We Get It. Extensions Are a Big Decision.
If you've been thinking about hair extensions, you probably have a million questions. How long do they last? Will they damage my hair? What's the real cost? We hear these every single day at our studio in downtown Boise. So we're laying it all out here. No fluff, no vague answers. Just the stuff you actually need to know before you sit in our chair.
The Three Methods We Offer (and Why We Chose Them)
We don't carry every extension method on the market. We've narrowed it down to three that we trust with our clients' hair. Each one works differently, looks different, and suits different hair types. Here's the breakdown.
Genius Wefts
Genius wefts are the thinnest, flattest weft extensions available right now. They're machine-made with a sealed edge, so there's zero shedding and they lay completely flat against your head. If you want volume and length but hate the idea of feeling anything in your hair, these are your best bet. They're great for fine to medium hair because they don't create bulk at the attachment point. Most of our clients forget they're even wearing them after the first day.
Hand-Tied Wefts
Hand-tied wefts are exactly what they sound like. Each weft is sewn by hand, making them lightweight and flexible. They move naturally with your hair and work well for medium to thick hair types. Because the weft itself has more give, it contours to your head shape really nicely. These are our most popular method for clients who want that full, blended look without any stiffness. We install them using a beaded row technique, so there's no glue, no heat, and no damage to your natural hair.
K-Tips (Keratin Tips)
K-tips are individual strand extensions bonded with a small keratin tip near the root. They're the most versatile method we offer. If you wear your hair up a lot, if you have a lifestyle where you need extensions that are basically invisible from every angle, k-tips are the move. They're also ideal for adding density in specific areas without committing to full wefts. The bonds are tiny and you can style your hair in any direction without worrying about exposing attachment points. Installation takes longer than wefts, but the payoff is worth it.
How Do You Know Which Method Is Right for You?
Honestly? You don't have to figure that out on your own. That's what our Enhancement Method consultation is for.
Every new extension client starts with a $50 consultation. During that appointment, we assess your hair type, density, texture, and overall health. We talk about your goals. Do you want length? Volume? Both? We look at your lifestyle too. Are you in the gym every day? Do you wear updos for work? All of that matters.
We'll recommend the method and the amount of hair that makes sense for you specifically. Not a one-size-fits-all approach. The $50 consultation fee gets applied directly to your extension service when you book, so it's not an extra cost. Think of it as a deposit that guarantees we do this right the first time.
What Does Maintenance Look Like?
Let's be real about this. Extensions are not a "set it and forget it" thing. They require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and to protect your natural hair.
For weft extensions (both genius and hand-tied), you'll come back every 6 to 8 weeks for a move-up appointment. As your hair grows, the attachment points shift down. We move the rows back up to where they should be, check the condition of your extensions, and make sure everything is secure. These appointments typically take about an hour.
K-tips last a bit longer between maintenance visits. You're looking at every 3 to 4 months for a full reinstall. We remove the old bonds, clean everything up, and reapply with fresh keratin.
Between salon visits, you'll need to use sulfate-free shampoo, brush with a loop brush daily, and be gentle when your hair is wet. We'll walk you through all of this at your installation appointment and send you home with a care guide.
Let's Talk Money
We believe in being upfront about pricing because nobody likes surprises when the bill comes. Extension pricing at Solvi depends on three things: the method, the amount of hair needed, and the length.
Your initial installation includes the cost of the hair itself plus the labor for installation. Move-up appointments are a separate cost since they don't require new hair. We'll give you a complete price breakdown during your consultation so you know exactly what you're investing before you commit.
Here's our honest advice: don't shop for extensions based on the lowest price. Cheap hair tangles, mattes, and doesn't last. Cheap installation damages your natural hair. We've seen so many clients come in after a bad experience somewhere else, and the cost to fix the damage always exceeds what they "saved" in the first place. Quality hair and skilled installation are the two things you should never cut corners on.
Why Installation Quality Matters More Than You Think
A great set of extensions installed poorly will look terrible. And a poor installation can cause traction alopecia, breakage, and long-term damage that takes years to grow out. We've seen it. It's heartbreaking.
Proper placement matters. Tension matters. The number of rows, the spacing, the way each weft is secured. All of it affects how your extensions look, feel, and how your natural hair holds up underneath. This is technical work. It requires training, experience, and an understanding of hair structure that goes way beyond watching a YouTube tutorial.
Every extension installation at Solvi follows a specific protocol. We don't rush. We don't overload your hair with more weight than it can handle. And we check every single attachment point before you leave.
Living in Boise? Your Extensions Need Extra Care.
Idaho's climate is dry. Like, really dry. And that affects your extensions more than you might think. Natural hair gets moisture from your scalp, but extensions don't have that advantage. The dry Boise air, especially in winter, can make extension hair feel rough, tangly, and dull if you're not proactive about moisture.
Here's what we tell every extension client in Boise:
- Use a leave-in conditioner every single day. This is non-negotiable in our climate. A lightweight spray or cream keeps the mid-lengths and ends hydrated.
- Deep condition weekly. A hydrating mask once a week makes a massive difference. Focus it on the extensions themselves, not the bonds or wefts.
- Don't skip the hair oil. A few drops of argan or jojoba oil on your ends after styling keeps everything soft and prevents that dry, straw-like texture.
- Watch out for hard water. Boise's water is moderately hard, and mineral buildup can make extensions look flat and feel crunchy over time. A shower filter is a small investment that makes a big difference. We also recommend a clarifying wash once a month.
- Protect your hair from the sun. If you're hiking, skiing, or spending time outdoors (and you probably are, because Boise), UV exposure fades extension color faster than natural hair. A UV protectant spray or a hat goes a long way.
We customize our aftercare recommendations based on the season. What your extensions need in January is different from what they need in July. We'll keep you updated at every maintenance appointment.
Ready to Book?
If extensions have been on your mind, the first step is simple. Book your Enhancement Method consultation. We'll spend time with you one-on-one, figure out the best approach for your hair, and give you a clear plan with real numbers. No pressure. No guessing.
You can book online through our Vagaro page or call us directly. We're located at 104 South Capitol Boulevard, Suite 200, right in downtown Boise. We'd love to help you get the hair you've been thinking about.