Hey there! If you’re reading this, you’re probably dreaming about that fuller, longer, swooshy hair you see all over Instagram, right? I totally get it. I’m a Colorado-based stylist with over fifteen years behind the chair, and I’ve installed thousands of sets of extensions. I’ve also fixed hundreds of horror stories from people who went to the wrong place. Today I’m spilling everything I wish someone had told me (and my clients) when I first started specializing in volume and length.
Let’s talk about how to find a truly great salon for extensions, because not all of them are created equal.
Why Extensions Are Different Than Regular Color or Cuts
Most salons can do a decent balayage or bob, but extensions are a whole different world. You’re literally attaching someone else’s hair to yours for months at a time. If it’s done poorly, you can end up with breakage, matting, or a line of demarcation that screams “I’m wearing fake hair!” That’s why choosing the right place matters so much more than it does for a simple trim.
The Consultation Is Everything
Here’s my biggest piece of advice: never book an extension appointment without a free in-person or video consultation first. A good salon will always want to touch your hair, check density, talk about your daily routine, and do a strand test. I’ve worked at places that skip this step, and trust me, it leads to problems later.
During the consultation, pay attention to whether the stylist is asking you questions or just trying to sell you the most expensive method. A great stylist wants to know: How do you wear your hair daily? Do you work out a lot? Do you love ponytails? All of these things affect which method will work best for you.
If you’re in Colorado, stop by a reputable hair salon that actually takes the time to do this properly. It makes all the difference.
The Methods You’ll Hear About (And Which Ones Actually Last in Colorado’s Dry Climate)
Colorado’s air is brutal on hair, natural and extension alike. Humidity is basically zero, so certain methods that work great in Florida can slip or dry out here in six weeks.
Here’s what actually holds up in our climate:
- Hand-tied wefts – My personal favorite for most clients. They lie flat, feel light, and let you wear a high ponytail without anyone knowing.
- Tape-ins – Fast to install, great for adding density if you already have length.
- K-tip (keratin bonds) – Amazing for super fine hair when done by someone who really knows what they’re doing.
- I-tip (micro links) – Good for clients who want zero heat or glue, but they require more maintenance.
- Clip-ins – Perfect if you only want volume for special occasions.
A top salon will offer at least three of these methods and explain why one might be better for your hair than another.
Red Flags – Run the Other Way If You See These
I hate seeing people waste thousands of dollars, so here are the warning signs I tell all my friends to watch for:
- They quote you a price over the phone without seeing your hair.
- They only offer one method (usually the cheapest or whatever the owner got certified in years ago).
- The stylist has zero extension-specific photos in their portfolio.
- They use the word “cheap” anywhere in their marketing.
- They pressure you to book six months of move-ups on the spot.
What to Look For in a Portfolio
Open Instagram and scroll. You’re looking for:
- Before and immediate after photos (not just the pretty “after” six weeks later when it’s styled perfectly).
- Blends on clients with your hair color and texture.
- High ponytails and updos that still look seamless.
- Clients with fine hair who suddenly have volume without looking bulky at the top.
Pricing – What’s Normal in Colorado Right Now
A full head of professional hair extensions with installation in Colorado usually starts around $800 and can go up to $2,500+ depending on length, thickness, and method. Yes, that sounds like a lot, but good hair isn’t cheap and cheap hair isn’t good. The difference between a $700 set and a $1,400 set is usually about two extra months of wear and way less tangling.
Maintenance – The Part Nobody Talks About
Here’s the truth: extensions are an investment, but they’re also a commitment. You’ll be back every 6-10 weeks for a move-up, and you’ll need to brush them like your life depends on it (because your real hair’s health does).
Ask any salon what their move-up prices are before you commit. Some places charge $200, others $500. It adds up fast.
The Game-Changer: Custom Coloring
The absolute best salons don’t just install the extensions – they custom color them to match your hair perfectly. This is non-negotiable if you want that “I woke up like this” blend. Look for places that keep a color bar specifically for extension hair.
If you want to see what a flawless custom blend looks like, check out some of the work on this Hair Extensions page. It’s the kind of result you should expect from a top-tier salon.
How Location Plays a Role in Colorado
Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and the mountain towns all have different vibes. Denver tends to have the most cutting-edge stylists because we get education from both coasts. Boulder leans more natural and organic (great if you want subtle, lived-in volume). The mountains have fewer options, so people often drive two hours for someone they trust.
Wherever you are in the state, it’s worth traveling for the right stylist. I have clients who drive from Grand Junction because they got burned once and never want to repeat it.
Questions to Ask on the Phone or DM
- How many extension clients do you do per week?
- What brands of hair do you carry?
- Can I see recent before-and-afters of someone with hair like mine?
- Do you offer a consultation and strand test?
- What’s your policy if I don’t love the blend?
If they hesitate on any of these, keep looking.
My Final Advice After 15 Years Doing This
Your hair is literally attached to your head 24/7. Don’t choose a salon based on price or proximity alone. Find someone who treats extensions like the specialty they are, who gets excited talking about beaded rows and root smudging, who will text you back at 9 p.m. when you’re freaking out about a weird bump in your weft.
When you find that person, stick with them. I still have clients who started with me ten years ago for their wedding hair and now bring their teenage daughters in for their first set.
You deserve hair that makes you feel like the most confident version of yourself. Take your time, do the consultation, and don’t settle.
If you’re in Colorado and ready to start the process the right way, book a consultation with someone who actually lives and breathes this stuff. Your future self (and your hair) will thank you.
FAQs
1. How do I know if a salon is actually good at extensions?
Look for a dedicated extension menu on their website, hundreds of before-and-afters (especially on fine or thin hair), and stylists who list specific certifications like Habit Hand-Tied, Bellami, or Great Lengths.
2. Are tape-ins or hand-tied wefts better for Colorado’s dry climate?
Hand-tied wefts usually win here because they’re sewn in and don’t rely on adhesive that can dry out and slip in low humidity. Tape-ins can work great if they use the newest generation of medical-grade tape and you’re diligent about maintenance.
3. How much should I expect to spend on great extensions in Colorado?
For a full, seamless head of professional hair extensions that last 9-12 months with proper care, budget $1,200-$2,200 including hair and installation. Anything significantly lower usually means lower quality hair or less experienced installation.
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