Salon extension services: total transformations

Most women are always trying to lose a few inches – except when it comes to their hair. From the era of medieval princesses to the present day, long, luscious locks have been considered a mark of beauty. With celebrities such as Blake Lively and Beyoncé admired for their tumbling tresses, it’s no surprise that many clients want to emulate the Rapunzel look. “In my experience, there is no set type of client for hair extensions – people of all ages want to transform their hair from short to long,” says Paul Falltrick, Great Lengths brand ambassador. “What is key with any lengthening service is to ensure the extensions look natural in whatever hair you’re working with. The desired length needs to be realistic in order for it to blend into the natural hair, while complementing the client’s age and face shape.” Dawn Reilly, marketing director from Balmain agrees: “With length, we would advise never to go for more than double the natural length, and always ensure the hair is blended in and bonded correctly for the most natural look,” she says. The key to a successful transformation is a good consultation. Certain clients, such as those with busy lifestyles who prefer styles that can be left to dry naturally, will not have the time to maintain extensions properly. Likewise, for clients who have previously experienced hair loss, a full head of extensions might not be the best option. If clients want the extra length, but are wary of committing to a full head of extensions straight away, Paul advises they start small. “I encourage them to try a partial application first,” he says. “This could perhaps be to add density or colour to the hair. Once a client has tried extensions, they are generally hooked on the way they transform the hair.” Dawn recommends using a style file full of before and after images to help clients during the consultation process. “Stylists in the salon wearing the extensions can also be very effective,” she adds. Proper aftercare is, of course, essential for maintaining extensions for up to four months. According to Dawn, that means always tying tresses up loosely while sleeping and using a bristle brush to ensure it doesn’t tangle and matte at the bonds. “Also, always use the manufacturers recommended aftercare to maximise the quality and life of hair,” says Dawn. “You wouldn’t use dishwasher tablets in a washing machine, so don’t use products that aren’t designed for extensions to maintain them.” Sonia Jittla, hair extensions specialist at Richard Ward Hair and Metrospa, adds that they are perfect for those who like to vary their look according to the latest fashion. “Hair trends are constantly changing, so extensions are a fantastic option for clients who want to keep their look up-to-date,” she says. “One day a client might want a geometric bob and then a few weeks later she wants to try a ‘lob’ or even a fringe. Extensions are perfect in this case because they enable you to create a completely new style in an instant.”