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How much do hair extensions cost in the UK?

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Average cost of hair extensions

£80 - £850

low

£80

median

£465

high

£850

Low, median and high bar chart distribuiton

Last Updated on

Angela A.

Written by Angela A.

Staff Writer

Read more about our contributor

Key Facts

  • The cost of hair extensions in the UK ranges from £80 to £850 for a full-head service, but it varies based on type, location, and more.

  • Remy hair refers to high-quality human hair with cuticles kept and aligned in the same direction for a natural look.

  • Sulfate-free shampoos maintain the integrity of hair extensions because they prevent bond damage within strands.

The right hair extensions can add length and volume while lasting months with proper care. No wonder hair extensions are popular among those dreaming of donning a new hairstyle every month. However, the question of how much hair extensions cost often arises during planning. 

In the UK, hair extension prices can range from £80 to £850, but many factors influence these numbers. This guide breaks down those factors so you can find the perfect hair extensions for your budget and style.

What are the average costs of hair extensions in the UK?

Disclaimer Airtasker’s cost estimates come from thorough research on industry and third-party rates. Please only use the listed prices as a benchmark when setting your budget. Moreover, as different areas have local taxes and service fees, the rates listed below are subject to change.
Hair extension service
Average cost for 16-22 inch extensions*

Clip-in hair extensions

£80 to £200

Tape hair extensions

£150 to £650

Micro-ring hair extensions

£250 to £800

Nano-ring hair extensions

£350 to £750

Weft hair extensions

£150 to £750

Fusion bond hair extensions

£450 to £850

Invisi-tape hair extensions

£150 to £650

Budget synthetic hair extensions

£30 to £100

*Depending on the number of packs needed for a full-head hair extension

The average cost of hair extensions in the UK can vary quite a bit, but they’ll typically range from £80 to £850. This depends heavily on the type of hair extensions you choose, the length and volume you need, and the method of application. For example, budget synthetic hair extensions start at around £30, while premium options like fusion bond extensions can go up to £850 or more for a full-head installation.

Generally, clip-in extensions cost between £80 and £200. More permanent options, like micro-ring and nano-ring extensions, can cost anywhere from £250 to £800. The number of packs required, the quality of the hair, and the expertise of the stylist also play a role in determining the final price.

What are the types of hair extensions and their costs?

A hair extension’s price will depend on what you’re looking for—whether it’s a temporary boost in volume or a long-lasting transformation. There are several types available, and each one comes with its own price range. Let’s explore some of them below.

Clip-in hair extensions cost

hair extensions cost - Brunette clip-in hair extensions for easy stylingBrunette clip-in hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

Service
Average price range

Single pack (16–22 inches)

£80 to £200

Optional hair styling

£20 to £50 per session

Clip-in hair extensions are perfect if you want to add volume and length to your hair. These come with small clips that can be attached or removed right at home, so they’re ideal for special occasions or just a change of style. 

If you’re after full-head hair extensions, you'll likely need multiple packs. Just note that this could push up the total price from the average £80 to £200.

Tape-in hair extensions

hair extensions cost - Tape-in brunette hair extensions for seamless blendingTape-in brunette hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

Service
Average price range

Full head installation (16–22 inches)

£150 to £650

Maintenance (every 6–8 weeks)

£70 to £140 per session

Removal only

£30 to £50

Tape-in hair extensions use pre-taped wefts (strands of hair woven together) that are applied close to your scalp. This gives you a natural and lightweight finish, so they’re a popular semi-permanent choice. 

They can cost as much as £150 to £650, but the hair can be reused and typically lasts between 6 to 12 months with proper care. Maintenance is important, though, as you'll need to have them removed and re-applied every 6–8 weeks to keep them looking fresh and well-blended.

Micro-ring hair extensions

hair extensions cost - Micro-ring hair extensions in red for bold looksRed micro-ring hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

Service
Average price range

Full head installation (16–22 inches)

£250 to £800

Maintenance (every 6–8 weeks)

£80 to £150 per session

Removal only

£40 to £70

Micro-ring extensions use small metal rings to secure strands of hair to your natural hair, with no glue or heat involved. This technique is ideal if you’re looking for something discreet yet long-lasting. You can even reuse the hair for up to a year as long as you get regular tightening every 6–8 weeks and you take good care of the hair. This type of hair extension can typically set you back £250 to £800.

