Hair extensions are an amazing invention, allowing you to add volume and length to your hair, which you may be naturally lacking. But, extensions can be a large purchase, especially if you want good quality ones that last.
If you’re considering hair extensions, but want more information on how much they tend to cost, this article is for you. I’ve explained the different types of extensions, how the cost varies between each, and even given tips on how to lower the cost.
Covered in this Article:
Salon vs Private Hair Extensions
The price of hair extensions will all depend on what type of hair extensions you go for. In salons, there are many different hair types available depending on the look that you’re going for. Hair salon prices will also depend on where in the country you are, and how ‘high-end’ the salon is.
For example, salons in big cities such as London and Manchester are likely to be more expensive, with prices starting at around £600, compared to around £350 in the midlands. If you go to a salon, you’re more likely to get the ‘pamper’ experience when compared to going private.
However, going private may be a slightly cheaper option, whilst still getting the same quality hair extensions. With mobile hairdressers, they don’t have to pay for salon rent and bills as well as the complimentary drinks, so they can afford to lower their prices.
There are plenty of great mobile hairdressers that do hair extensions too, plus you’re more likely to build a rapport and be comfortable telling them exactly what you want as you will be able to talk to them directly rather than having to go through the salon.
Mobile hair extensions tend to be £100-£200 cheaper than getting it done in a salon, but it again depends on the area you live and exactly what it is you want.
If you decide to go private, ensure that you have all the information that you are looking for before you agree. Ensure that they are fully qualified and insured and try and get some reviews for their services, as this information is not likely to be as readily available as it would with a mainstream salon.
How Much Are Hair Extensions In The UK?
There are so many different types of hair extensions, it’s difficult to give an average price. In this section, I’ll go into more detail about the different types and costs for each one.
Temporary vs Permanent
Temporary hair extensions include clip-in wefts and weaves which are all large sections of hair. They come with the clips already attached to them, so they are the safest way to get voluminous and long hair as they can be taken out and put in as you wish.
Permanent hair extensions are exactly that, permanent. They are put into your hair by a licensed professional and are made to be treated just like your natural hair. They can be washed with shampoo and conditioner and even styled with straighteners and curlers, as long as you use heat protection.
Some permanent types of hair extensions are reusable and can last up to a year with salon maintenance, whereas some need to be replaced every 4-6 months.
The prices will depend on many different factors, which are listed below.
Hair Length
Hair extensions come in different lengths and are usually measured in inches.
| 10 Inches | Around shoulder length |
| 12 Inches | Just below the shoulders |
| 14 Inches | Approximately just above the bra strap |
| 16 Inches | Around bra strap length |
| 18 Inches | A couple of inches below the bra strap |
| 20 inches | Around waist length |
There are also hair extensions that go up to 40”, but some salons may not do up to this length because it requires more maintenance.
The longer the length of extension and the more extensions needed will vary the price. It can be priced per extension, with 14” extensions being around £8-£10 per extension, to 20” being around £13-15 per extension.
The average person needs about 50 extensions for volume and 100 for length. Bear in mind that this price does not include VAT or service charge and will vary on the type of extension too.
Who Is Doing The Hair?
The cost of hair extensions will depend on who is actually doing them, especially when it comes to getting them done in a salon. Senior hair stylists with more qualifications and experience will be more expensive.
However, if you choose to get a junior stylist to do your extensions, you’re likely to save a bit of money as they’re still in training, but they will have a senior stylist overlooking their work – so you’ll still get a quality hair service.
The Quality of Hair Used
Another price point will be the quality of hair used, synthetic or real hair. Synthetic hair tends to be at least £200 cheaper than human hair extensions, but synthetic hair comes with its disadvantages too. Synthetic hair tends to not last as long as humans, with its maximum lifespan being 3-4 months. Synthetic hair extensions cannot be reused either.
Most synthetic hair will melt when it is styled with heat, so you can’t blow dry, straighten or curl it. It also doesn’t tend to last as long as human hair does. However, synthetic hair doesn’t tend to frizz when exposed to humidity or rain, so if you’re happy with your hair being set in one style then this type of extension may be a good option for you!
The Type Of Attachment
Tape-In Extensions
Tape-ins are attached at the root of the hair using a bond that looks similar to sellotape. This means that the extension can lie completely flat and they usually last 6-8 weeks.
Sew-In Extensions (weave)
With this method, your hair is tightly braided from ear to ear and the extensions are then sewn into the braid. These extensions tend to last around 6 months.
Fusion Extensions
This type uses keratin to fuse the extension to your natural hair. Heat is used on the keratin to soften it and attach it to your natural hair. Once cooled, the keratin hardens again which creates a strong bond that means the extensions can last up to 6 months.
Micro Bonds
This attachment method uses different types of hoops and beads to fix the extensions to the natural hair follicle. A small loop is used to pull the extension through the natural hair and then a metal bead is used to attach it.
Clip-Ins
Clip-in extensions come with the clip attached to the weft of the extension, and are simply clipped into the layer of hair. These are the least permanent extension, but also give you the opportunity to switch your look around when you fancy it.
Take a look at the table below for an average price of extension, depending on the attachment method. Please note that this is just an average based on shorter extension lengths and does not include salon service charges or location averages.
| Type of Extension: | Tape-Ins | Sew-In | Fusion Bonds | Micro Bonds | Clip-Ins |
| Average Price (not including service) | £400 | £350 | £500 | £650 | £200 |
Lowering Your Costs For Hair Extensions
There are a few ways to lower the cost for your hair extensions. As mentioned above, choosing to go to a mobile or private hairdresser can lower your cost significantly, as can going to a junior stylist and choosing a certain type of attachment.
There is even the option of sourcing the extensions for yourself, there are plenty of online sites that sell both synthetic and virgin hair without any form of attachment.
You can then either sew in the clips yourself, or take them to the salon and get them to attach them for you, though it’s best to check to see if your local salon offers this service before you commit to purchase.
This can lower the cost as you won’t be paying the salon price for extensions, you’ll only be paying the service charge for attachment. If you choose to go for this method, make sure you research the extensions thoroughly before committing.
Something to consider is that a lot of the time, if you follow the right aftercare and maintenance steps, hairdressers can often reuse hair extensions at your next visit. This means that you will only pay for the extensions and service the first time you go, each time thereafter will save you a significant amount of money, almost half in some cases!
Some salons even offer monthly payment options with extensions, as they know it’s a big sum. This allows you to pay a sum upfront, usually around half of the full price and then pay the rest monthly.
After reading this article, I hope you found the information you were looking for. There is no straight answer when it comes to the price of hair extensions and if you’re unsure it’s best to look around before committing to anything.