Looking to glam up your hairstyle with hair extensions but aren’t sure where to start? The first step is to find a professional and reliable salon that specializes in hair extensions.

When selecting a salon, it is vital that stylists are not only knowledgeable about hair extensions but also have professional experience, give you advice and guide you through the entire hair extension installation process. A professional quality salon will offer a preliminary consultation to new customers to discuss different types of hair extensions and decide which will work best for you.

Consultation

The consultation will allow you to assess the salon to make sure it is a good fit for you. It will also give you the opportunity to learn about all types of hair extension options from synthetic hair to real human hair and the installation process. The stylist will help you determine what type of extension will work best for you by asking about your personal hair concerns, including what you like and dislike about it; your work and lifestyle and how that impacts your hairstyle; how much time you spend on your hair and how often you are comfortable coming into the salon.

During the consultation, the hairstylist or technician should tell you about their hair extension experience, the quality of hair the salon uses or possibly let you see the different kinds they offer and the different types of hair extension installation processes.

Quality of hair extensions

The quality of hair extensions is linked to the longevity of the product, a more natural look, and less shedding. A high-quality salon will only use real human hair that has not been colored or processed and the hairstylist will custom make every single strand to best match your hair type, length, color, and desired look.

Types of hair used in extensions

There are myriad types of hair that can be used in hair extensions. Be cautious of salons offering synthetic hair over real human hair. Real human hair will give you a better result, look more natural and 100% human hair is durable enough to be used with any styling tools.

Premium salons will offer 100% human Remy hair extensions as it is the highest grade of real human hair. The salon will also source hair extensions from verified distributors usually based in India or China. The use of 100% Remy hair extensions ensures the hair extension’s health and color are preserved and easily blend with your natural hair adding volume, length, and thickness.

How long do hair extensions last?

The longevity of hair extensions depends on their durability, quality, and proper care. A reputable salon should provide high-quality hair extensions and give instructions on how to properly care for and maintain your hair extensions. Hair extensions do require more attention than your natural hair but with the right care, you can reuse your hair extensions multiple times.

Type of hair extensions

There are many types of hair extensions ranging from clip in, tape in, cold fusion, hot fusion extensions and more. Some hair extensions are better suited for different types of hair than others. The salon you choose should help you decide what hair extension and installation process will work best for your hair and lifestyle.

Clip-in hair extensions allow you to wear your hair extensions whenever you like as they can be easily applied and removed. High-quality clip-in hair extensions, such as clip-in Remy hair extensions, last longer since they are not worn every day and are not washed along with your natural hair. Clip-in hair extensions are less of a commitment as they are not permanent and can be applied and removed in minutes. The clip in hair extension method is low maintenance and usually offered within an affordable price range.

Tape in hair extensions are more hands-on compared to clip-ins and more permanent. Tape in hair extensions blends in with your natural hair. Your natural hair is sandwiched between two taped hair extensions and lies flat against your head. Tape-in extensions do require more commitment as they cannot be removed on a whim but are easily maintained and can be washed and styled along with your natural hair. The salon should advise you to avoid alcohol-infused hair products as it can damage the tape in hair extension adhesive and cause the extension to fall out. It is recommended to have a qualified hair stylist to help you remove your tape in hair extensions to avoid damage to your natural hair.

Cold fusion hair extensions are threaded to your natural hair via a micro ring. Then a small amount of hair extension is inserted to the ring which is finally clamped flat to attach to your natural hair. Although this method is more time-consuming compared to clip-in and tape-in extensions it lasts longer, does not require heat or glue and is lightweight. Cold hair infusion extensions do require extra salon time for recurring adjustments about once a month.

Hot fusion hair extensions utilize keratinized protein bonds and heat to attach pre bonded hair bundles to your natural hair shaft with low heat. The salon should caution you about not overheating the hair extensions with a flat iron or curling iron and only wash your hair about 2-3 times per week to help the hair extensions perform better.

The different types and quality of hair extensions will vary in price but the salon should help guide you to the right hair extensions in your price range and provide proper care technique information.

Cost of hair extensions

A good salon will have clear set prices on its website, premise, or both. Expect higher prices for high-quality hair extensions as superior salons will offer real human hair. Be wary of salons that utilize synthetic hair over real human hair, even if prices are lower. Lower prices signal an inferior quality product, an unwanted end result and possible damage to your natural hair.

Quality hair extensions should not cause damage to your natural hair and should be comfortable. After the installation of your hair extensions, you will surely notice you have more hair, but it should not cause pain or discomfort. If your hair extensions become uncomfortable go back to your stylist to have them repositioned.

The health of your natural hair is important so don’t take any risks and seek out a professional salon that will prioritize the health of your hair by offering quality hair extensions, expert installation, and guidance on how to properly care for your hair extensions.