Nano-ring hair extensions

hair extensions cost - Blonde nano-ring hair extensions for fine hairBlonde nano-ring hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

Service
Average price range

Full head installation (16–22 inches)

£350 to £750

Maintenance (every 6–8 weeks)

£80 to £150 per session

Nano-ring extensions work much like micro-rings but use smaller beads. This makes them almost undetectable, which is great for those with fine hair. These extensions also cost a bit pricier at £350 to £750, but they’re reusable. They just need regular upkeep every 6–8 weeks to reposition and tighten the rings.

Fusion bond hair extensions
hair extensions cost - Fusion bond hair extensions in blonde for durable wearBlonde fusion bond hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

Service
Average price range

Full head installation (16–22 inches)

£450 to £850

Removal and replacement (every 3–6 months)

£100 to £150

Fusion bond extensions use keratin glue to bond individual strands to your natural hair. These bonds are durable, but they aren't reusable, meaning you'll need replacements every 3 to 6 months. 

This method is ideal if you want long-term, low-maintenance hair extensions that blend seamlessly with your own hair. However, they can cost anywhere from £450 to £850.

Weft hair extensions

Service
Average price range

Full head installation

£150 to £750

Maintenance (per row, every 6–8 weeks)

£50 to £100 per row

Removal only

£20 to £50 per row

Weft extensions, also known as ‘weaves,’ involve sewing or braiding strips of hair into your natural hair. Regular maintenance is required to adjust the rows and keep them comfortable, but they’re mostly straightforward. Weft or weave hair extensions cost £150 to £750.

Invisi-tape hair extensions

Service
Average price range

Full head installation

£150 to £650

Maintenance (every 8 weeks)

£100 to £150 per session

Removal only

£40 to £70

Invisi-tape extensions are an upgraded version of tape-ins. They’re designed to give a more natural look by mimicking the appearance of hair roots. But note that they do require maintenance every 8 weeks to keep them looking flawless. And for a full-head installation, you can expect to pay £150 to £650.

Budget synthetic hair extensions

hair extensions cost - Affordable synthetic hair extensions for budget-friendly stylingBudget-friendly synthetic hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

Budget synthetic hair extensions are a cost-effective choice for short-term use. While they lack the natural look or heat-styling flexibility as human hair extensions, they’re ideal if you need a quick and cheap way to enhance your hairstyle temporarily. You can get one for as low as £30 to £100.

What factors affect the costs of hair extensions?

How much hair extensions are in the UK depends on the location, length, quality of hair, and more. Let’s look into a few factors that can significantly impact the final cost.

Location of the service

State/territory/city
Average costs of a hair extension

London

£160 to £800

Birmingham

£60 to £400

Manchester

£160 to £960

Nottingham

£85 to £450

Leeds

£110 to £790

Glasgow

£100 to £470

Liverpool

£110 to £450

Bristol

£200 to £500

Where you get your hair extensions can have a big impact on how much you’ll pay. In major cities like London or Manchester, the average cost can be much higher, ranging from £160 to £960, due to higher operational costs and demand. 

Upscale salons in these areas often provide luxury services, as well. These include consultations and premium-grade hair, which further raises the prices.

In contrast, smaller cities offer more budget-friendly options. Prices in these regions start as low as £85 and can provide good results without the frills. Mobile stylists are also an option if you're looking to save on salon overheads while still getting professional quality.

Length

hair extensions cost - Long blonde hair extensions for luxurious lengthLong blonde hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

The length also directly affects how much hair extensions are. Longer extensions need more material and time for application, which naturally increases the price. For example, an 18-inch set of tape-ins might cost around £150 to £400, while a 22-inch set could go up to £650.

Longer lengths also require more skill and time from the stylist for cutting and blending into your natural hair. The additional packs often needed to achieve full coverage add even more to the final bill. 

Number of pairs

The number of hair packs or pairs you need depends on your natural hair's thickness and the desired volume. If you have fine hair, you might only need 3 to 4 packs, which would cost roughly £200 to £500. But if you’re looking to add significant volume or have thicker natural hair, expect to need more, which could raise the cost to £600 or more for a full head.

People wanting to add both volume and length may need even more packs or pairs. Extra rows or strands increase the total cost because of the added material and the time required for application.

Human vs synthetic

hair extensions cost - Combing hair extensions to maintain qualityCombing hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

The material used for hair extensions—human or synthetic—makes a significant difference in cost. 

