of residue. Also, do not use heat on synthetic hair as this can cause damage; instead, use the cool setting on your blow dryer for best results.
Choose a hair stylist that specializes in African-American hair and braiding and not just cornrows. Experienced professionals will ideally explain the process, provide a price estimate, and give an estimate on how long the tree braiding procedure will take. They should also be able to provide before and after pictures of people whose hair they have previously done to show you the results you should expect.
While tree braiding can be done on different types of hair, it often works best on thick and kinky hair.
While any hair can work with tree braids, the best hair for tree braids will be longer than 24 inches in order to be halved and braided. If your hair isn’t this long, then your stylist will more than likely recommend hair extensions.
Tree braiding pics
How can I save money?
- Coupons and online specials are offered for first time and even existing customers. Refer to a few salon websites or call to see if you can take advantage of any promotions.
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Average Reported Cost: $275
How much did you spend?
- Sandra M. (Atlanta, Georgia) paid $275 and said:
$275
Was it worth it? Yes
