Cost of Hair Extensions

In very general, ballpark figure way, here is a breakdown of the cost of extensions:

Partial Head of Hair: $300 - $800+

Full Head of Hair: $1300 - $4,000+

Clip in Hair Extensions: $20-$90+

Getting extensions is not cheap, unless you're a Hollywood star and since most of us aren't and we still yearn for long, thick locks -- we gotta pay the price. Hair extension cost depends on a lot of factors, so the ballpark figures above really can vary that much. Here is a breakdown of some of the major factors that will play a role in the overall cost of your extensions.

Type of Hair Being Used

This is one of the major factors in determining the cost of your extensions. There a lots of different types of hair that can be used and some are more expensive than others.

Human hair extensions are the most expensive type of extension, but within human hair extensions there are levels of quality. There is Remi or Remy hair that is a very good quality of hair which means that all the cuticles are uni-directional. There is virgin human hair meaning that the hair has never been chemically processed.

One of the most expensive type of hair available is Virgin Remy Human Hair. This is hair that has never been permed, dyed, highlighted, or otherwise chemically processed. The beauty of this type of hair is that the cuticles are all intact and are unidirectional. Having the cuticles in tact allow it to last longer. Having the cuticles all facing the same direction reduces the risk of matting and tangling.

If you are looking for just short term extensions, then consider human hair clip on extensions. Jessica Simpson, Paris Hilton, TressAllure, and a lot of reputable hair extension brands offer clip in hair extensions that are made with human hair. Most can be purchased on-line or at a beauty supply store because they are able to be attached at home yourself.

If you are looking for just fun extensions for a special occasion or Halloween party, then consider synthetic extensions. Synthetic extensions are made from fibers designed to replicate human hair. They are much cheaper than human hair and can come in fun colors like hot pink and purple. There are even dreadlock extensions available for those wanting a bold change (without the wait involved with growing real dreads).

Length of Hair Being Used

The longer the hair the more it will cost. Longer hair of the highest quality is even more money and may need to be special ordered. But if you are going to go for it, then get the length you want and remember that after you having your extensions applied, that your stylist will need to cut it to have it blend in with your natural tresses, so you will lose a little anyways.

Geographical Location

Location, Location, Location. Where you get your extensions done is another factor in the cost of hair extensions. Getting your extensions done at a hair salon on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills may be a little more expensive than getting them done in a smaller town.

Usually hair extension consultations are free, so do your homework and interview several stylists before making the plunge. You may find that a wonderfully experienced stylist is just around the corner and not in the huge metropolis two towns over.

If your hair stylist is experienced in the hair extension method that you prefer than don't think that someone in Beverly Hills will do a better job just because of the zip code -- you may end up paying a lot extra.

Extension Method Being Employed

The hair extension method being used is another huge factor in how much your hair extensions will cost. There are lots of different hair extension techniques that will have varying price structures and maintenance needs.

The most inexpensive way to go for temporary extensions is getting clip ons, these you can apply yourself or you can go to a trained stylist who will apply them or show you how to apply them. Many women wear hair extensions every day, without getting permanent ones attached, so there is no problem with clip on extensions if they fit your lifestyle better.

The most expensive hair extension methods is the strand-by-strand hair extension technique. This technique happens to be more expensive than others because of the time involved in getting the extensions applied. The hair stylist must attach the extension one strand at a time. Strands usually contain 20-50 hairs a peice, so you can imagine how time consuming this would for a full head of hair -- and time is money.

Using hair wefts is a much faster process because you are applying a lot more hair with each weft than if you went strand-by-strand.

How Much Hair is Being Applied

The amount of hair being applied is also a determining factor in the cost of getting extensions. A partial head of hair is cheaper than a full head of hair.

Maintenance & Touch-ups

When considering extensions, you should also factor in the cost for maintenance. This would be adjustments and touch-ups about every 6-8 weeks. Also you will need to purchase some special products formulated to keep your hair healthy, including special shampoos and conditioners.

If you are getting your extensions colored to match your own hair, then there may be an additional cost for that. Some extensions can be re-used if they are properly maintained, but there may be an extra fee for new bonding or glue.

These are the little costs that not many people think about when getting hair extensions, it's not just the hair and attachment, there's much more to it than that

FINAL NOTE: Make Sure You Understand the Hair Extension Quote
When you are getting a quote for extensions, make sure that you understand what is being included. Does the price include the actual hair or is that a separate cost? Does it include any follow-up appointments? Will you get a "care package" that includes shampoo for hair extensions and also a conditioner for hair extensions? Does the quote include cut and style?

Most hair salons will not quote prices over the phone because everyone will have different needs, so they will likely require a consultation to review your hair and what you are looking for when getting extensions.