In Wickham, the Hair Extensions professionals listed here also serve the nearby towns of Waltham Chase, Whiteley, Soberton, Swanmore. Contact any of them directly on WhatsApp — no middleman, no commission.
About Hair Extensions
How colour matching really works
A correct match compares the mid-lengths and ends, not just the roots, because extensions sit below the crown. The stylist should hold 3 to 4 swatches under natural light. If highlights are present, two or three tones may be blended. Mismatched colour is one of the most common complaints after a fitting.
How much hair you actually need
Most full-head applications use between 100 and 150 grams of hair, depending on length and desired density. Fine hair usually needs fewer grams to avoid tension at the roots. The stylist should weigh the bundles in front of you. Adding too much weight is a frequent cause of traction damage.
How long a fitting appointment takes
A full tape-in application takes about 1 to 2 hours. Micro-ring or keratin bond fittings run 3 to 5 hours for a full head. Touch-ups and repositioning usually take 1 to 2 hours. Ask the salon to confirm the expected duration so you can plan around it properly.
What maintenance and refits involve
Tape-in rows must be re-taped or moved up every 6 to 8 weeks. Keratin bonds slide down with growth and need full removal plus reapplication every 3 to 4 months. Micro-rings are repositioned in 45 to 90 minute sessions. Skipping refits causes matting near the scalp and tangling at the attachments.
How to wash and brush extensions safely
Use sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner from mid-lengths down only. Brush with a loop brush or wide-tooth comb starting at the ends, working upward in small sections. Avoid sleeping with wet hair. Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction, which is a leading cause of premature shedding.
Heat styling and colouring limits
Most human-hair extensions tolerate heat up to 180 degrees Celsius. Bleach lightens them but weakens the fibre, so lift by no more than one level. Repeated toners shorten lifespan. Always ask the stylist to perform a strand test before any colour service on attached extensions.
What health and scalp risks to watch for
Tension alopecia appears as thin patches along the parting or temples. Redness, itching or small bumps near the attachments usually signal a reaction to adhesive or metal. Heavy wefts pulling on fine hair can cause breakage. Request a pull test before any installation begins to reduce risks.
What usually drives the price up or down
Method, hair grade and length are the main cost drivers. Tape-in starts lower per gram; keratin bond costs more in labour. Hair longer than 50 cm is priced higher. The number of grams applied also matters. Always request a breakdown showing hair cost, fitting time and any future refits.
Questions to ask before you book
Ask which brand and grade of hair is used, how many grams will be applied, and who performs the fitting. Request before and after photos of similar hair types. Confirm the refit schedule, total cost per session, and what happens if a bond or tape slips within the first week.
Red flags that signal poor work
Visible glue residue, bonds sitting too close to the scalp, and uneven lengths after blending are warning signs. Hair that tangles within days of fitting usually indicates non-remy fibre. Refusal to show the hair packet or to weigh it is another concern. Trust only stylists who document the process clearly.