Alisa Pose
Journal
How much do hair extensions cost?
Two people can walk in asking for the same thing and leave with quotes nowhere near each other. This is what moves that number.
Written by Alisa Pose · Great Lengths certified · 20 years in extensions
Why nobody can quote you off a photo
The cost is mostly hair and mostly time, and neither is knowable until someone has their hands in your hair. A quote given before that is a guess, and a guess is what turns into a surprise at the desk. Alisa gives you the number at consultation, in writing, before anything is booked.
What moves the number
Amount of hair is the biggest factor. Length and density both increase it, and thick hair often needs more, not less, because the extensions have to match what is already there. Method matters too: a strand-by-strand keratin fusion install is the longest time in the chair, and time is part of the cost. A tape row goes in under an hour.
Why the first appointment costs more
Because you are buying the hair. After that, you are paying for maintenance. All five methods are reusable with professional care, so a move-up costs a fraction of the initial install. Tape row hair is reusable up to a year. Wefts are reused through multiple move-ups. Budget for the first appointment, then for a move-up every six to eight weeks on wefts.
On financing, and on cheaper quotes
Financing can be discussed at consultation. On cheaper quotes, the thing worth knowing is that the cost is mostly hair and mostly time, so a much lower number usually means less of one or both. That is not always wrong, but it should be a decision rather than a surprise.
Common questions
How much do hair extensions cost in San Diego?
It depends on the method and how much hair you need, which is why Alisa quotes at consultation rather than off a photo. You get the figure in writing before you book.
Why are hair extensions so expensive?
The cost is mostly the hair itself and the time to install it. A strand-by-strand keratin install is hours of work, and premium human hair is the other half.
Do you have to pay the same every time?
No. The hair is reusable with professional maintenance, so move-up appointments cost considerably less than the initial install.