Book Hair Appointment Online In Austin, TX
1100 South Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78704
The Collective ATX is located in Lamar Union shopping center, in front of Alamo Drafthouse.
Free, private, covered parking is available to all of our customers.
Inquire at booking and we will provide parking instructions.
Laura Perez
Consierge
With 16 years in the beauty industry, Laura is deeply passionate about helping clients look and feel their best. She began her career as a specialized haircutting expert, spending eight years perfecting her craft and developing an eye for detail. Now, as the manager of a thriving salon and a sought-after wedding hair specialist, Laura loves making brides feel radiant on their special day.
When she's not styling, Laura enjoys unwinding with her cat and dog and never passes up the chance to see live music. Whether crafting stunning looks or soaking in a concert, she brings creativity and passion to everything she does.
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1. Types of Extensions
Hand-Tied Wefts – Natural-looking, lightweight, and great for volume and length.
Tape-Ins – Quick application, but require more frequent maintenance.
Keratin Bonds – Long-lasting but require heat for application.
Clip-Ins – Temporary option for special occasions.
2. The Right Choice for You
Consider lifestyle, hair type, and maintenance level when choosing.
A consultation will help determine the best method for your hair goals.
3. Installation Process
Takes 2-4 hours, depending on the method and number of wefts.
Custom color matching ensures a seamless blend.
Proper sectioning and placement prevent damage.
4. Maintenance & Upkeep
Move-ups are required every 6-8 weeks (depending on the method).
Use sulfate-free shampoo to extend the life of the extensions.
Brush gently with an extension-safe brush to avoid tangling.
Avoid excessive heat at the root where the extensions are attached.
5. Longevity & Cost
High-quality extensions last 6-12 months with proper care.
Cost varies depending on length, density, and method, but expect an investment.
6. Styling & Everyday Wear
Extensions can be curled, straightened, and styled like natural hair.
Always blow-dry the roots after washing to prevent moisture buildup.
Sleep in a loose braid or ponytail to reduce tangling.
7. Can Extensions Damage Natural Hair?
When properly installed and maintained, extensions should not cause damage.
Regular maintenance and professional removal are crucial.
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1. Desired Look & Brightness
Full Highlight: Best for an all-over bright, dimensional look. Lightens hair throughout, including underneath. Ideal for major transformations or going significantly lighter.
Partial Highlight: Focuses on the top and sides of the head, leaving the bottom more natural. Perfect for subtle dimension or a lower-maintenance blonde.
2. Hair Growth & Maintenance
Full Highlight: Typically requires more upkeep since regrowth is visible all over. Recommended every 6-8 weeksfor maintenance.
Partial Highlight: Lower maintenance, as the natural hair underneath helps blend the regrowth. Can be refreshed every 8-12 weeks.
3. Budget & Time Commitment
Full Highlight: More time-consuming (usually 2.5-4 hours) and costs more due to the number of foils and product used.
Partial Highlight: Quicker service (about 1.5-3 hours) and more budget-friendly while still adding brightness.
4. Natural Hair Color & Base Tone
If the natural color is darker and you want significant brightness, a full highlight is recommended.
If the hair is already light or sun-kissed, a partial highlight can refresh and maintain the look.
5. Personal Style & Hair Goals
Want a soft, lived-in blonde? A partial highlight with a root melt could be the best choice.
Looking for a high-impact, bright blonde? A full highlight or even a balayage blend might be better.
6. Special Occasions vs. Everyday Wear
If prepping for an event, vacation, or wedding, a full highlight might be the best option for maximum brightness.
For a subtle refresh in between big transformations, a partial highlight keeps everything looking fresh without over-processing the hair.
A consultation with a stylist can help determine the best option based on your hair goals, current color, and maintenance preference! Would you be leaning more toward a brighter, full transformation or a softer, lower-maintenance look?
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What is Balayage?
A hand-painted highlighting technique that creates a natural, sun-kissed look.
The word "balayage" comes from the French term meaning "to sweep" or "paint."
Unlike traditional foils, balayage gives a soft, blended gradient effect with no harsh lines.
How is Balayage Different from Traditional Highlights?
Foil Highlights: Use foils to create more defined, uniform brightness from roots to ends.
Balayage: Focuses on a gradual, lived-in brightness, usually starting mid-length and getting lighter toward the ends.
Rooty, Low-Maintenance Look: Because the roots aren’t heavily highlighted, balayage grows out more seamlessly than traditional highlights.
Who is Balayage Best For?
Works on all hair colors, from blonde to brunette to red.
Ideal for low-maintenance clients who don’t want to be in the salon every 6-8 weeks.
Great for soft dimension or a sun-kissed, beachy effect rather than an all-over blonde.
How Long Does Balayage Last?
Typically lasts 3-6 months, depending on hair growth and maintenance.
A toner or gloss every 6-8 weeks helps keep the color fresh.
Less noticeable regrowth compared to traditional highlights.
Customization Options
Lived-in Brunette: Balayage isn’t just for blondes! Warm caramel, honey, or espresso tones can add dimension.
Face-Framing Brightness: “Money piece” balayage for a brighter look around the face.
Root Shadow or Melt: Blends the natural root with balayage for a seamless transition.
Is Balayage Damaging?
Since it doesn’t require full saturation in foils, balayage is generally less damaging than traditional highlights.
Using bond-building treatments and professional aftercare ensures hair stays healthy.
Would you be looking for a soft, blended blonde or a dimensional brunette?
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1. Consider Your Hair Goals
Ask yourself:
Do I want a subtle refresh or a big transformation?
Do I want to maintain my natural color with some brightness, or go significantly lighter/darker?
Do I prefer low-maintenance color or am I okay with regular salon visits?
2. Know the Difference Between Services
Full Highlight – Brightness all over, including underneath. Best for high-impact blonding.
Partial Highlight – Focused on the top and sides for a lower-maintenance refresh.
Balayage – Hand-painted, blended highlights for a soft, natural grow-out.
Foilayage – A mix of foils and balayage for more lift and brightness while keeping a lived-in look.
Base Color/Root Touch-Up – Covers grays or darkens the natural root for a seamless blend.
Gloss/Toner – Refreshes tone and shine in between color appointments.
Extension Installation/Maintenance – For adding length, volume, or moving up existing extensions.
3. Think About Maintenance & Budget
Higher-maintenance options (full highlights, platinum blonding) may require visits every 6-8 weeks.
Lower-maintenance options (balayage, root melts) can be refreshed every 3-6 months with a gloss in between.
Consider your budget, as some services are more time-intensive and costly.
4. If You’re Unsure, Book a Consultation
If you're not sure what service to book, a consultation allows the stylist to assess your hair and recommend the best option.
Bring inspiration photos to help communicate the look you’re going for.
Would you be looking for a big transformation or just a refresh?