Natural hair extensions are made from 100% human hair. They are more durable and can be heat-styled or dyed. This justifies their higher price, ranging from £250 to £850 depending on the length and quality. 

The highest grade is called Remy hair, which has the cuticles intact and in the same direction for an even more natural look. Double-drawn human hair, which is thicker and uniform from root to tip, costs even more due to its premium quality. 

On the other hand, synthetic hair extensions are a cheaper alternative, usually priced between £30 to £100 per pack. While they lack the natural appearance and flexibility of human hair, they work well for short-term use or one-off occasions.

Experience of the hair stylist

The experience of the stylist performing your hair extension fitting and installation can also impact the cost. Highly skilled stylists who have been in the beauty industry for a long time often charge more for their expertise. After all, they can provide personalised aftercare advice.

Advanced methods, like fusion bonds or nano-rings, also require working with an experienced stylist. Beginner stylists might offer lower rates, but the quality and longevity may not be up to par with a senior stylist or specialist. So, in the end, investing in an experienced stylist can mean the difference between natural-looking and longer-lasting results and extensions that don’t blend and hold up well.

Salon reputation

hair extensions cost - Girl getting hair extensions at a salon for a new lookGetting hair extensions at a salon. (Source: iStock)

When looking through hair extensions salon price lists in the UK, you’ll see a clear trend: premium salons and well-known boutiques charge higher rates due to their use of quality products and having pro stylists. These salons may also provide a more luxurious experience, including custom colour matching, high-grade extensions, and guarantees for their services.

Local or lesser-known salons may offer similar services for less, but the quality of both the hair and the results can vary. In some cases, salons without an established reputation might use lower-grade products or offer less personalised services. However, opting for these salons could still be a viable choice if you’re on a strict budget.

Additional services

Additional services Average costs

Extension removal

£40 to £160

Washing and blow-drying

£40 to £110

Hair treatments

£25 to £210

Refitting and adjustments

£40 to £160

Styling

£20 to £60

Colouring

£40 to £160

Consultation

£30 to £60

Hair extensions usually require extra services as well. For instance, extension removal ranges from £40 to £160, depending on the extension type and salon. 

Since different extensions like tape-ins, nano-rings, or fusion bonds have different removal processes, costs vary by method. More intricate types, like fusion bonds, may require special solutions to break down keratin bonds, which can push the cost up.

Meanwhile, a wash and blow-dry typically costs between £40 and £110. Hair treatments like keratin smoothing can go as high as £210, too.

You’ll also spend around £20 to £60 for styling—whether it’s for a haircut, braiding, curling, straightening, or even getting dreadlocks. If you want to colour your extensions, you can expect to pay between £40 and £160, too. 

Consultations before getting extensions are sometimes free, but fees can range from £30 to £60 in some hair salons. Some deduct the fee from the final bill if you proceed with the installation.

Maintenance costs

Maintenance needs
Average costs

Maintenance appointments

£40 to £160+

Hair care products

Shampoos and conditioners: £15 to £35 per bottle

Detangling sprays: £15 to £25 per bottle

Heat protectants: £15 to £25 per bottle

Deep conditioning masks: £20 to £55 per jar

Potential repairs

Tape replacement: £25 to £55 per pack

Ring reattachment: £15 to £25 per pack

Extension replacement: £350 to £1,000

Daily care and styling

£15 to £80

Maintaining your hair extensions keeps them looking fresh and prevents damage. Appointments for semi-permanent extensions like tape-ins, micro-rings, and wefts generally cost between £40 and £160 every 6–8 weeks. 

Besides the salon visits, specific products are necessary to maintain both the integrity of the extensions and your natural hair. Shampoos and conditioners, particularly sulphate-free ones, can cost £15 to £35 per bottle, while heat protectants and deep conditioning masks can cost between £15 and £55. Additionally, if any parts of the extensions need repair, such as tape replacements or ring reattachments, costs can go from £15 to £55.

Daily care is also important to consider. Specialised tools like extension brushes and silk pillowcases are recommended to prevent tangling. These can cost you around £10 to £50 but can extend the lifespan of your extensions significantly. 

