Extensions Belong at the Core of Our Craft
Owner of Urban Hair & Beauty, Marlene Lamont Shares her thoughts with us.
After more than 40 years in the industry and over two decades running my own salon, I’ve seen trends come and go, but one thing that’s never changed is the importance of inclusivity. Hairdressing is about making people feel good, and that starts with ensuring every client has access to every service, including hair extensions.
My mission has always been to make extensions more inclusive, not just for clients, but for stylists too.
Extensions shouldn’t be treated as a luxury add-on; they deserve the same status as colour, cutting, or styling.
In my salon, extensions are an essential part of what we do, and I make sure my team are fully trained and confident in offering these services to every client who walks through the door.
Too often, people think of extensions as something reserved for special occasions, and while they’re fantastic for creating those “wow” moments, they also serve a much deeper purpose. Many clients come to us dealing with thinning hair, hair loss, or changes during menopause. Extensions and hair toppers can completely transform how they feel about themselves. The same goes for men; the demand for men’s hair replacement solutions is growing rapidly, and it’s an exciting space both creatively and commercially.
Quality and standards are key. Whatever the method, tapes, bonds, wefts, the craftsmanship and the quality of hair should always be exceptional. The consultation process is just as important.
It’s not only about selecting the right method, but also understanding a client’s lifestyle, maintenance expectations, and comfort level.
Education plays a massive role in maintaining these standards. In our salon, education is ongoing, we share knowledge, learn together, and evolve as a team. It’s this culture of learning that allows stylists to build confidence, creativity, and consistency.
The world of extensions has evolved dramatically in recent years, from the quality of the hair to the comfort of the techniques. It’s time that evolution was reflected in how we train new stylists. Extensions should be part of the core hairdressing curriculum, not an optional extra. They are a fundamental part of modern hairdressing, and the next generation of professionals should be equipped with these skills from the start.
In our business, we’ve also found ways to integrate extension training into day-to-day salon life.
For example, we offer clients who’ve had extensions fitted a half-price blow-dry service. Clients love the added value, and it gives younger stylists valuable hands-on experience working with extensions, a perfect blend of education and commercial opportunity.
For me, extensions sit at the heart of what hairdressing is all about: creativity, confidence, and inclusivity. They’re not just about long hair; they’re about giving every client the chance to love their hair again.
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