What Counts as Short, Medium or Long Hair? The Salon Length Guide

Illustrated salon hair length guide showing short, medium, long and extra long hair measured at the chin, shoulder and mid upper-arm

Why length matters

Most of our services — cuts, colour, balayage, foils, grey blending, blow waves — are priced by hair length, because longer hair simply takes more time and more product. Booking the right tier means your price is exactly what you expect, and your stylist has the right amount of time set aside for you.

How we measure

Stand relaxed with your hair down and dry, and see where the ends fall:

The rule: your tier is set by where the ends fall. If they sit below a line, it's the next length up. Between two options? Book the closest one and we'll confirm on the day.

Nanoplasty measures differently

Smoothing treatments coat every strand from root to tip, so our nanoplasty tiers use their own scale — measured dry with your hair down: Short is above the shoulders (chin to collarbone), Medium is shoulders to bra strap, Long is below the bra strap down to about the waist, and Extra Long or Thick is past the waist — or very dense hair at any length. If your ponytail measures over 10cm around, book that tier whatever your length.

What about thick hair?

Very thick or dense hair can take more time and product. Depending on the service, it may move you up a tier — many packages have an 'Extra Long or Thick' option — or carry a small product fee. Either way, your stylist confirms your full price with you before we begin. No surprises at the counter.

See all services & pricing →

Quick answers

What counts as long hair at a salon?

Long is when your ends fall between the shoulder and the middle of your upper arm, measured dry with hair down. Below that is Extra Long.

What if my hair sits between two lengths?

Book the closest option — your tier is set by where the ends fall, and if they sit below a line it's the next length up. We'll confirm and adjust on the day before starting.

Does thick hair cost more?

Sometimes — it may move you up a tier or carry a small product fee, depending on the service. We always confirm the full price before we begin.

More guides

How Long Does Balayage Last?Grey Blending vs Full CoverageAll guides

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Hair Avenue Braddon · Lonsdale St, Braddon · Walk-ins welcome

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