Extensions Experts Chat
Interested in extensions but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you. We love adding inches, volume, and density to different types of hair length, colour and texture, with high-quality, ethically sourced extensions every time.
Tapes, wefts, bonds and clip-ins, major colour-matching and blendable shades. Here, our experts give the long and short of it and we serve up extensions inspo from our salons and our creative director Luke Pluckrose in a six minute read.
Newark: cascading coloured in-salon copper
EXTENSIONS DEEP DIVE… LET’S GO
Our quick 101…
Weft hair extensions – best for maxing volume and length (refit every 4–6 weeks). Wefts are sewn into the natural hair using beads or braids, offering a secure and long-lasting solution. They provide maximum volume and work best for thicker hair types that can support the weight of the extensions.
Tape hair extensions – best for quick application and a lightweight feel (refit every 4–6 weeks). Tape extensions feature thin adhesive wefts that blend seamlessly with natural hair. They are one of the most discreet extension methods and offer a lightweight, natural look.
Pre-bonded extensions – best for long-term and a natural finish (Last 3–4 months before requiring removal or reapplication). Pre-bonded extensions are applied using keratin bonds, which are fused to natural hair with heat. This method provides a natural look with minimal maintenance between appointments.
Micro ring extensions – best for a heat-free, discreet option (refit every 10–12 weeks). Micro ring extensions use small metal rings to attach the extensions without heat or glue. They are reusable, cost-effective, and gentle on natural hair. Since the rings are discreet, this method works well for most hair types but may not be suitable for very short or extremely fine hair.
Are extensions one-size-fits-all?
Sarah at Saks Guisborough: “Wefts can be used for adding length, volume or both – ideal for long-term and seamless blending. Beauty Works Professional Hair Extensions is our partner of choice and we also offer their express weft service, designed to elevate your hair with instant volume in under 20 minutes.”
Katy at Saks Northallerton: “Two stylists in our salon – Alex and Erin – have lived and breathed various types of extensions over the years. They both rate them, not only for adding length, but also for adding volume to fine hair. Using quality, ethically sourced extensions every time.”
Guisborough and Northallerton: Long blonde. Just so.
Zoe at Saks Hair Newark: “SO many variations that can be mixed together too. Sewn in wefts, invisible stick on wefts, quick fix clip-ins, nano bonds (tiny bonds), micro beads, tapes… for different hair types and styles.”
Maisie at Guisborough: “Agreed! Clip-ins are perfect for occasional wear with no commitment. We even have clip-in fringes for instant bangs!”
Attention please!
Unlike your natural hair, extensions don’t have a direct supply of nutrients, vitamins or minerals, so they require more maintenance and aftercare. With blonde shades needing a little more maintenance than darker shades, as they go through more processing to achieve gorgeous blonde tones.
On hair loss and thinning
A decrease in oestrogen levels during and after menopause may cause hair follicles to shrink contributing to hair loss and thinning. Quality hair extensions are a great option if you’re suffering from age-related, hormonal, medical or any type of hair thinning, with various methods and shades to create a seamless, natural blend and fuller look.
Michelle at Saks West Bridgford: “Hormonal changes can affect hair and extensions are fantastic for tackling thinning, loss of volume, and changing textures. With the right extensions and TLC, you can enjoy full-bodied hair at any age.”
Northallerton: volume et voila
Sarah: “We talk to women regularly on this topic, it can be stressful not having the hair we once had. Extensions may not be for everyone but it’s worth having a consultation to explore your choices. And if your hair is fragile, we’d recommend a pathway to strengthen it first regardless of if you choose extensions. The goal at Saks is always to enhance your hair, not compromise it.”
Something that people need to stop believing?
Michelle: “That they’re only for young women! We love how customers in their 40s upwards are rocking extensions in different lengths. At this stage in life, we’re often juggling a lot. It can get hectic and overwhelming. They can boost confidence, add glam to your day and save precious time when getting ready. Win-win-win!”
Katy: “I’d say that everyone wants and gets mermaid hair! We find that all age groups need a helping hand with thinning hair, some go for length, some volume. The stronger, fuller bob is very popular.”
Do they damage real hair?
Nikki at Saks Chester: “If applied correctly, using the appropriate application and then looked after at home with regular salon visits and good home care, they can actually support and aid natural hair growing in length and thickness!”
Major inspo from Luke’s Instagram grid
Tips for keeping them looking fresh?
Maisie: “Washing regularly with stylist-approved products will keep your extensions looking natural and your scalp clean and hydrated. Light hair oil is a must for maintaining longer, glossy locks. Brush daily. Your extension specialist will advise on how to make sure no damage occurs. And get regular touch-ups – sew-ins and tapes should be refitted every four to eight weeks.”
Zoe: “Never leave to dry naturally it’s not great for the bonds and can make it matted if you have a natural curl.”
On rinsing and drying properly…
When washing your extensions, there are a few things to remember. The first thing is to thoroughly rinse after washing. Otherwise, product can build up and make hair extensions sticky or waxy and prone to knotting. Secondly, never leave extensions to dry naturally, always blow dry!
On brushing…
Brush a couple of times during the day and at night brush and braid before bed. And be gentle. Professional extensions are attached to your natural hair, so pulling could result in pulling out your hair. Brush from the bottom and moving slowly to the top whilst holding your extensions at the top so as not to pull on them too much.
Guisborough: Weave refit same-length volume
Tell us about extensions in your salon…
Nikki: “When most people think extensions, they think of long, glam waves, but the long story isn’t the only story! The adaptability of extensions is often overlooked by people due to lack of knowledge. In one week alone I used extensions to add a fringe, create coloured highlights for a customer allergic to traditional hair colour and length for a customer recovering for medical hair loss. Not a mermaid in sight!
“Extensions can be tailored for anyone. A thorough, honest consultation is key, where your stylist will set out your commitment in terms of time and money, while also choosing the best option for ongoing maintenance, hair health and manageability.”
Nourishment need to knows?
Zoe “Invest in a sulphate free shampoo and a good quality conditioner. As we know sulphates create lather and cleanse our natural hair and scalp. Sulphates can break down the bonds of the extensions and affect the integrity of them. Kérastase has various options including the Chroma Absolu range.”
ALISTER STYLE
Our creative director, Luke Pluckrose has built a mega reputation as a sought-after session stylist by alisters for wow-factor hair to rock red carpets of the world. Rocking short, mid and long lengths for Jurnee Smollett and Eleanor Tomlinson here..
Maisie says “We love seeing all the looks Luke showcases on his Instagram grid. And we also reference Kim K for rocking sleek bobs to waist length in the blink of an eye. Ariana Grande – the queen of the high pony!
BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION
At Saks we offer a full-service package from consultation to colour matching and fitting with perfect placement for a seamless style and colour blend. Plus cutting and styling to create a gorgeous, finished look. With pro homecare advice and follow on appointment recommendations too. Curious? Book a free consultation today.
Credits:
Beauty Works Professional
Jurnee Smollett, Eleanor Tomlinson from Luke Pluckrose Instagram feed – see posts for credits.