A Hair Extension Consultation at our Handcross salon is your first step toward longer, fuller hair. In this complimentary 15-minute appointment, we assess your hair health, discuss your goals, and recommend the best extension method, colour match, and maintenance plan tailored to your lifestyle.
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What Happens During Your Consultation
Your stylist will guide you through every detail so you leave with confidence and clarity:
- Hair assessment: We review your hair history—previous colour, chemical treatments, past extensions—and check scalp health to ensure you're a good candidate
- Goal setting: Bring inspiration photos and share whether you want length, volume, fullness in specific areas, or added dimension
- Method recommendations: We explain options like tape-ins, wefts, I-tips, and keratin bonds, discussing pros, cons, and what suits your hair type and daily routine
- Colour matching: Using swatches in natural light, we ensure seamless blending with your base colour and any highlights
- Transparent pricing: You'll receive a full breakdown covering hair, installation, maintenance visits, and recommended aftercare products
Who Extensions Suit Best
Extensions work beautifully when your natural hair is in good condition and you're ready to commit to the care routine:
- Ideal for clients wanting more length or volume who have healthy, stable hair free from severe breakage
- Not recommended if hair is over-processed, very fragile, or experiencing significant thinning—we'll always be honest if an alternative approach is better
- Best results come when you're prepared for regular maintenance (typically every 6–8 weeks depending on method) and daily gentle brushing and sulfate-free washing
- If you're planning a colour change, mention it during your consultation so we can time everything correctly
Your Tailored Extension Plan
By the end of your consultation, you'll have a clear roadmap:
- Chosen method, length, and density based on your starting hair, face shape, and styling preferences
- Total investment: upfront cost plus ongoing maintenance and product budget, so there are no surprises
- Timeline: how soon we can order your hair and book your installation appointment
- Aftercare outline: what daily care looks like, including sleeping with hair in a loose braid, drying roots completely, and using a soft-bristle brush
Our Handcross team—including senior stylists like Kayleigh, Hannah, Lisa, Harry, Freya, Barry, and Mary—bring years of extension experience and will ensure you feel informed and excited about the next step. If extensions aren't right for you, we'll suggest alternatives that protect your hair health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a hair extension consultation take?
The consultation is 15 minutes and is complimentary. It's a planning appointment where we assess your hair, discuss options, and create a tailored plan—no extensions are applied during this visit.
Do I need to book a consultation before getting extensions?
Yes, a consultation is required before any extension installation. It ensures we choose the right method, colour match perfectly, and confirm your hair is healthy enough to support extensions safely.
What should I bring to my consultation?
Bring inspiration photos showing your desired length and style, and be ready to discuss your hair history including any previous extensions, chemical treatments, or colouring. Come with clean, dry hair if possible so we can assess it accurately.
Will I get a price quote during the consultation?
Yes, you'll receive a transparent breakdown of all costs including the hair itself, installation, maintenance appointments, and recommended aftercare products. Many clients also discuss deposit requirements at this stage.
Can anyone get hair extensions?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate. Extensions work best on healthy, stable hair. Very fragile, over-processed, or thinning hair may not support extensions safely, and certain scalp conditions can also be a concern. We'll assess this honestly during your consultation.
What extension methods do you offer?
We offer tape-ins, wefts, I-tips, keratin bonds, and other methods depending on your hair type and lifestyle. During your consultation, we'll explain the pros and cons of each and recommend the best fit for you.
How much do extensions cost at Aaron Russell?
Pricing varies based on the method, amount of hair needed, and your starting length. During your consultation, we provide a full breakdown so you understand both the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs.
How often will I need maintenance appointments?
Maintenance frequency depends on the method chosen, but most clients need move-up or tightening appointments every 6–8 weeks. We'll give you a clear schedule during your consultation so you can plan ahead.
What if I want to change my hair colour after the consultation?
If you're planning a colour change, mention it during your consultation so we can coordinate timing and ensure your extensions match your new shade. Colour changes after ordering can affect the blend.
What happens if extensions aren't right for me?
If we determine your hair isn't suitable for extensions—due to fragility, thinning, or scalp health—we'll be honest and suggest alternative treatments or services that protect your hair and help you reach your goals safely.
