If you’ve been longing to give your gruaig some TLC, a complete hair transformation could be yours in perfect timing for summer. We’ve teamed up with Ireland’s leading expert hair extension brand, Platinum Expert Hair, to give one lucky IMAGE reader a luxury hair transformation valued at €750.

Trusted by over 800 salons nationwide, with four salons in Dublin, Cork and Galway, a dedicated training academy, and global distribution, Platinum Expert Hair has set the standard in the hair extension industry for high-quality, affordable luxury.

Founded in 2013, Platinum delivers a full range of hairdressing services including precision colour, tailored cuts and modern styling, but their extension services remain at the heart of the brand. With six specialised methods available and over 40 shades designed for seamless blending, each service is tailored to the individual, ensuring a natural, personalised result.

To give you a little more insight into the salon’s ethos, as well as bring you some top tips on extending the life of your extensions and everything you need to know if it’s your first time, we got the lowdown from Platinum Expert Hair owner, Onagh Chira.

What makes Platinum Expert Hair stand out from other leading brands?

At Platinum Expert Hair, we’ve built the business around four core pillars: our expert salons, professional distribution network, accredited training academy, and retail division. This gives us a unique 360-degree understanding of the hair extension industry from both a professional and client perspective.

With over 13 years of experience, we specialise in multiple extension methods, including keratin bonds, tapes, microbeads, nano beads, wefts and clip-ins, allowing us to fully tailor each transformation to the individual client. Hair integrity is always our priority, so having multiple methods means we can choose the most suitable option for both the client’s lifestyle and hair type.

We’re also known for our high-quality ethically sourced hair, available in 41 beautifully blended shades designed to suit everyone from bright blondes and cool ash tones to rich brunettes. Combined with our expert fitting techniques, education-led approach, and exceptional aftercare range, Platinum offers an expert-led experience that goes beyond simply adding length or volume.

What are your top tips for first-timers getting hair extensions?

The most important thing is choosing the right method for your hair rather than simply choosing the look you want. A professional consultation is essential because factors such as hair density, lifestyle, maintenance routine and overall hair health all play a role in determining the best option.

It’s also important to have realistic expectations around maintenance. Hair extensions are a high-quality service and require professional upkeep appointments along with proper home care to keep them looking their best.

I’d also always recommend investing in quality over quantity. High-quality hair extensions should blend seamlessly, feel comfortable, and most importantly, protect the integrity of your natural hair.

How can clients best extend the life of their extensions?

Aftercare is everything when it comes to maintaining hair extensions. Using salon-quality, extension-safe products makes a huge difference to both the longevity and appearance of the hair.

Our Platinum Remedy Mask is one of our hero products because it restores moisture back into the hair while keeping extensions sleek, soft and polished. Hydration is key, particularly for longer hair extensions, as extensions do not produce their own natural oils the way natural hair does. Because of this, it’s important to regularly replenish moisture using nourishing masks, oils and professional aftercare products to keep the hair looking healthy and refreshed.

As the hair is 100% human hair, it also reacts similarly to your own hair over time. Toning appointments and colour refreshing products can help maintain the beautiful blonde, ash and brunette shades clients love, particularly during the summer months when sun, heat and holidays can affect the tone of the hair.

Regular brushing, avoiding excessive heat, sleeping with hair tied loosely, and attending maintenance appointments on schedule are also essential for preserving both the extensions and the client’s natural hair health.

As we approach the busy summer holiday season, why are extensions such a great addition to your beauty routine?

Hair extensions are the ultimate confidence boost for summer because they instantly add effortless glamour while also making styling easier and quicker. Whether clients want added volume, extra length, or simply fuller-looking hair for holidays and events, extensions create that polished look with minimal effort.

They’re also incredibly versatile during the summer months. Clients can wear their hair sleek, beachy, waved, in ponytails or braids while still maintaining fullness and dimension.

Many people also find that extensions help their hair hold styles better in humid and holiday climates. With the right aftercare and professional fitting, they can remain looking beautiful throughout the entire summer season.