Pro tip: One thing you can do to increase client loyalty and profits is become properly educated in the art of hair extensions.
Just like how precision cuts and perfectly blended balayage are an art, so is installing extensions. Unfortunately, statistics show that over 75 percent of stylists offering the service did not get the proper training and education to apply extensions correctly. Improper extension installation could not only look unnatural and feel uncomfortable, it can also damage your client’s hair.
To ensure that you receive the most gainful and comprehensive extension education follow these five tips.
Know Your Educator
Do your research—you want to be trained by an expert. Ask what his or her professional background is, find out how many methods they teach and how long they have been working with extensions. Check out their social media, read reviews and look at pictures of their work.
Theory and Hands-On Classes
In cosmetology school, education is broken into both theory and practical. I believe your training in extensions should be too. You’ll need to know the “why," not just the “how,” behind extensions. The theory part in my extension course goes into detail on things including differences in methods; color matching; how to give a successful consultation; and how to market the service.
The hands-on portion of the class in my opinion, is best when conducted on a real client, not a mannequin. When working on a client, you get to see how the extensions grow out and you get to experience what it’s like to remove and re-use them.
Different Methods
Extensions are not a one-size-fits-all service. Many extension stylists are trained in only one method and therefore can only offer that, even if it isn’t the ideal extension choice for the client.
Class Size
Choose a course that limits registration to a handful of people. This ensures you will get personalized attention on those small details and be able to ask all of your questions. I also think it’s important to choose a course that provides follow-up support after certification.
Vendor
The product you use directly reflects your service, and your service directly reflects your reputation. It’s worth knowing if your hair supplier, or extension company will stand behind their product. Don’t let poor-quality hair speak for your reputation. It’s worth the investment to use high-quality hair, which is ethically sourced, and is in its natural state—not stripped of its cuticle and coated with silicones.
If you do your research and choose your extension education wisely, you’ll be poised to capitalize on the big opportunities in extensions and on your way to tripling your income in 2020.