Antonio Estrada brings a transformation-driven approach to extension work, grounded in technical precision and hands-on mentorship. Based in Phoenix, he’s recognized for translating high-level techniques into systems that work behind the chair, empowering stylists to elevate both their craft and their confidence.
Why Antonio Loves Donna Bella Extensions
“I love Donna Bella because it’s a brand that truly understands stylists. After 13 years working with extensions, consistency and performance matter more to me than anything, and Donna Bella delivers both. The quality is reliable, the hair blends beautifully, and it performs the way I need it to behind the chair, not just in photos.
What really sets Donna Bella apart is the range of systems and the intention behind them. Whether I’m customizing for fine hair, creating fullness, or building a full transformation, I know I have options that actually work in real life. Their 20+ year heritage shows in the details, and that trust is why Donna Bella is my go-to extension brand.”
- Antonio Estrada (@antestradahair)
Antonio’s DB Faves
Hybrid Wefts
“Hybrid Wefts are my go-to when I want complete control over the install. They allow me to customize density and placement so the hair blends seamlessly and feels intentional for every client.”
PRO TIP: Install the wefts on both sides of the beaded foundation for a truly seamless finish. This technique is especially great for clients who wear their hair up often, because the install looks clean and visually pleasing from every angle.
Tape-Ins
“These are my roots. I started my career here.” - Clayton
PRO TIP:Cut the tip of the keratin into halves or thirds so you can install them super close to the hairline without anybody clocking them!
Kera-Links
“Kera-Links give me the most flexibility when it comes to detailed, customized work. They move naturally and allow for precise placement, especially in areas that need extra attention.”
PRO TIP: Cut Kera-Links for a more customized install. One Kera-Link can be divided into thirds, giving you better control and more precision when placing it in finer or detailed sections.”
Get to Know Antonio
Tell Us About Your Journey
I grew up with an obsession for hair. It was always the thing that made sense to me. But for a long time, I didn’t feel free to fully be myself. I kept parts of who I was hidden, including being gay, and that held me back more than I realized. Once I came out to the people closest to me, everything shifted. I finally gave myself permission to take the plunge, and that’s when my life and career started falling into place. I truly believe I was born to do hair, but it wasn’t until I embraced who I am that I could fully step into that purpose. From there, it was all about work ethic, curiosity, and courage. I followed the things that scared me, said yes to opportunities before I felt ‘ready,’ and put everything I had into mastering my craft. I’ve learned that when you combine passion with consistency and belief, things start to align. I’m still manifesting what’s next, but every step so far has been built on authenticity, hard work, and loving what I do.
What does being a part of the Donna Bella Pro Extensionist Team mean to you personally?
Being a on the Donna Bella Pro Extensionist Team means I finally get to share everything I’ve learned: the good, the bad, and the lessons that only come from experience. After 13 years behind the chair, I’ve seen it all: faulty installs, slipped tapes, and moments where things didn’t go as planned. Those experiences are exactly what shaped me into the stylist I am today. To me, this role is bigger than a title. It’s about education, confidence, and elevating our industry. My biggest goal as a hairstylist is to help other stylists feel more confident in their craft, be taken seriously, and make real money doing what they love. Being part of the Donna Bella Pro Extensionist Team gives me the platform to do that: to teach honestly, lead with experience, and help raise the standard for extensions.
What advice would you give to a newer extensionist just getting started?
I tell myself this all the time: I wish I had just started sooner. I was scared for no real reason and in an environment that didn’t fully support my desire to do extensions. Looking back, I realize how much time I spent overthinking instead of just going for it. My advice is simple: take an intro class and then go all in. Do models, then do more models. Watch videos, assist your favorite extension artists, and immerse yourself in it as much as possible. And honestly? Get extensions yourself. Feeling the hair, living with it, and understanding the maintenance firsthand makes a huge difference. Most importantly, don’t let anyone talk you out of it. People will say extensions ruin hair or that extension clients are high-maintenance. Both can be true, and both can also be completely false. When extensions are done correctly and with intention, they can be transformative for both the client and the stylist.
How do Donna Bella extensions elevate your client experience or your business?
Donna Bella extensions elevate both my client experience and my business because they’re reliable and built for professionals. I know I have access to every method I could need, along with the tools and support that make installs smoother and more consistent. That confidence translates directly to my clients, they feel taken care of from consultation to final result. From a business standpoint, extensions are a game-changer. As hairstylists, we’re in the service industry, but we also have to make decisions that support our growth and longevity. Donna Bella allows me to do both. And now, as part of the Pro Extensionist Team, I’m able to extend that support beyond my chair, helping other stylists build confidence in their work while building a profitable, sustainable business.
What would you say to a stylist considering Donna Bella for the first time?
I’d say try it for yourself. There’s no better way to understand a brand than working with it firsthand behind the chair. Once you do, you’ll see why it’s become a staple in my extension work. Of course, watch videos, do your research, we all do. And if you still have questions, reach out. I’m always happy to share my experience and help however I can.