Wondering what hair extensions cost in London? We break down the factors that influence price and why quality and origin matter more than just the number on the bill.
If you’ve been researching hair extensions in London, you’ve probably noticed a huge range in prices. Some salons advertise “full head” extensions for a few hundred pounds, while others charge over a thousand. So what drives this difference — and how do you know whether you’re paying fairly for what you get?
At Tatiana Karelina, we believe transparency is essential. Extensions are an investment, and understanding what influences the cost will help you choose wisely.
Factors That Influence Price
1. Type of Hair Used
The single biggest factor is the origin and quality of the hair. Mass-produced Chinese and Indian hair is cheaper to buy, but it is heavily processed, coated in silicone, and often only lasts a few months. Genuine Russian ponytail hair — which we use exclusively — is far more expensive to source, but it remains soft, strong, and reusable for up to two years.
Don’t Be Fooled
Some salons use Chinese or Indian hair but charge Russian-hair prices, padding their profits while giving you a product that won’t last. Always ask about the origin. If a salon can’t or won’t disclose it, that’s a red flag. You should never be paying Russian-hair prices for lower-quality alternatives.
2. Application Method
Different methods take different amounts of time and skill. Micro bonds and micro rings are applied strand by strand and require precision, while wefts or clip-ins can be faster. The method you choose will influence the cost of fitting.
3. Length and Volume
Longer hair requires more grams, and therefore more cost. Likewise, if your goal is dramatic volume rather than subtle thickness, you’ll need more hair overall.
4. Customisation
Extensions should never be “off the shelf.” At Tatiana Karelina, we tip all hair in-house and blend from multiple ponytails to create the perfect colour and texture match. This level of craftsmanship is part of what separates quality salons from lower-cost providers.
5. Maintenance and Aftercare
High-quality hair lasts longer, but all extensions require maintenance. Factoring in upkeep every 6–8 weeks is important when budgeting. Many of our clients opt for our TK365 package, which combines a set of extensions with three maintenance appointments across the year, spreading the cost more predictably.
Why Cheap Isn’t Always Cheaper
While budget options may look appealing, they often cost more in the long run. If your extensions tangle, matt, or lose their shine after a few washes, you’ll need to replace them sooner — meaning you pay twice. Russian hair, by contrast, is reusable and retains its integrity over time, making it a far better investment.
The Tatiana Karelina Difference
- Only genuine Russian ponytails — soft, strong, and long-lasting
- In-house tipping for micro rings and bonds
- Custom blends from several ponytails for natural colour depth
- Texture matching for straight, wavy, or curly hair
- Expert application and aftercare from stylists with nearly two decades of experience
Final Word
In London, hair extensions can cost anywhere between £400 and £1,200 or more. The difference lies not just in the number of strands, but in the quality of the hair and the expertise of the salon. Don’t be fooled by salons padding their profits by selling processed Chinese or Indian hair at Russian-hair prices. At Tatiana Karelina, you’re not just buying extensions — you’re investing in hair that looks natural, feels beautiful, and lasts.
