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have long been associated with transformations and cascading lengths. But a subtle shift is happening in salons and styling chairs across the UK: women are increasingly opting for , not necessarily to add length.

This growing trend is being driven in part by a demographic often overlooked in beauty marketing, . As women approach midlife, hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause can trigger noticeable hair changes.

Thinning at the crown, loss of density, and changes in texture are all common side effects that can impact confidence and self-image. Rather than reaching for wigs or resorting to harsher chemical treatments, more women now turn to discreet, volumising hair extensions as a gentle and immediate solution.

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Victoria Lynch, Founder and CEO of renowned hair extension brand, , explains: “Hair extensions have traditionally been associated with adding dramatic length, but we’re seeing a significant shift, particularly among menopausal women, towards using them for volume instead. As women experience hormonal changes, thinning hair becomes a common concern, especially around the hairline and crown. Extensions are now being embraced as a discreet, confidence-boosting solution to restore fullness rather than length.”

Unlike the traditional perception of extensions used for dramatic makeovers, today's clients seek subtle enhancements that blend seamlessly with their natural hair. The emphasis is on creating fullness, supporting fragile strands, and restoring the overall silhouette of a healthy, voluminous head of hair.

According to Remi Cachet, 53.35% of their sales in the UK are now for extension lengths between 14 and 18 inches, reflecting a clear shift toward natural-looking volume and subtle enhancement rather than dramatic length. Ultimately, showing the growing trend in which volume has become the main goal, particularly among women experiencing hormonal hair thinning or age-related density loss who seek discreet, confidence-boosting solutions rather than transformation.

Victoria highlights: “We’re seeing a huge rise in demand for hair extensions across all age groups, but particularly among women experiencing age-related hair thinning. The global market is set to double in size by 2032, and the UK is one of the fastest-growing regions in Europe. With an ageing population, the number of people aged 75 and over in the UK is expected to nearly double by 2040; it’s no surprise more women are turning to extensions for volume and confidence, not just length.”

Modern methods, such as nano wefts, Pro Tips, single-sided tape-ins, or even ultra-fine micro tape extensions, are explicitly designed to work with finer hair types. These techniques offer a less invasive and more comfortable experience, ideal for finer or more delicate hair often found in women over 40.

Victoria explains: “When it comes to hormonal hair thinning, especially around menopause, it’s crucial to approach hair extensions with care. Safe solutions absolutely exist, but the key is starting with a professional consultation. If there’s no active hair loss and the thinning is part of a gradual hormonal or age-related change, we can tailor extensions to suit individual needs without causing additional stress to the hair or scalp.”

As the beauty industry becomes increasingly inclusive and attuned to different life stages, hair extensions are being reframed, not as a vanity product, but as a form of self-care. For many women, restoring volume is less about appearance and more about preserving a sense of identity and self-assurance during a period of major physical change.

The narrative around hair extensions is evolving, and so is the typical client. No longer limited to youth-focused trends, extensions are becoming a trusted, empowering option for women navigating the complexities of hormonal ageing.