Hair extensions are one of the most popular beauty treatments on the market today. The demand for long, luscious locks is booming, and with so many different colours, styles and types of applications available now, both stylists and customers alike can let their creativity flow.
We are going to take you through the different types of hair extensions, how they are applied and how to set the best hair extension process cost for your services.
Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair extensions!
What are hair extensions?
Hair extensions are just what they say on the tin: a beauty treatment in which fake hair pieces are applied to a client’s natural hair, giving their overall look more length and volume.
Extensions are often used as a way to enhance a client’s existing hairstyle. However, they can also completely change up a person’s look, depending on the look and style they are going for.
There are so many options now in terms of hair extension application. Whether a client is looking for removable hair pieces or a more long-lasting treatment, the wide range of hair pieces on the modern market will see to it that any look is possible.
What types of hair extensions are there?
Hair extensions are not a ‘one size fits all’ kind of deal. Besides the obvious variations of length and colour, there are different options for hair extension application to consider, all involving different methods and hair extension products.
Tape-in extensions
With a lasting period of around 1-2 months, tape-in extensions are a great option for clients looking to add to and enhance their natural look. Tape-ins should not damage your hair and are considered more comfortable than other types of extensions.
The application process involves taping in and medically glueing extensions to sections of a client’s natural hair, slowly being added to the rest of the head to create the desired look. The process is tool and chemical free, making it a favourite of salon-goers across the country.
Sew-in extensions
These extensions are just what they say on the tin – a client’s hair is plaited into small braids, into which the extension pieces are then securely sewn. This type of extension is the perfect choice for anyone who is wanting to grow their natural hair due to the natural hair being tucked out of the way with these extensions whilst also reducing styling damage from heat tools and hair products.
6-8 weeks is the usual duration of sew-in extensions, making them a more long-lasting option. To avoid discomfort or hair damage, it is vital to have open communication between the client and the stylist so that the natural hair isn’t braided too tightly, putting tension on the scalp.
Clip-in extensions
The OG hair extension of choice for anyone who wants luscious locks by day and a rested scalp by night. The hair pieces are attached to a client’s natural hair with pressure-sensitive clips and can then be removed by the client themself before heading to bed.
These are a brilliant option for anyone wanting to change their look with ease rather than committing to more permanent, bonded hair extensions. And they won’t damage your natural hair. What a win!
Glue-in extensions
Hair extensions are glued to small sections of a client’s natural hair very close to the scalp.
While this is an efficient way of applying extensions, it does come with some risks. The glued-in extensions can pull on the scalp and cause tension, as well as block the hair follicles should glue get to the scalp.
Bonded extensions
Similarly to glued-in extensions, bonded wefts are applied to small sections of hair with a keratin bond, which, when heated, melts and secures the extension.
These extensions are long-lasting – usually around 6 months if cared for properly – and are perfect for clients who want a natural look to enhance their natural hair.
Halo extensions
Release your inner beauty angel with halo hair extensions. The application process for halo extensions involves placing a hair piece attached to a loop around your head, just like a halo!
Super quick and easy, these extensions are firm favourites of the beauty industry and salon-goers alike, creating full and voluminous looks wherever they are applied.
Our British neighbours over at Grazia go into even more detail about all things hair extensions.
Hair extension salon prices: how to price your hair extensions
When it comes to hair salon pricing, it is important to know the worth of the services you provide. Hair extension prices vary from salon to salon, and so whether you work for an existing salon or are setting up your own hair styling business, it is vital you ensure that the price is right.
In terms of how much hair extensions cost in New Zealand, Hair Extension technicians can charge between $500 – $800 per application. This can depend on the occasion, the length of the treatment and the number of extensions being applied.
We would always advise looking at the current market, as well as how other salons price their extension treatments, to help you create the best hair salon price list for your business.
Dream of working in a hair salon?
Are you interested in mastering the hair extension process? Think you might like to make a career out of it? We’ve got you covered.
At New Zealand Beauty School, we offer a Certificate in Hair Extensions, opening up a whole host of possibilities for creative hairstyling without having to wait for a client’s locks to reach Rapunzel-length proportions!
The benefits to studying a hair styling course online are endless – our 24/7 online learning system allows you the flexibility to work your studies around your schedule and get to grips with your craft from the comfort of your own home. We’ll even send you your own custom-made kit with everything you will need to get started – pretty neat, huh!
This comprehensive hair styling course will teach you the fundamental theoretical and practical skills that you will need in order to deliver high-quality, personalised services as a hair extension technician. You will master the different hair extension installation methods, as well as be equipped with essential hair extension aftercare and maintenance knowledge.
Our course includes lessons on:
- tape wefts
- custom tape design
- nanobeads
- microbeads
- flat-track wefts
- beaded wefts
- invisible wefts
- how to appropriately use and install fusion, braided wefts and temporary methods such as clip-ins, wigs and fringe pieces.
Hair extensions are becoming ever more popular, so why not take advantage of the rush and start your career off right with our Certificate in Hair Extensions?