"I alway wanted Hair Extensions..How Much Are They, Anyway?"

Local salon, Secrets of Hairdesign & Day Spa recently added two new services: Hair Extensions and Airbrush Make Up! (More on the make up another day!) Extensions are not offered in most salons in the area, so we hear a similar sentiment from a lot of our clients, potential clients, friends and family, "I always wanted extensions, but how much do they cost anyway?"

First, the cost of any Hair Extension service varies, depending on hair type (real, synthetic) length (comes in various lengths, the longer the pricier), quantity (Full head, partial, just a few wefts) and many other variables, which are all added to the cost of the actual application of the extensions, or rather the labor of the service.

Secrets' Extension Service start at a base price of $350-$400. A final price is then calculated depending on the above variables. Secrets recommends setting up a consultation to determine what type of extensions would be suitable for you, and determining a price on the spot, so that you're not obligated to have the service, before you know the final price. It's a win/win either way! Yes, what you're thinking is correct--this is an incredible value for such a high-end service, but don't just "think," check it out for yourself on Costhelper.com:

The cost of hair extensions varies based on: the quality, type and length of hair extension chosen, the method of application and the length and density of the natural hair.

Typical costs:

• Hair extensions typically cost between $150 and $300, plus the cost of the hair, for a partial head of extensions. Total cost ranges from $400 to $800.
• Hair extensions typically cost between $300 and $600, plus the cost of the hair, for a full head of extensions for fullness only. Total cost ranges from $1,300 to $1,600.
• Hair extensions typically costs $600 to $1500 and up, plus the cost of the hair, for a full head of extensions for fullness and added length. Total cost ranges from $1,600 to $4,000.
• High-quality human hair that is cut -- not brushed -- off usually costs from $250 to $500 for a partial head and $1,000 to $2,500 for a full head, depending on length and origin.
• Synthetic hair and low-quality human hair, which are not recommended, cost much less.What should be included: The stylist will schedule an initial consultation to assess your hair and discuss to desired results and cost. (Secrets uses REAL hair.)
• Bonding methods include braiding, weaving, sewing and fusion, in which the hair comes coated at the tips with a substance that, when heated, bonds with your own hair. (Secrets uses an adhesive method that is extremely easy on the hair--no heat, no bonding, and no braiding or sewing!)
• If necessary, the hair extensions will be color matched to your own hair.
• At the appointment, the stylist will trim your hair and then use the chosen method to attach the hair extensions. Depending on the method and how many extensions are being applied, this can take anywhere from two to six hours. After application, the stylist will trim the hair for a blended look.

Additional costs:

• Some bonding techniques require regular application of a product to keep the bond in good shape, for about $20 per month.
  As hair grows, extensions need to be trimmed. This costs about the same as a traditional haircut.
• Color touch-ups are sometimes necessary on extensions; this can cost $50 or more
  As hair grows, hair extensions will need to be taken out and reapplied; hair extensions usually last an average of four to six months. This re-application will cost as much as the first for labor, but high-quality human hair usually can be reused.
• Removal, which can take an hour or two, usually costs the stylist's hourly rate, unless new extensions are being applied.

Discounts:

• Some salons will charge an hourly rate to apply extensions you buy yourself; however, it usually is a better idea to purchase hair through a licensed hairdresser.

Cost info pulled from Cost-Helper.com