How do I choose the right hair extensions for my budget?

hair extensions cost - Various types and colors of hair extensions availableDifferent kinds and colors of hair extensions. (Source: iStock)

Choosing a hair extension can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance quality, style, and budget. But the key is to think about both the upfront cost and the long-term expenses. Here are some tips to help you find extensions that fit your budget without compromising the look you want:

  • Consider your budget and prioritise your goals: Figure out how much hair extensions are within your budget and what you want to achieve. If you’re after a temporary change, clip-ins or synthetic hair extensions are the most affordable options. But if you’re looking for something that lasts, consider investing in tape-ins or nano-rings with human Remy hair.

  • Consult with a stylist: They can assess your natural hair type and help you choose the most suitable extension for it.  

  • Balance quality with affordability: Spending more upfront for high-quality extensions can actually save you money over time. Human hair extensions might seem pricey, but they last longer and look more natural than synthetic ones.

  • Choose a method that fits your lifestyle: Your lifestyle plays a big role in choosing the right extensions. For example, if you prefer something easy, clip-ins or wefts are great since you can remove them daily and style them as needed. 

  • Be realistic about your expectations: Align your expectations with what you can afford. If your budget is tight, focus on adding volume or subtle length rather than going for a full transformation. Stick to shades close to your natural hair colour to avoid extra costs for custom colouring or blending.

What are some ways to save on hair extensions?

Hair extensions can be a big investment, but there are practical ways to save money without cutting corners on quality. Here are some quick tips to help you stay on budget:

  • Set a budget before you start, considering not only the installation but also other additional services you might need, maintenance and products.

  • Look for promotions and deals. Take advantage of seasonal sales, bundle packages, or referral discounts.

  • Consider more affordable hair extensions. Choose clip-ins, synthetic extensions, or medium lengths instead of very long ones.

  • Maintain your extensions properly. Use quality hair care products and follow the maintenance schedule.

  • Learn to wash, detangle, and style your extensions at home.

  • Buy directly from suppliers or trusted online stores to save money.

What should you look for in a professional hair stylist?

hair extensions cost - Hair stylist working with a girl in a salonHair stylist applying extensions in a salon. (Source: iStock)

The key to getting the best results for your hair extensions and ensuring your natural hair stays healthy is finding a good hair stylist. Here are some quick tips to help you in your search:

  1. Check credentials and experience. Look for stylists with certifications and years of experience, especially for professional hair extensions like nano-rings or fusion bonds.

  2. Look at reviews and recommendations. Check the web and social media for client feedback, or ask friends for recommendations.

  3. Schedule a consultation. Ask about your hair type, lifestyle, and desired results, and see if the stylist explains everything clearly.

  4. Look for transparency in pricing. Make sure the stylist gives a detailed quote upfront, with no hidden fees.

  5. Observe the salon environment. The salon should be clean, and the staff should be friendly and attentive.

  6. Make sure that they can handle your hair type. For example, if you have curly hair, look for a hairdresser who has experience in styling such types.

  7. Ask about aftercare support. Look for stylists who provide aftercare instructions and affordable maintenance packages.

Find a hair extension expert on Airtasker

We've covered all the key points, from types of extensions, factors affecting the costs, down to tips for picking a skilled stylist. All that’s left for you to do is plan for maintenance and aftercare expenses to make sure your extensions stay beautiful over time.

If you’re ready to get started but feeling overwhelmed, why not hire a hair extension specialist through Airtasker? You can find experienced professionals who can help you achieve the look you want without breaking the bank. Post a task today and meet Taskers ready to transform your hair.

Learn more about our contributors

Angela A.

Written by Angela A.

Staff Writer

Angela Apolonio is an experienced writer with a Biology background. She writes about home tips, car upkeep, gardening hacks, and food facts, bringing a unique blend of science and practicality to her work. As a wife and a mother, she knows the value of iron-clad routines, so she's passionate about sharing what works for her with everyone else. She loves making everyday life simpler and helping readers find fresh ideas to bring more joy into their spaces.

FAQs on hair extension costs

The cost of hair extensions in Manchester varies by type, salon, and stylist expertise, but the average is between £160 and £960.

In Nottingham, hair extension prices range from £85 to £450. This is slightly lower compared to larger cities like London.

Yes, but it’s important to use sulphate-free products and wash gently to avoid damaging the bonds. Washing 2–3 times a week is ideal.

Maintenance costs in the UK vary by type. Tape-ins are £70 to £140, nano-rings or micro-rings are £80 to £150, and wefts are £50 to £100 per row. All are typically done every 6–8 weeks.

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