How to Perfectly Match Hair Extensions to Your Natural Hair

Getting flawless hair extensions starts with choosing the right color match for your locks. Whether you want subtle length, volume, highlights, or a dramatic transformation, seamlessly blended extensions depend on an accurate color match. Follow this comprehensive guide to match extensions for all hair colors and styles.

Gather Tools for an Accurate Match

Start by assembling the right tools to assess and compare extension colors:

• Extension color swatch book or ring: Physical hair samples show true color and texture.

• Natural lighting: Match near windows or under bright overhead lights. Avoid shadows.

• Multi-tonal extensions: Subtle highlights and lowlights create dimension.

• Varied lengths: Match shortest and longest sections.

• Mirror: Fully inspect the back and sides.

• Magnification: Examine fine details up close.

• Photographs: Compare colors side-by-side.

• Multiple sets: Order 2-3 potential matches to choose from.

Evaluate Your Current Color

Carefully examine your natural hair color from roots to ends:

• Note variations: Identify subtle highlights and lowlights throughout your hair.

• Inspect closely: Your color likely shifts gradually from roots to tips.

• Check regrowth: New growth may be darker or lighter than the rest.

• Photograph hair: Capture all angles in different lighting to study later.

• Get a professional opinion: Ask your colorist for an experienced second set of eyes.

Match to Your Ends for Length

If you want extensions primarily for length:

• Focus on end color: Concentrate on perfectly matching the tips since that’s the part that will show when hair is down.

• Consider lighter extensions: Opt for shades lighter than your ends to seamlessly blend together.

• Use two tones: Custom mix a subtle highlight tone into your base extension color for dimension.

• Add lowlights later: Your stylist can add lowlights to extensions after installing them.

Match Roots for a Natural Look

To create a natural-looking full head of extensions focused on volume or highlights:

• Match roots exactly: Choose the shade that identical matches your regrowth for the most seamless grow out.

• Evaluate base color: Your roots likely won’t match the mid-length and ends, so also assess your overall base shade.

• Custom blend extensions: Mix together complementary highlight and lowlight extension colors that match your hair’s overall look.

• Focus on upper layers: Concentrate the customized highlight mix on top and mid-head pieces.

Go Lighter for Versatility

If you’re between two potential extension colors:

• Select the lighter shade: You can’t lighten extensions after, but you can add lowlights.

• Err on the highlighted side: Subtly brighter extensions blend better than too dark.

• Customize after: Have your stylist add toner or lowlights to the extensions once installed for perfect matching.

• Use temporarily: Lighter clip-ins or tapes help you preview a color before committing to a permanent install.

Perfect an Ombre Blend

To seamlessly extend an existing ombre or create a new one:

• Match roots precisely: Ensure the top shade identical matches your regrowth.

• Custom blend mid-lengths: Mix complementary tones to gradually progress from dark to light.

• Focus onAccuracy: Taking time to customize the perfect ombre blend is worth it.

• Refine after: Your colorist can tweak the blend with highlights and lowlights as needed after install.

Evaluate in Natural Light

The most foolproof way to assess extension color is by:

• Testing in daylight: View swatches by a window with indirect sun if possible.

• Seeing all angles: Turn and tilt swatches to check the color from all directions.

• Photographing comparisons: Capture test swatches alongside your hair for later scrutiny.

• Studying over time: Keep extension samples you’re considering to view in varied lighting.

Order Multiple Sets to Choose

To get your perfect color match:

• Order 2-3 potential shades: It’s common to need sets in different colors to select the ideal one.

• Never dye extensions: Remy and virgin hair you receive can’t be lightened, only toned or darkened.

• Return others: Send back unused extension sets within policies to only pay for the best match.

• Rotate pairs: Use 2 well-blended extension sets on alternate sessions to minimize stress on your natural hair long term.

Refine the Match After Install

Your colorist can help refine the match after extensions are installed by:

• Adding highlights or lowlights: Precisely customize color precisely for a flawless blend.

• Toning: Adjust the shade slightly darker or lighter.

• Precision cutting: Expertly texturize and blend lengths.

• Balayage: Hand-paint new color subtly from mid-shaft down to ends.

Maintain the Color Balance

Once your extensions match seamlessly keep them looking natural by:

• Using color-safe shampoo: Choose a gentle, sulfate-free formula.

• Skipping harsh chemicals: Avoid bleach, perm solutions, etc.

• Using purple shampoo cautiously: Start with once a week to avoid over-toning.

• Visiting your colorist: Have them tweak your blend as your natural hair color evolves.

The time you take to meticulously color match extensions pays off in beautiful, natural-looking hair for months. Consult experienced stylists, invest in multiple sets, and don’t compromise on finding your perfect shade. Seamlessly blended extensions depend entirely on you choosing the ideal color match for your unique hair. With care and patience, you can achieve flawless results.