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The Cost of Extensions Part 1 | How and Why Salons Charge

Written by Christopher Box
Published on May 31, 2011

The most popular question we get in the salon is: What is the cost of extensions and how much are extensions? There are several things that go into the final cost of any hair extensions.

You will have two basic charges: The application cost and the upkeep cost.

The application cost consists of 4 things:
1. Cost of hair,
2. Cost of application
3. Cutting/Styling
4. Products to maintain the hair.

The cost of extensions upkeep can vary depending upon what type of extensions you get. Upkeep can be as little as $100 all the way up to half of the original service. Some hair extensions may need to be maintained every 4 weeks. Others can be from 6-8 weeks. Ask about these costs up front. A less expensive set up extensions may cost you more in upkeep charges.

The brand of hair extensions also determines part of that overall cost of extensions. Yet this can be misleading as some brands are very expensive due to the power of the marketing machine behind their name. Great Lengths  and Hairdreams are two examples. They know that consumers will automatically think they are bigger and better based on the fact that they have to pay more for them. They do offer great hair but some would argue that they are overpriced.

Two of my favorite brands, Klix Hair Extensions and Easilengths by easihair pro offer a great application method. They are moderately priced as far as hair extensions go but they are two of the best out there in terms of overall quality.

A general rule to keep in mind: Just because it is expensive does not mean it is the best. However, there is just no getting around that good human hair is not cheap. Generally, quality human hair will start about $250.00. This is just for the cost of hair. Anything less than this is probably going to give you nothing but trouble in the end. Beware of $50 hair. It is bad news!

Be cautious of stylists that drop the words virgin european hair. This type of extension is very rare, hard to get, and if available extremely expensive.

The cost of the salon visit will vary depending upon how much is charged for the application of the extensions. Some stylists charge a great deal for their time and others don’t. You should check around to see what the going rate is in your location. A good extension salon will have a menu with application pricing and upkeep charges. No one likes surprises.

If you are dealing with a true professional you will get a care regimen when you leave. Most reputable extension manufacturers offer a limited warranty that require specific care. At my salon we guarantee the quality of the hair and the actual application for a period of time as long as proper care is maintained.

So, what is the cost of extensions? The anwer: It just depends! I know, I know, a terrible answer! Don't worry, I won't leave you hanging.. I own a salon that specializes in hair extensions and for the most part we believe in providing up front pricing.

Here is a link to what the cost of extensions are at my salon, The Beauty Box in Dallas, TX. It will give you a ballpark figure of what to expect.

Take your time and ask lots of questions. Good things tend to cost a bit more. A bit of research can save a lot of headache in the future.

The Cost of Extensions - Part 2: Three Salons Tell Just How Much They Charge

The Cost of Extensions - Part 3: More Salons Reveal Pricing

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