Consulting with Clients

Once you learn the skills and techniques for applying hair extensions, it’s very important that you consult with your clients when they request a style that requires extensions. Explain the various ways that the extensions can be applied to the hair and show your clients examples of the application methods so they can make the best choice for their hair type and desired style. Be clear about the removal methods for the extensions and how the client’s extensions and natural hair should be cared for to keep the client’s hair healthy and keep the extensions looking their best for as long as possible.

The consultation is the most important part of the extension process. When your client arrives to discuss their hair extensions possibilities, your first priority is to get a solid idea of what they’re looking for. A consultation doesn’t have to be very long, but it should be informative for both parties. It is important to explain the extension on process and what is required on their end to maintain the extensions. After the consultation, the client should feel both comfortable and excited about hair extensions.

During the consultation, you must find out why the client wants hair extensions and what their expectations are. You must also find out about their commitment to maintaining the extensions and establish whether there are any contraindications to the service. Let them know they should arrive with clean hair in its “natural” state. This helps better see their hair colour, density, and what texture they have. However, if they ALWAYS straighten their hair or alter its natural state – have them arrive with their hair like that so that you know how they will most likely be wearing their hair. Remember to ask questions that will ensure you get as much information as you can from your client to enable you to help them achieve their desired look.

• Would they like any movement in the hair?
• When (or if) they last had a chemical service on their hair?
• What chemicals do they currently have on their hair, if any?

Once you have considered all the influencing factors and analyzed the hair, record all your findings on the client’s record card. Make clear recommendations based on these factors and use them to decide which extension service is right for your client.

Length: Shorter hair may need more hair bundles to add length. Medium and longer natural hair  will not need as many additions to look blended and natural, 

Texture: You will want to purchase hair that resembles the texture of the natural hair, 

Porosity: Low porosity has an increased risk or hair slippage. Medium and extreme porosity both are acceptable for extensions.

 Density: Lighter density hair can tolerate larger partings, lessening the amount of hair needed for extensions. Heavy hair density requires smaller partings, increasing the amount of hair needed for extensions. 

Scalp: Dry and normal scalps are both good candidates for extensions. Oily scalps may cause extension slippage. This can be helped by the use of dry shampoos.