Top tips for applying perfect hair extensions

Thanks in large to their huge celebrity following, hair extensions have become big business in the salon. Using real hair extensions and making sure that you get the right colour match are fundamental to achieving a great natural finish, but there are secrets to the perfect application. These are some of the most important rules to follow when giving your clients extensions.

• "By razoring the extensions after they have been applied, the natural hair and extensions blend together and the client will leave with a proper style, even if they have had extensions for lengthening."

Melissa Odede, Dome 

• "For the majority of clients, the virgin hair at the root, that has not been bleached by the sun, is a different colour to the lighter sun-bleached ends. So, if you're matching extensions to the root then it will be too dark on the ends, and vice versa. We have produced hair that is slightly darker at the root to tackle this problem."Stan Levy, Hair Development
• "Pre-cutting the natural hair perfectly will enhance your extension hairstyle, maximising optimum blend between the natural hair length and the added hair. It is essential to blend colours. Try using two or three similar colours for movement in the hair." Paul Riley, Balmain Hair Extensions
• "When applying extensions, get a more secure fit by backcombing the roots slightly." Linda Vassie, Hairware
• "Ensure the system you've chosen is appropriate for your client's hair. Cylindrical bonds give incredible root lift, but for a completely natural look, opt for flat bonds. Both types of bonds should be undetectable. For a flawless look, closely monitor your ratio of natural hair to hair extensions."Debby Zoltie, Great Lengths
• "Make sure that the amount of hair introduced is sympathetic to the client's own hair, texture and length, otherwise it can make the overall style look unbalanced. Placement of the extensions can make or break a natural look. Place the extension so it falls naturally within the client's own hair."Nick Allen, Rapture Rapid Extensions
• "Work sympathetically with the client's own hair, matching each section weight for weight. Small bonds carefully applied should be virtually undetectable, even on very fine hair. Proper aftercare keeps extensions looking great. It's important that the products you're offering not only nourish the hair, but protect the bonds too."Ann Fegan, Racoon International

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