Hair Extensions Cost

• A partial head of hair extensions typically costs between $150 and $300, plus the cost of the hair. Total cost ranges from $400 to $800.
• A full head of hair extensions (for fullness only) typically costs between $300 and $600, plus the cost of the hair. Total cost ranges from $1,300 to $1,600.
• A full head of hair extensions for fullness and added length typically costs $600 to $1500 and up, plus the cost of the hair. Total cost ranges from $1,600 to $4,000.
• High-quality human hair that is cut -- not brushed -- off usually costs from $250 to $500 for a partial head and $1,000 to $2,500 for a full head, depending on length and origin. Synthetic hair and low-quality human hair, which are not recommended, cost much less.

• The stylist will schedule an initial consultation to assess your hair and discuss to desired results and cost.
• Bonding methods include braiding, weaving, sewing and fusion, in which the hair comes coated at the tips with a substance that, when heated, bonds with your own hair.
• If necessary, the hair extensions will be color matched to your own hair.
• At the appointment, the stylist will trim your hair and then use the chosen method to attach the hair extensions. Depending on the method and how many extensions are being applied, this can take anywhere from two to six hours. After application, the stylist will trim the hair for a blended look.

• Some bonding techniques require regular application of a product to keep the bond in good shape, for about $20 per month.
• As hair grows, extensions need to be trimmed. This costs about the same as a traditional haircut.
• Color touch-ups are sometimes necessary on extensions; this can cost $50 or more
• As hair grows, hair extensions will need to be taken out and reapplied; hair extensions usually last an average of four to six months. This re-application will cost as much as the first for labor, but high-quality human hair usually can be reused.
• Removal, which can take an hour or two, usually costs the stylist's hourly rate, unless new extensions are being applied.

• Some salons will charge an hourly rate to apply extensions you buy yourself; however, it usually is a better idea to purchase hair through a licensed hairdresser.
• Using a "weft" -- a grouping of hairs that have been sewn together in a seam -- is generally quite a bit cheaper than strand-by-strand hair extensions, but tends not to look as natural or allow as much versatility.
• Clip-in hair extensions can be used for an inexpensive, temporary style; a stylist can show you how to put them in and take them out.
• Some salons offer discounts for senior citizens or cancer survivors.

• Tip: First, make sure you are a good candidate for hair extensions. People who are losing a lot of hair, who have allergies to certain chemicals or who are not willing to make regular trips to the salon are not. Rolfs-Salon.com provides a self-quiz on hair extension suitability.
• Find a salon by asking for a list of certified stylists from a reputable company that supplies quality human hair extensions. Popular companies include Hairlocs, Great Lengths and Hairdreams.
• Tip: After you have found a salon, schedule a consultation to get an accurate price estimate. Ask to see before-and-after photographs of previous hair extension clients; a reputable stylist should always have a portfolio and also should be certified by the company that provides the hair extension system they use.
• Before getting hair extensions done, it is important to ask for a written price quote and guarantee. This is standard practice at reputable salons.

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