Pricing your extension services is based on many factors—the type of method you are doing, how much experience you have, your location, and how many other stylists in your area offer that method. Does your client want length and/or volume? How thick is her hair? What length do they want? What color? Will you need to color the extensions? The list goes on.

Because pricing can be so situational to the client, Chicago-based stylist Lauren Salata of SALON TODAY Salons of the Year 2017 honoree Base Salonsays she won’t even give a ballpark price range until after her consultation.

“I generally charge $20 per extension, on top of the cost of the hair, to apply,” she says. “So, if I am applying ten extensions (sandwiches) to a client, it will be $200 for the application. I always collect a nonrefundable deposit to cover the cost of hair and shipping, and to secure the clients extension appointment; the cost of hair varies based on many different factors, so always make sure that your deposit is enough to cover the cost of hair.”

According to Meghan Stringham, Utah-based stylist and extension expert, pricing extension service depends on several factors. “Pricing is typically a package deal that includes hair, the installation, a blending haircut, and an after care kit,” she says. “The price will vary on the amount of grams, brand, and method of extensions we are doing.”

Take all of these into consideration when quoting your clientele.

Move-up: Priced per hour. This service needs to be rebooked every 4-8 weeks depending on the client and application. Your pricing typically should be double what your haircut price is.

Skill: To any new stylist entering the extension business, it is important to realize you need practice and build your business. Stringham recommends finding 10 friends to be your models and have them pay you for hair. This will help you improve your skill level much quicker and fast track your business. Plus, now you have 10 guaranteed move-ups coming in every 4-8 weeks. 

Location: Just like any salon service prices will vary depending on the salons clientele and location. 

The extension business is buzzing—how can you be a resource to your hair loss clients looking for a solution.The annual HAIR+ Summit is September 30-October 2 in Atlanta. Read more about your HAIR+ business here.