Hair Extension Cost Calculator
When it comes to Hair extensions are artificial strands added to natural hair to add length, volume, or color, the Kardashian family has turned them into a signature look that fuels countless Instagram scrolls. Everyone wonders how they keep the volume so flawless and which brands actually sit under those glossy locks. Below you’ll find the exact extensions the sisters favor, the type of application each prefers, and practical tips to get similar results without a Hollywood budget.
Quick Takeaways
- Kylie and Kim mainly trust Great Lengths keratin‑bonded extensions for a seamless blend.
- Khloé and Kourtney favor Hotheads tape‑ins because they’re quick to install and easy to remove.
- Clip‑ins from Bellami are the go‑to for occasional volume boosts.
- Maintenance is the real game‑changer - regular brushing, sulfate‑free shampoos, and heat‑protectants keep extensions looking fresh.
- Expect to spend $150‑$300 per install, plus $70‑$120 for each follow‑up appointment.
Understanding Extension Types
The Kardashians don’t all use the same method. Knowing the differences helps you pick the right one for your lifestyle.
- Keratin‑bonded (fusion): Small strands of hair are fused to your own with a keratin‑based glue. The result is ultra‑natural, but the process can take 4‑6 hours and lasts 3‑6 months.
- Tape‑in: Thin, pre‑woven wefts are taped to the scalp. Installation is 2‑3 hours, and you can reuse the same wefts for up to 8 weeks if you handle them gently.
- Clip‑in: Removable wefts that snap onto your hair. They’re perfect for parties or photo shoots and can be applied in minutes.
- Micro‑link (micro‑bead): Tiny beads clamp the extensions to your natural strands. This method is quick and gives you the flexibility to reposition the extensions.
- Micro‑loop (micro‑ring): Similar to micro‑link but uses a looped ring instead of a bead. Less heat is involved, which many clients appreciate.
All Kardashian extensions are made from 100% Remy human hair - the highest quality, because synthetic fibers would look fake under close‑up cameras.
Brands the Kardashians Swear By
Through interviews, salon visits, and behind‑the‑scenes footage, these brands have been confirmed as the go‑to choices for the family.
Great Lengths - Kim & Kylie’s Favorite
Great Lengths pioneered the keratin‑bonded technique. Their Fusion line uses a titanium‑capped heating tool that fuses the extension to a tiny keratin bead. The result is a seamless blend that moves with natural hair. Kim Kardashian’s long, sleek ponytail is a classic Great Lengths showcase, while Kylie’s ever‑changing colors are achieved with their colored‑bond options.
Hotheads - Khloé & Kourtney’s Quick‑Fix
Hotheads specializes in tape‑ins that can be installed in under three hours. Their Pro Tape system uses a medical‑grade adhesive that’s safe for sensitive scalps. Khloé’s beach‑wave look often appears after a Hotheads session, where the tape‑ins add volume without the weight of fused extensions.
Bellami - The Clip‑In Specialist
Bellami’s clip‑ins are a favorite for the family when they need a rapid boost for a shoot. The brand offers a range of lengths from 10‑20 inches and a variety of shades that match the Kardashians’ ever‑changing hair colors. Bellami also runs a subscription box, which explains how frequently the sisters switch up their looks.
Luxy Hair - The Tension‑Free Tape‑In
Luxy Hair’s Lite Tape system uses a lighter adhesive that reduces tension on the scalp. While not a primary brand for the sisters, they’ve been spotted at Luxy pop‑up events, suggesting occasional use for low‑maintenance days.
Hollywood Hair - The Micro‑Link Go‑To
Hollywood Hair supplies the micro‑link and micro‑bead extensions that appear in many reality‑TV close‑ups. The tiny beads are virtually invisible under HD cameras, which is why the brand often appears in the background of the Kardashian’s Instagram reels.
