Let’s be real—who doesn’t want long, luscious hair that looks like it belongs on a red carpet?! Seriously, the number of times I’ve stared at a glossy celeb Instagram post and thought, “Ooooo, that hair!” Too many to count. And yep, you guessed it—most of the time, those bombshell locks are not all natural. It’s called hair extensions, hun, and honestly, they’re a total game changer.
So, where can you get them professionally put in near you? Looooots of places! But finding the right spot can feel a little overwhelming (trust, I’ve been there). But babe, don’t stress! I’m here to share all the tea on how to find THE perfect salon or hairstylist to live your best hair life!
P.S. You’re about to glow up. Ready? GO!
First Step: Research Like You’re Stalking Your Ex’s New Bae 💅
st salons for hair extensions near [insertdon’t—just pick the first place that pops up. You’ll want to look at reviews, peep their Instagram, and get a feel for their vibe.
Always check to see if the stylist’s work matches the hair inspo vibe you’re going for because what fits one person’s goals might not hit with yours.
While you’re at it, why not do a scroll through TikTok or Instagram Reels for trendy places in your area? Girl, this is the tea! Look for customer tags or selfies of real people after their appointments. You’ll know pretty quick what’s up.
Professional Stylists vs. Your BFF with YouTube Tutorials
We’ve all been there. Your bestie swears she can do your hair based off some YouTube tutorial. Like, “It’s so easy, right?! I watched three videos!” Um, sis… unless your friend has spent forever mastering the art of wefts and tape-ins, seriosuly, start your “Thanks, but no thanks” text right now. (Or at least make sure she has tons of practice.)
If you want your hair extensions to last—and not ruin your natural hair—go pro. A legit stylist knows what’s up: they’ll color-match your extensions perfectly and apply them with skill so they blend in seamlessly.
Girl, this is your hair we’re talking about! Hand it over to a pro and let them work their magic. DIY can wait.
Types of Extensions You’ll Wanna Consider
Quick PSA: Not all hair extensions are the same! It’s like comparing drugstore makeup to high-end brands—there’s a difference. I’m throwing some extension knowledge at you right now, and sis, it’s vital that you understand the options before booking any appointment. Let’s break it down:
1. Clip-ins (Quick & Temporary)
Clip-ins are like the fast food of hair extensions: quick, easy, and don’t require much commitment. You can literally clip in and take out these pieces all by yourself at home. But if you want them put in professionally, you can absolutely ask a stylist to help for that super polished look!
2. Tape-ins
Okay bestie, this is where it gets serious. Tape-ins are pretty popular because they are flat (yay for blending!) and pretty permanent compared to clip-ins. Your stylist will “tape” your extensions onto small sections of your natural hair—making them hella flexible and comfy. And yes, you can still flip your hair around like Ariana.
3. Sew-ins (Weave)
Sew-ins usually are THE GO-TO for shorter or thicker hair types, but honestly, anyone can wear them. Your stylist braids your natural hair super-close to your scalp and then sews the extensions into the braids. This one sounds intense, but done right, it looks hella sleek and stunning.
4. Fusion & Micro-Links
These are all for my ride-or-die extension fans out there. Fusion extensions? They last up to SIX months, babe! But know this—they take houuuurs. We’re talking about tiny keratin bonds glued to your own hair. And micro-links? Small beads used to attach extensions strand by strand to your hair. Yeah, like, strand by strand. SO much work.
Your stylist can totally help you figure out which type of extension suits your life and hair goals.
Wanna know a little pro-tip from me to you, babe? Bring screenshots of hair inspo! You can never go wrong when your stylist can visually see what you want.
The Cost? Umm, Keep Calm, Don’t Faint 😅
Listen, hair extensions can be on the pricier side and it’s 100% normal to feel sticker shock at first. But like…you are getting high-quality hair that looks bomb. Here’s what you should expect:
- Clip-ins: About $100 to $500 (Depending on length, brand, and quality)
- Tape-Ins: Ballpark of $200 to $800, excluding application fees.
- Sew-Ins: $300 to $1000 for the job—especially if buying luxury hair (hellooo, virgin Remy)
- Fusion & Micro-Link Extensions: Easily $1000+ (Maybe plan around payday, girl 🤑)
Yes, it’s $$, but it’s sooo worth it… especially when people start asking you “Is that like, all your hair?” And you get to hit them with the major “YUP!”
Salon Red Flags to Watch For 🤔
Okay, now let’s get real for a second: not every place that offers hair extensions should actually be trusted with your hair. Some red flags scream “run NOW”, and I’m here to save you from any extension disasters.
1. Questionable Reviews
Even if the salon’s website looks perfect with professional pics, always always ALWAYS read customer reviews (especially on sites like Yelp or Google). If people talk about extensions falling out in a week, looking tangled, or it’s super hard to schedule a follow-up appointment, girl, that’s a NO from me.
2. Sketchy Prices Too Good to Be True
Ever heard, “If it’s too cheap, there’s a catch”? Extensions fall perfectly under this. Sure, we love a good bargain, but cheap extensions might come from a salon using low-quality hair. There’s always a reason they’re undercutting everyone in price.
3. Not Enough Info Provided
Pro stylists want you to feel comfortable and educated about your hair journey. If you walk in and the stylist can’t explain what kind of extensions would work best for you or rushes through the consultation like “whatever, you’ll figure it out,” take your hair elsewhere.
Trust your gut, babe. If things feel off, trust me, you’ll thank yourself for walking out.
Finding a Stylist Near You
So now that you know what to look for…and what to like, you know, run from, how do you actually find the right stylist near you? Here’s your roadmap:
1. Ask for Recommendations (Word of Mouth!)
Honestly, this is my personal fave way to find gems. Nothing compares to hearing firsthand from people you trust, especially if their hair is poppin’. Just text up your squad!
2. Instagram is Your Hair BFF, girl 🖤
True story: I found my own extension stylist on Insta! Use hashtags like #HairExtensionsOC or #LAHairstylist to find pros who use live models and real clients for proof of their work. Plus, you can slide into their DMs for a consultation!
3. Check Licenses & Certifications
Okay yes, slightly boring but important. Any stylist putting in extensions should be licensed—it’s a basic. And if they’ve got extra certs for extensions like Hotheads or GreatLengths? Even better! Make sure they’re up on the latest tech for making you #HairGoals!
So, What’s the Vibe for Your New Look? 🌟
By now, I hope you’re excited about all the good hair days ahead! Whether you’re team long and mermaid-y or sleek AF, getting extensions might be the BEST hair bonus you ever invest in. And remember: it’s your hair, your happiness! Do what makes you feel 10/10.
“Life isn’t perfect, but your hair should be.”—Unknown
Now get out there, crunch those numbers, stalk those salons (but in a super cute, non-creepy way), and find that pro who’s going to SLAY your extension game! 💇♀️💕
