HJ’s Extensions Competition of the Year, sponsored by Remi Cachet, returned to Salon International 2026, putting the skills and creativity of some of the industry’s talented extension specialists in the spotlight.
HJ’s Extensions Competition challenges hair professionals to showcase their technical expertise and creative flair, demonstrating flawless and innovative hair extension application in a live competition environment.
Taking place on the show floor at Salon International 2026, the live final saw seven talented finalists go head-to-head, putting their extension skills to the test in front of a panel of expert judges before the winner was revealed live at the show on the HJ Stage.
A huge congratulations to this year’s finalists:
- Nicole Butterworth
- Melanie McDonald
- Jamieleigh Talbot
- Deborah Robinson
- Georgia Jackson
- Maisie Dean
- Stacey Doolan
Winner of HJ’s Extensions Competition of the Year 2026, Sponsored by Remi Cachet
And without further ado, a huge congratulations goes to Melanie McDonald, who was crowned the winner of HJ’s Extensions Competition of the Year 2026, sponsored by Remi Cachet.
The competition celebrated the skill, precision and creativity involved in professional hair extensions, giving the finalists the opportunity to demonstrate their expertise live in front of the Salon International audience.
A huge thank you to this year’s expert judging panel:
- Marlene Lamont
- Michelle Griffin
- Inanch Emir
- Poppy Saunders
- Zoe Irwin
- Victoria Lynch
Congratulations to all of the finalists who took part in HJ’s Extensions Competition of the Year 2026!
Chlo Weldon
Chlo writes regular content for the print magazine and website, as well as scheduling the content for HJ’s social media channels. Chlo has a master’s degree in Magazine Journalism and previously worked as Assistant Editor at craft magazine Tattered Lace. After moving to London from her small hometown to be part of the HJ team, she is loving every minute of being involved in the industry. She loves a good treatment and is on a mission for a longer and thicker mane.
