There’s one question we get asked far more than any other questions when it comes to hair extensions.
The number one thing everyone wants (and needs) to know is what exactly is the ACTUAL investment of hair extensions.
We’ve found that there’s not a lot of information out there that really breaks down the cost of quality hair extensions, so we wanted to go ahead and lay it all out there for you. We never want anyone to feel like they don’t understand what’s involved or they aren’t prepared for both the time and cost commitment of hair extensions.
Before we break down the numbers, we wanted to talk a little bit about investment. Like so many things, hair extensions can range in quality in many ways. The quality of the hair itself, the quality of the method, along with the quality of the actual installment can all make a huge difference in both your experience and the cost of extensions. Here at Garnish, we have chosen to only work with the top brands within the industry of hair extensions.
Each brand that we work with guarantees the premium quality of their hair and is one of a few methods we consider to be the safest, most comfortable, and most natural looking. When it comes to the installment of extensions, the experience of your stylist is extremely important.
Our owner, Candice, has spent over a decade devoting countless hours and thousands of dollars into education for every method, honing her skills, and becoming truly expert level. Each of our stylists is committed to learning and growing in the same way, both from Candice in the studio and from external classes. Continuing education is vital within the hair industry in general, but especially in the growing world of hair extensions.
In addition to the quality of extensions, an important aspect of your investment in hair extensions is the time involved. For our studio, that means beginning with an in-person consultation, the time of your extension application, along with the time for your maintenance appointments. Our consultations are typically around 45 minutes. In addition to answering some questions that help us guide the rest of your consult, this time allows you to understand the details of extensions, really figure out what’s going to be the right fit for you, and answer any questions you might have. We consider this an absolutely vital step to your extension experience.
When you come in for your extensions application, there are typically one of two things happening. Either you have a color you already love and you’re just receiving extensions, or you’re getting a color revamp prior to your extension application. The color portion takes on average 2-3 hours, but if you are receiving a corrective color it could take longer. Your initial extension application averages between 1-3 hours depending on the method, amount of hair, and the stylist applying your extensions.
To ensure a great experience with hair extensions, you absolutely must commit to properly maintaining your extensions. Most methods require maintenance at around 6-8 weeks, give or take a week depending on your hair needs and hair growth. Each maintenance appointment takes on average 1-3 hours depending on the method, amount of hair, and the stylist performing your maintenance service. During your consultation, you can get a more accurate estimate of time for your particular services.
Alright, let’s dive in to the part you’re really here for—the financial investment of hair extensions.
When it comes to estimating the cost, it can be difficult to provide an accurate range due to how many factors can influence the price. The method of extensions, amount of hair, length of hair, texture of hair, and even color of the hair can alter the cost of the extensions. This is why extension stylists are so hesitant to give a quote or even ballpark prior to having an in-person consultation.
Here’s our best summary of the cost of extensions based on some general assumptions.
1. Looking to add volume, but not length, with average length of hair. For most methods that we offer, this is going to be somewhere around $1,200-$2,000. For example, this would be one row of NBR extensions.
2. Looking to add volume, and some length. This category can range a little more and will typically fall into the $1,800-$3,000 range. Most often when looking for volume and length, even if it’s not a signficant length difference, more hair is needed. Typically, this would be two rows of NBR extensions.
3. Looking for major volume and all the length aka bombshell hair. When long, luscious hair is your goal, the cost of investment is typically going to start around $3,000 and go up from there. This would be three rows of NBR extensions.
4. When you’re looking to address thinning, hair loss, or an area of concern, typically you will be in need of a Crown Extension. The cost of a crown extension can range quite a bit based on how customized it needs to be, but the average cost is going to be somewhere between $2,000-$3,500.
From our studio, every extension quote includes the actual extension hair, application of your extensions, custom color of the extensions, the blending cut, style, and 2 week follow up appointment. Any color to your natural hair is not included in your extensions quote.
The cost of maintenance varies based on the method of extensions, amount of hair, and the stylist’s level. Most methods start around $100. NBR extensions begin at $150 and go up from there based on the number of rows and stylist’s certification level. The quote you receive during your consultation will also include the cost of maintenance for your particular hair extensions. There’s also a feature of NBR Extensions worth mentioning in relation to investment.
Typically with hair extensions you invest in a full set, wear it for 3-6 months, and then get a whole new set. With NBR we have the ability to replace wefts of hair without replacing the entire set. What this looks like is at your maintenance appointment, you would add new hair (replacing the pieces in the worst condition), which revitalizes your set of extensions and extends the longevity of your full set. We have had guests go 9 months to up to a year before having to purchase a full new set just by strategically adding new pieces of hair along the way.
One last thing to note when it comes to the cost of hair extensions. Each of our stylists brings a different level of experience, expertise, and style to their extension services. We have a level system that differentiates these aspects, which also means each of our stylists has slightly different pricing. As the owner and extension expert, Candice’s pricing is going to be the most investment. We know that everyone has a different beauty budget and we want them to feel confident in choosing one of our other stylists for their transformation.
Our Creative Director, Niko, brings incredible artistry and attention to detail to her extension transformations. Our New Talent Stylist, Reece, does amazing extension maintenance services, and is currently completing his full transformation training. No matter whose chair you sit in, the Garnish Experience remains the same—our commitment to the highest quality of service and artistry is a studio standard.
If you have ANY questions about hair extensions, the investments required, or our process, please give us a call at (919)793-4008 or shoot us an email at info@garnish-studio.com.
