The Sphere Journal
Before you book
Straight answers on prices, aftercare and finding the right professional — an occasional read from Sphere.
Featured · Prices
How much are knotless braids in London?
What affects the price of knotless braids in London — size, length, hair included and deposits — and how to compare real prices from local braiders.
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- AftercareHow to make lash extensions last longerSimple aftercare tips to keep lash extensions full for longer — what to avoid in the first 24 hours, cleaning, sleeping and when to book infills.3 min
- Finding a proBest braiders in South London: how to find yoursHow to find a great braider in South London — Croydon, Brixton, Peckham, Lewisham and more. What to check in portfolios, reviews and prices before booking.3 min
- PricesHow much is a silk press in the UK?What goes into the price of a silk press, how long it lasts, and how to keep natural hair healthy with heat styling.2 min
- AftercareHow to make gel nails last longerEveryday tips to stop gel and BIAB nails chipping or lifting, and when to book your next appointment.2 min
- Finding a proWhat to ask before booking a beauty appointmentA quick checklist of questions to ask any beauty or hair professional before you pay a deposit.2 min
- Finding a proThe Top Foundations for Medium to Deep Skin Tones in the UKTested on rich undertones, wear time, and oxidation: why Danessa Myricks, Fenty, and Haus Labs lead the pack for medium to deep skin, with UK stockists and prices.6 min
- AftercareThe UK Guide to Lace Glues: Got2b, Ghost Bond, Ebin & Saving Your EdgesThe difference between temporary gels, melting sprays, and multi-week adhesives: how Got2b, Ghost Bond, and Bold Hold compare, plus safe removal to protect your hairline.5 min
- Finding a proHigh-Street Wigs vs. Online Human Hair: The Best Units Under £250 in the UKFrom under-£70 synthetics and half-wigs to human hair units under £250: compare UK buying options, lace, hidden costs and professional customisation before you buy.6 min
- Finding a proThe Complete UK Guide to X-Pression Braiding Hair: Pre-Stretched vs Ultra Braid, Pack Counts & Where to BuyWhy UK braiders ask for Kanekalon X-Pression hair, how Pre-Stretched compares with Original 82" Ultra Braid, how many packs to buy for knotless, box braids, French curls and cornrows, colour codes and where to buy.6 min
- AftercareHow to Stop Boho Braids from Matting: The UK Guide to Human Bulk Hair vs Synthetic CurlsWhy synthetic curly leave-outs tangle within days, why UK stylists recommend human bulk hair for boho braids, how much to buy, a daily routine and an honest comparison.5 min
- Finding a proThe Braider's Kit Essentials: Shine 'n Jam, Metal Tail Combs & Setting FoamsWhy UK braiders skip high-street gels for braiding jams, how metal tail combs give clean grid parts, which setting foams braiders mention, and what to know if you're asked to bring products.5 min