Comparison Table: Kardashian‑Approved Extensions
| Brand | Primary Type | Price (per install) | Typical Wear Time | Notable Kardashian User |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Lengths | Keratin‑bonded (fusion) | $250‑$300 | 3‑6 months | Kim, Kylie |
| Hotheads | Tape‑in | $180‑$220 | 8‑10 weeks | Khloé, Kourtney |
| Bellami | Clip‑in | $120‑$150 (set) | Reusable (weeks) | All sisters (occasionally) |
| Luxy Hair | Tape‑in (lite) | $150‑$190 | 6‑8 weeks | Kris Jenner (low‑maintenance) |
| Hollywood Hair | Micro‑link / micro‑bead | $200‑$250 | 2‑4 months | Kim (camera work) |
How the Kardashians Maintain Their Length
Expensive extensions are only worth it if you treat them right. Here’s the routine the family follows, broken down into daily, weekly, and salon‑level steps.
Daily Care
- Gentle brushing: Use a wide‑tooth comb or a looped brush designed for extensions. Start at the ends and work upward to avoid pulling.
- Sulfate‑free shampoo: Sulfates strip natural oils, which can make extensions dry and brittle.
- Condition only the mid‑lengths: Apply a lightweight conditioner from the middle to the tips, never the roots, to keep the bonding area clean.
- Heat protection: A heat‑protect spray before any styling tool keeps the hair smooth and reduces breakage.
Weekly Maintenance
- Deep‑conditioning mask once a week (the same brand as the extensions for best compatibility).
- Loose the extensions with a light mist of warm water before detangling - this mimics a salon‑pre‑wash soak.
- Check the bonds or tapes for any lifting; replace any weak spots before they cause bigger damage.
Salon Visits
- Professional removal every 3‑4 months for keratin‑bonded extensions - a specialist uses a safe solvent that doesn’t hurt the scalp.
- Re‑installation or repositioning: the Kardashians typically book an appointment with celebrity‑preferred salons like Kim K Hair Studio in Los Angeles.
- Colour touch‑ups: Since many extensions are pre‑colored, salons use a low‑heat toning process to match the sisters’ ever‑changing hair shades.
Cost Breakdown - What to Expect
Everyone assumes celebrity hair is out of reach, but the price points can be mapped.
- Initial purchase: Buying a set of high‑quality human‑hair extensions runs $120‑$300, depending on length and brand.
- Installation: Professional installation ranges from $150 for tape‑ins to $300 for keratin‑bonded.
- Maintenance: Expect $70‑$120 per follow‑up appointment (re‑taping, adjusting, or touch‑up).
- Replacement: Extensions lose 10‑15% of length each year; budgeting $100‑$200 annually keeps them looking fresh.
When you add the Kardashians’ hidden cost - the premium salon environment - the total can reach $1,000‑$1,500 per year for a full‑time look.
Do You Need a Celebrity‑Level Extension?
If you love the volume but not the price tag, here are three budget‑friendly alternatives that give a similar payoff:
- DIY clip‑ins: Bellami sells kits starting at $70, and you can install them at home.
- Self‑tap tape‑ins: Brands like Vapper offer a “tap‑in” kit that lets you secure the tape yourself with a provided applicator.
- Hybrid approach: Combine short keratin‑bonded strands at the crown with longer clip‑ins at the ends for a natural gradient.
All of these ways let you enjoy Kardashian‑style volume without booking a Hollywood‑level stylist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which extension type lasts the longest?
Keratin‑bonded (fusion) extensions typically last 3‑6 months, making them the longest‑lasting option among the Kardashian‑favorite brands.
Can I color my extensions at home?
Yes, but only if the extensions are 100% human hair and you use a low‑heat dye kit. The Kardashians often rely on professionals to avoid damage.
How often should I wash extensions?
Wash them 2‑3 times a week with a sulfate‑free shampoo. Over‑washing can strip the bonding glue and make tape‑ins lift.
Do clip‑ins cause hair breakage?
When applied correctly and removed gently, clip‑ins are the least damaging. The key is to avoid pulling and to use clips with a smooth, padded base.
What’s the best brand for sensitive scalps?
Luxy Hair’s Lite Tape uses a hypoallergenic adhesive that’s gentler on sensitive skin, a choice Kris Jenner has mentioned in interviews.
Now you’ve got the full rundown of Kardashian hair extensions, from the exact brands they love to the everyday care that keeps them glossy. Whether you’re planning a red‑carpet look or just want extra volume for a week‑end brunch, the guide above shows you how to match the family’s style without a Hollywood budget.