Discover hair extensions

Discover hair extensions

We've all, at some point, admired an extra-long mane and wondered whether it was really natural. Then we sighed, touching our tired ends. Wait years to finally get the length we dream of? Not for us. So let's admit it: hair extensions are tempting — as long as you know what you're getting into.

How does it actually go on?

The principle is simple: strands of the length you choose are attached at the root of your hair using a specific technique. Depending on the method — keratin bonds, rings, weaving — the technique differs, but the idea stays the same. And so does the result: thickness, length, or both at once, depending on what you're looking for.

Some of the natural hair used in extensions comes from donations made at temples in India, but origins vary widely from one supplier to another. A detail that matters when you like to know where what you wear on your head comes from — and one worth a few questions to your hairdresser before you take the plunge.

When it comes to colour, it's not a random choice. Usually your hairdresser blends several shades within the same tones for a more natural melt and a luminous finish. Let's just say the result doesn't look like a wig plonked on top — the shade stays subtle, precisely because it's been carefully worked.

The appointment: a test of patience…

Fitting takes several hours and calls for real precision. Let's be honest: it's long. But once it's done, the result is strikingly natural. That famous 'how did you do it?' effect is well worth a few hours in the chair.

To make that lovely impression last, a maintenance appointment is often needed after a few weeks or months. The lifespan of extensions varies according to the method chosen, the quality of the hair and the care you give them. So it's worth checking in advance whether these visits are included in the initial price or charged extra — and also factor in a trip to the salon to readjust or reattach a strand that isn't holding well.

The habits that keep your strands lovely

It's not all down to the salon. A few simple habits help you keep your extensions looking good for longer: brushing gently without tugging on the bonds, avoiding high heat from the hairdryer or straighteners, and following your hairdresser's advice. In other words, a little kindness to the strands living with you — no rough detangling, no excessive heat.

Which of us hasn't dreamt of long, silky hair… in a single day? Some have hair that makes length hard to achieve (too fine, damaged…), others have cut it short and would love to see it long without waiting years. Would you like that too? Well, you now know it's possible — as long as you're prepared for the patience of the fitting, the maintenance and the quote.

Budget

When it comes to budget, everything is counted per strand, and the bill adds up fast: expect around £300 to £1,000 for a full fitting by a professional, sometimes more depending on the length you want, the quality of the hair and the attachment method. City, range and salon also affect the price. Always ask for a quote before you commit, checking exactly what's included — the fitting, the adjustments and the removal. A recommendation from a friend, or a salon whose work has been praised, often helps you choose on trust as much as on price.

To work out where to go, start with the salon where you already get your hair cut: ask for a no-obligation hair consultation to assess which method would suit your hair type. Finally, if your hair is fine or your scalp reactive, a dermatologist's opinion before the fitting can prevent plenty of discomfort — hair health first, length second.

Enough to turn a passing crush into a properly considered choice you can stand behind.