Hair Extension Color Matching Guide | How to Choose the Right Shade

How to take daylight hair photos for color matching”  “Indoor light vs daylight hair color difference”  “WhatsApp hair color matching process for extensions

Hair Extension Color Matching Guide

How to choose the right shade for any extension type and any hair color

Choosing the right color is the most important step for natural-looking results—whether you’re ordering tape-in, weft, keratin, micro ring, clip-in, ponytail, fringe, or toppers.

This guide explains:

  • why hair color changes in photos

  • how to take correct pictures for matching

  • how undertones affect results

  • what to expect if your hair is dyed or multi-tonal

  • the most reliable remote matching method (video comparison)


Why hair color looks different on screens

Hair color is affected by variables that most people don’t notice:

1) Lighting temperature

  • Warm indoor lights make hair look more golden/red

  • Cool daylight makes hair look more ash/smoky

2) Phone camera processing

Most phones automatically adjust exposure and white balance, changing the perceived tone.

3) Filters and HDR

Filters can make hair look brighter, cooler, warmer, or more saturated than real life.

4) Hair history

Previously dyed hair can have hidden undertones (red/orange/yellow) that appear under sunlight.


Understanding tone vs. undertone (quick explanation)

When matching extensions, you’re matching both:

  • Depth level (how dark/light it is)

  • Undertone (ash/cool, neutral, warm/golden, red/copper, etc.)

Two colors can look “similar” indoors but completely different in daylight if undertones don’t match.


The most reliable remote method: Daylight photos + real hair video comparison

Many customers ask for physical mini sample strands. We understand the idea. But due to preparation and international shipping, the total cost can be high (often €70–€80 to Europe).

So we offer a more effective option:

Step 1 — Take photos the correct way (very important)

Rules:

  • Natural daylight (near a window or outside, not direct sunlight)

  • No filters, no flash

  • Avoid warm indoor lights and ring lights

Send these angles:

  1. Front (roots/hairline visible)

  2. Side view (shows reflection)

  3. Back view (overall color)

  4. Close-up (roots + mid-lengths + ends)

  5. Optional: 10–15 second daylight video

Step 2 — Send photos via WhatsApp

WhatsApp: +90 530 916 03 75

Step 3 — We send real hair videos of the closest matches

We select several closest options from our range and film them in natural light so you can see:

  • true undertone

  • depth level

  • how it looks in motion

Then you choose the best match before production/shipping.


Special cases (and how we handle them)

If your hair has balayage / highlights / ombré

We usually match to:

  • the mid-lengths and ends (for blended looks), or

  • create a custom blend recommendation (when possible)

If your roots are darker than your ends

Tell us which area you want to match:

  • match to roots (more seamless at the top)

  • match to ends (more seamless length blend)

If your hair is dyed

Dyed hair can fade warmer or cooler over time. We recommend matching the current shade in daylight and considering maintenance toners if needed.


FAQ (More detailed)

Do you offer free physical sample strands?

We usually do not offer free mini strands because even very small shipments require handling, packaging, and international shipping. Instead, WhatsApp matching is more accurate and faster.

Is WhatsApp matching accurate?

It’s one of the most accurate remote methods when photos are taken correctly in daylight. We also support it with real hair videos for better shade confidence.

Why not just use a digital color chart online?

Digital charts vary by screen settings, brightness, and display calibration. Real hair videos show texture, shine, and undertone more reliably.

What if I’m between two shades?

We will show both options on video. Often the deciding factor is undertone, not only darkness/lightness.

Can you match very cool/ash or very warm shades?

Yes. Undertone control is a key part of our matching process. Send daylight photos and we’ll recommend the closest undertone match.

What if the color is still slightly off when it arrives?

Small differences can happen due to lighting/hair history. In many cases, a stylist can do a minor toner adjustment for perfect blending (especially on dyed hair). We aim to prevent this by using video shade comparisons before production.

What photos should I NOT send?

Avoid:

  • bathroom warm lights

  • ring light shots

  • photos with beauty filters

  • photos taken at night

  • heavily edited images

Can you match to a screenshot or an Instagram photo?

It’s possible, but not ideal. Instagram often applies compression and color shifts. Daylight, filter-free photos are best.

Does texture affect color matching?

Yes. Straight vs wavy hair can reflect light differently. That’s why real hair video is helpful.

Does the same shade look different in different extension methods?

The perceived shade can slightly change due to thickness/density and how light hits the hair (weft vs tape-in vs clip-in). Our video matching helps reduce surprises.


Ready to get your perfect match?

Send your daylight photos now and we’ll reply with the closest shades on real hair video:

WhatsApp: +90 530 916 03 75

 

How to take daylight hair photos for color matching
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