Whether you're going for dramatic or lowkey, there is one major factor in determining the look of hair extensions...COLOR! If done right, no one is the wiser. These high-end services demand quality and Sierra & Sage’s 100% Remy hair extensions do not disappoint.
We sat down with Kenzie Maloney, hairstylist/educator specializing in hair extensions and color to discuss exactly how to achieve the perfect color match. With years of industry experience, Kenzie shares her 3 steps to giving your client natural-looking extensions.
Image by: Melissa Castaldy
Step 1: The consultation
As a stylist, you know just how unique each client is and that is especially true when we look at their hair. What combination of colors and levels as well as dimension makes up your client's beautiful mane? Are they the color they wish their extensions to be?
During the consultation you want to evaluate the color of your client's hair, whether you're working with virgin hair or treated hair, pay close attention to the roots, that color level will determine your base color. As a general rule, cooler skin tones look best with cool colors and warm skin colors with warm colors, of course, there are exceptions to this rule. Kenzie recommends having a color sample ring on hand to make this step a breeze, if you haven't ordered one yet, that's totally fine! Click the link for more information and hair extension color options.
In wrapping up your consultation you should have discussed the end goal and expectations. On occasion, a client will come in with specific requests and it's your responsibility to make your client happy while educating them on realistic outcomes.
Image by: Melissa Castaldy
Step 2: Building Dimension
The beauty of hair extensions is that you can add length and volume, but layering different colors of extensions on one client can completely change the overall outcome. Using different tones helps to create a natural-looking dimension. If you’re going to skip custom coloring your extensions and match them to your client's hair, right out of the bag, we believe that using 2-3 colors is best. With 27 shades and counting it's easy to use Sierra & Sage Hair to ensure each client receives a truly custom look without having to custom color!
“I always use a bricklayer technique, focusing darker colors on the underside while placing lighter colored wefts towards the front to frame your client's face.” -@styledbykenzie_
PRO TIP: Lightening the overall color without color treating your client's hair is simple. Use rooted colors and lighter tones throughout creating a balayage effect. If you prefer to custom color your extensions, a popular color choice when working with blondes is Sage, sage was specifically designed to fit a wide range of clients. Not only is this staple color beautiful, but it’s also easy to color and tones like a dream.
Image by: Melissa Castaldy
Step 3: Blend baby!
Time to get the shears out! After installation (get certified in the sierra and sage method) it's important to blend the natural hair with the extensions. By creating layers and texture you will ensure a natural-looking final product. We recommend using slide cutting and point cutting to create that seamless perfectly blended look. Utilizing this cutting technique helps to keep the length while creating texture and natural movement.
Always take into account your client's personal style and don’t forget to explain styling techniques. Your client is a walking billboard for your business, head on over to How to get the most out of your Hair Extensions to learn about tried and trusted maintenance and aftercare tips and suggestions.
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