New To Extensions? Start Here

Your first-time hair extensions guide

There's a first time for everything, including extensions. Here's exactly what to expect, how to choose your length and method, and how to keep your new hair looking flawless.

Row of hair extension wefts in a gradient of shades from platinum blonde to black and grey, some straight and some braided
See It In Action

Watch a real first-time install

Follow along as a first-time client gets her K-tip extensions installed, see exactly how seamless and natural the process looks, start to finish.

The Process

What happens at your first visit

No surprises: every appointment follows the same four steps, whether it's your first set of extensions or your fifth.

01

Free Consultation

We talk through your hair goals, current hair health, and budget before recommending anything.

02

Hair Matching

Your stylist colour- and texture-matches extensions to your natural hair for a seamless blend.

03

Installation

Application takes 60-180 minutes depending on the method and amount of hair you're adding.

04

Style & Go

Leave with full, blended length, cut and styled to fit straight into your routine.

Length & Volume

Find the length that suits you

Not sure how long is too long? Here's a quick reference for what each length typically delivers.

Three women modeling hair extensions at 16-inch, 20-inch, and 24-inch lengths side by side for comparison
Shoulder Length 14"-16" Subtle, everyday volume

Best for a natural boost in length and thickness without it being obvious you're wearing extensions.

Mid-Back 18"-20" Our most-requested length

The sweet spot for noticeable length and volume that still moves and feels natural.

Waist Length 22"-24" Maximum drama

For clients chasing serious length, best paired with healthy natural hair and regular maintenance.

Methods Explained

Which install method is right for you?

Your stylist will recommend the best fit during your consultation: here's how each one works.

Close-up of three hair extension installation methods on the scalp: micro-bead, tape-in, and hand-tied weft

K-Tip / Keratin Bond

Most Natural

Individual strands are fused to small sections of your hair using a keratin bond and heat tool, no glue, no clips.

Lasts3-4 months
Install Time~2.5 hrs
Best ForFine to medium hair

Tape-In

Low Maintenance

Thin, pre-taped wefts are sandwiched around small sections of your natural hair for a flat, seamless finish.

Lasts6-8 weeks
Install Time~1 hr
Best ForMost hair types

Clip-In

No Commitment

Wefts with built-in clips snap into your hair for instant length and volume, applied and removed at home, same day.

LastsReusable, 1+ yr
Install Time~10 min
Best ForSpecial occasions

Weft / Sew-In

Max Volume

Wefts are sewn onto braided tracks of your own hair, no heat or adhesive touches your natural strands.

Lasts2-3 months
Install Time~3 hrs
Best ForThick, coarse hair
Day One Onward

Caring for your new extensions

A little daily care goes a long way toward making your extensions last as long as possible.

Brush Gently

Start from the ends, work up, and always brush before bed.

Wash with Care

Sulfate-free shampoo, lukewarm water, and rinse roots-to-ends only.

Sleep It Right

Loosely braid or tie your hair up before bed to avoid tangling.

Mind the Heat

Always use a heat protectant and keep styling tools under 180°C.

Salon Check-Ins

Book a move-up appointment every 6-8 weeks to keep things tidy.

Common Questions

First-timer FAQ

Will extensions damage my natural hair?

Not when installed and maintained correctly. Our stylists size and place every bond or weft to your hair's health, and regular move-up appointments prevent strain on your roots.

How long does the appointment take?

Most first appointments run 1.5-3 hours, including your consultation, colour matching, and full installation.

Can I swim, work out, or wash my hair normally?

Yes, once installed, you can live normally. We'll walk you through a few small adjustments (like tying hair up before swimming) during your appointment.

How much maintenance is involved?

This depends on the method. Tape-ins and K-tips need a move-up every 6-8 weeks; clip-ins need none at all. Your stylist will set expectations upfront.

Can extensions be coloured or styled like my own hair?

Yes, once matched and installed, you can heat style, curl, and straighten as usual. Colouring is best left to your stylist to protect the hair's quality.

Get Perfect Hair

Ready for your first set of extensions?

Book a free consultation and we'll walk you through length, method, and pricing, no pressure, no obligation.

Zero-Risk Promise: love it or we make it right