Be on your guard!!

I have had a number of people call me about hair extensions that they have had fitted by someone else, who doesn't really have a clue as to what they are doing!! So before you commit yourself, here is some helpful information, and things to ask before booking your consultation appointment with your extension technician.

Q: Are you fully qualified?
A: If the answer is yes, but you would like to see a certificate, this shouldn't be a problem and they should be happy to show off their certificate.

Q: Do you have liability insurance?
A: Any professional carrying out any hairdressing service, be it cutting, colouring or extensions should have liability insurance, especially being a mobile hairdresser. Again if you would like to see proof then they should be happy to oblige!!

Q: How much experience do you have?
A: The technician should be honest about how long they have been applying extensions. Even if it had only been for a short time, they should have completed a certain amount of applications before they can classify themself as a technician. Also they should be able to show you a portfolio of the extensions they have already applied.

Q: Do I get a receipt?
A: When handing over your deposit a receipt should be offered. If you request a receipt for the final payment when the application is complete, this shouldn't be a problem either.

Q: Can I see a sample of hair before I book?
A: The technician should have a sample of the hair they will be using, and even have various hair weights to show you the comparison between them.
Some technicians, like me, will not have a full supply of the hair to be fitted but will need to order the hair for the fitting after a colour match and consultation has been completed. The hair will be checked once delivered and if there is any problem with the hair it will be sent back to the supplier.

Q: Do I have to pay a deposit?
A: A deposit of between £50-£100 is required and will be deducted off the final payment after fitting. This secures your appointment and enables the purchase of the hair. This is normal as the hair is expensive to buy and the hair cannot always be returned if over a certain amount of time. If the client changes their mind, this leaves the technician out if pocket. If you cancel your appointment later on and not reschedule, most technicians will keep the deposit. There should be a clear cancellation policy for you to see on their website.

Other helpful advice.

- It is wise to go to someone that has a website so you have all the information you need even before you book a consultation.

- Be cautious if the hair and fitting is priced very low. But equally very expensive!! Do your research!! You should take into account that the whole price should be for the hair and the fitting. So if someone is offering a full head of Russian remy at £150 then the chances are unless they have stated that they are offering free fitting, I would expect the hair isn't quite what they say it is!! If it sounds too good to be true, it normally is!!

- Make sure that all questions have been answered and that the technician has run though all the contra-indications and influencing factors to make sure you are suitable for extensions. This will be done by filling out a questionnaire and this will be signed by both the client and the technician.

- An aftercare leaflet should be issued to the client so they know how to maintain and care for their new extensions. For those who have never had extensions and don't know how to do this, this is a vital piece of information as it will help them insure the longevity of the hair.

I hope this helps you
J x