tips when choosing a hair extension tech
When all you want is long, beautiful hair the last thing you want to do is research a bunch of different stylists…but this is a crucial step in the process and trust me, your hair will thank you!
So how do you find the right hair extension tech for you? Read our tips below and you’ll be well on your way to your long locks!
Consultations.
The best way to feel out a stylists’ abilities is to meet for a consultation. If a stylist doesn’t offer consultations before booking your appointment then this is red flag #1! Consults are crucial as hair extensions are so individualized to each person. During a consult you will generally be able to feel someone out and see how knowledgeable they are with their craft. Bonus, most tech’s offer complimentary consultations!
Price.
Good hair extensions ain’t cheap and cheap hair extensions ain’t good! If someone is offering their services for a price which is much lower than local competition, in most cases they are using very cheap hair (which will not last and can damage your natural hair) or they may not be licensed and are looking to make a quick buck. If their prices are much higher than the competition than this is also something to be wary of (unless they provide additional services with the install such as colour etc). Either way, investigate further and if something feels off than be on your way!
Portfolio of previous work.
When researching hair extension techs ask for before and afters of their work and “under the hood” photos (photos that will show their installation process) specifically of the method you are looking to get. If someone is reluctant to show these photos or says they don’t have any, than this would also be a big red flag!
Type of hair being used.
Ask the stylist what type of hair they use- someone who is knowledgeable in their craft and uses high quality hair should be able to tell you the ethnicity of the hair they use, whether its single or double drawn and if it is remy or non-remy hair. The highest quality hair and the only hair that any extension tech should be using is “100% human, remy hair”. This means that the hair is collected from a single donor and that all the hair cuticles are intact and aligned, meaning the hair will not tangle and the strands of hair are made into extensions in the same way that they are removed from the donors head. Non-remy hair and synthetic hair will not last more than 1-2 months and will tangle and matt horribly, damaging your natural hair.
Client Reviews.
An experienced and sought after technician will have many reviews from their clients and should be more than happy to share these with you! Often times stylists will tag their clients in their transformation photos- which is another good way to see authentic reviews! See if the client commented how much they love their hair or you could even go so far as to reach out to their clients to see how their experience has been with the stylist.
Certificates.
A licensed hair extension tech will be able to send you a copy of their certification, or at the very least tell you where they were certified and how long they have been in their trade. Keep in mind that just having a certification doesn’t guarantee they do their job well, just as someone who has been doing extensions for 1 year could do better work than someone who has been practicing for 10+ years. Use your judgment!
Vibe check!
Do they pass the vibe check? Yes, this is a real question and is arguably just as important as their work! Are they friendly? Do they answer all your questions happily or do they seem bothered by them? Did you get a good feeling from them during the consultation? Did they seem confident, knowledgeable and genuinely nice? These things may not seem like a big deal but you will be spending 2+ hours with this person every appointment-trust me you want a stylist that you are not only comfortable with but enjoy their company as well! You are also spending a pretty penny so its only natural to want to give your business to someone who you trust will do good by you and take care of your precious hair. Developing a trusting and friendship-like bond with your stylist is so important! Here at Vanity Girl, our clients are our friends! I have met some of the most amazing ladies through my work and have developed great friendships as a result!
I can’t tell you how many clients have come to me with damaged hair after having a bad experience elsewhere. It is so important to do your research and educate yourself so you can make an informed decision and be confident in whom you are trusting your beloved locks with!
If you are ready to start your own hair transformation and are interested in our services, please do not hesitate to ask all your questions and get to know us! We would be more than happy to be your hair bestie!
Talk soon xo
Vanity Girl
