Hair Extensions 101: What You Need to Know Before You Book
Let’s clear something up: hair extensions aren’t just for influencers, celebs, or women trying to make a drastic change. They’re for anyone who wants more volume, length, thickness — or simply wants to love the way their hair looks.
But not all extensions are created equal. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and if you’re new to the world of hair extensions, it can feel overwhelming.
At Art Works Salon in Ellijay, we specialize in premium, healthy, custom-fit hair extensions using brands we trust — like Halo Couture and Cinderella Extensions. Whether you’re extension-curious or ready to book, this guide will give you the facts you need to feel confident in your choice.
What Can Hair Extensions Actually Do?
Hair extensions can:
- Add length if your hair grows slowly
- Create volume for thinning or fine hair
- Help grow out a bad cut or damage
- Add dimension without chemically coloring your real hair
- Give you more options for styling — buns, waves, ponytails, etc.
They’re not just a “look,” they’re a solution — and a confidence booster.
Who Are Hair Extensions For?
You might be surprised — many of our extension clients are:
- Moms dealing with postpartum hair loss
- Women in their 40s–60s who’ve noticed thinning with age
- Clients with breakage from over-processing or past damage
- Anyone preparing for a big event (wedding, photo shoot, vacation)
- Busy professionals who want easy, polished styles
You don’t need waist-length hair or a Kardashian budget. You need a stylist who knows what they’re doing and a product that protects your natural hair.
The Different Types of Hair Extensions (In a Nutshell)
There are dozens of methods, but here’s a breakdown of the ones we trust and offer:
✅ Halo Extensions (by Halo Couture)
- Removable — you clip them in and take them out as needed
- No glue, no tape, no damage
- Great for special events or occasional wear
- Low maintenance
- Ideal for those who want a temporary boost
✅ Tape-In Extensions
- Installed by sandwiching your hair between adhesive strips
- Lasts 6–8 weeks before re-taping is needed
- Lightweight, flat, and comfortable
- Great for medium to fine hair clients
✅ Hand-Tied Extensions
- Wefts sewn into small, beaded rows
- More natural movement and better blend for thick hair
- Requires more maintenance and a skilled stylist
- Ideal for long-term wear and full transformations
✅ Cinderella Extensions
- A professional, keratin-bonded method that offers longevity
- Applied strand-by-strand for a custom blend
- Great for density, dimension, and seamless wear
- Must be removed by a trained stylist to prevent damage
What’s the Maintenance Like?
Here’s the deal: hair extensions are an investment — and they need upkeep.
That might include:
- Reinstalls every 6–8 weeks (for tape-ins or hand-tied)
- Brushing daily with the right tool
- Using sulfate-free, extension-safe shampoos
- Avoiding heat near the bonds or tape
- Coming in for maintenance appointments to keep them blended, clean, and secure
We’ll walk you through all of that, don’t worry — but know that great extensions require a little love to stay gorgeous.
How Much Do Hair Extensions Cost?
This depends on:
- The type of extension
- The amount of hair used (volume + length)
- The brand of hair (we only use salon-grade, real human hair)
- The install method and time required
At Art Works, we’ll always provide an upfront quote after a consultation. You’ll never be surprised by the cost, and we’ll work with your goals and budget to make sure you walk out feeling like yourself — just elevated.
Can Extensions Damage Your Hair?
When done by an inexperienced stylist? Yes.
When done correctly, with the right products and guidance? Absolutely not.
In fact, some of our clients grow out healthier, fuller hair underneath their extensions because they’re not heat-styling or chemically treating as often.
We’re trained in multiple methods and certified by brands like Halo Couture and Cinderella. We won’t install anything that doesn’t suit your hair type, and we won’t rush the process. Your real hair health comes first, always.
Final Thoughts from Tai
Hair extensions can be life-changing — not because they transform who you are, but because they help you see yourself the way you want to be seen.
Whether you’re going for long, beachy layers, a bombshell ponytail, or just a bit more “oomph” when you run your fingers through your hair — we’re here to make it happen. With integrity. With artistry. And with hair that looks (and feels) like your own.