Hair and Skin Testing
The following tests should be carried out prior to hair extension services and according to the manufacturer’s instructions and recognized industry procedures. If contraindications cause doubts as to the suitability of the service for the client you must take a suitable course of action:
- Elasticity test – If the elasticity is poor, the extension service cannot be carried out. The hair will stretch under pressure and break, which may result in the client taking legal action against you
- Porosity test – A rough raised cuticle will cause structural damage when attaching long-term extensions and the cuticle scales will not repair with short-term extensions. Damaged hair may result in the client taking legal action against you.
- Pull test – Select a small amount of hair and pull gently to check for hair loss. Why – if more than a dozen hairs are displaced, this could be an early sign of traction alopecia. If traction alopecia is present you must not continue with the service. Hair loss may result in the client taking legal action against you.
