With so many types and techniques available, it can feel overwhelming at first—but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a complete guide to help you confidently match your clients with the perfect hair extensions.
Before diving into the art of matching extensions to a client’s natural hair, let’s cover the basics. Extensions can be either made from synthetic fibers or human hair, with human hair being the highest-quality (and pricier) option. Human hair extensions can be treated almost like your natural hair, offering more styling versatility and a natural look. They’re perfect for clients who want longevity and a seamless blend.
There are multiple types of hair extension bundles that can be installed:
Matching extensions to a client’s hair color is an art form in itself. The key to making extensions look natural is nailing the color match and blend. Here’s how:
Natural hair color can look drastically different under varying light conditions. Always analyze your client’s hair in natural light, not just under salon lighting. This will give you the truest color match. If possible, hold up color swatches or sample wefts to the client’s hair in both bright and low lighting.
Hair isn’t just one uniform color—it’s a blend of different shades and undertones. Pay close attention to whether the client’s hair has warm, cool, or neutral undertones. A good match isn’t just about finding a weft that’s the same base color; it’s about getting the undertones right.
Extensions often come in mixed shades that mimic natural highlights and lowlights. If you can’t find a perfect match, opt for custom coloring.
The magic is in the blend. Here are a few tips:
Customizing extensions can set you apart as a stylist and give your clients a truly unique experience. If you’ve undergone hair extension training, you know how important customization is. You can trim or color the extensions to match your client’s exact specifications. Even small tweaks, like curling or waving the extensions to mimic your client’s natural texture, can make a world of difference.
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Choosing the right type of extensions also means considering your client’s hair type and lifestyle. Here’s how to approach this:
Clients with fine hair may not be able to support heavy extensions without risking damage. Tape-in extensions work well here since they lay flat and don’t pull on the hair too much. For clients with thick hair, sew-ins or fusion extensions can be a better option, as they offer the needed strength and blend seamlessly.
Matching hair texture is just as crucial as matching color. Hair extensions come in various textures, from silky straight to deep waves. If your client has naturally curly or textured hair, opt for extensions that match their curl pattern. Straight extensions on curly hair will not blend well, no matter how well you color-match them.
If your client swims often or styles their hair with heat daily, consider extensions that can withstand this kind of wear and tear. Sew-in or fusion extensions tend to hold up well. For low-maintenance clients, suggest clip-ins or halos, as these are easy to care for and can be removed as needed.
When selecting the right method for your client, weigh the pros and cons based on their hair goals and daily routine.
Clip-ins are easy to use and perfect for special occasions with no damage to natural hair. However, they are not ideal for daily use, less secure, and require regular removal.
These are lightweight, virtually invisible, and easy to style, yet need professional installation and require maintenance every 6-8 weeks.
Extremely secure and perfect for thick hair, sew-ins are a very popular option. However, these can be heavy and uncomfortable and are not ideal for fine hair.
Fusion hair extensions are long-lasting with a seamless finish. However, this method is time-consuming to install, requires professional expertise, and can cause damage if not cared for properly.
Thanks to no glue or heat being used, microlinks are easy to adjust. However, these are not suitable for very fine hair, and beads can slip if not installed correctly.
Applying hair extensions isn’t just about putting them in and calling it a day. As a stylist, your job is to ensure your client’s natural hair stays healthy and the extensions look flawless. Here are some top practices:
Even the best application techniques can face some hiccups. Here are a few common problems and how to solve them:
Choosing the right type of hair extensions for each client involves understanding their hair type, color, texture, and lifestyle. By mastering the art of color matching and blending and customizing extensions to fit individual needs, you’ll elevate your skills and your client’s experience.
The world of cosmetology is always changing—staying updated through hair extension certification and ongoing training is key to offering the best service possible.
With this guide, you’re well on your way to creating show-stopping looks that keep your clients coming back for more. Happy styling!
Master the art of hair extensions and elevate your career in cosmetology! Schedule a tour of Brillare Beauty Institute today to learn from industry experts and gain hands-on experience in our immersive SalonSpa environment.
