Everyone Does Extensions Now! How to Choose a Stylist

Has anyone noticed that everyone seems to be doing hair extensions these days? Or even more strange, they're all of a sudden extension SPECIALISTS? It's not a coincidence. Hair extensions are H-O-T right now. Everybody wants them, and lots of hairstylists just see cha-ching when they think about offering them as a service... So how do you know who to pick for such a big commitment service when you could go to almost any salon these days and get a set? Here are some things to think about:

• Check out their website and socials. Someone who has been doing extensions for a long time (and someone especially who claims to be a master/ specialist etc.) will have TONs of photos. This is why all you see on my Instagram is hair extensions. It's pretty much most of what I do. I do them every day and therefore have new photos all the time. If someone says they do extensions but all you are seeing is color and cuts, they probably don't do that many.

• Ask the risks. If someone tells you there are zero risks, they are either uneducated or are thinking too highly of themself. There are challenges with every extension method. Some of these may be on the artist and some may be on the client- ask how to navigate the risks and what can be done if there are any issues. Issues range from tangling, not blending, hair being pulled...

• Ask what methods they are certified in. Now, I don't necessarily think this means you should knock brands you don't like, because every method has its place (except maybe tapes...) but your stylist should be certified. This is non-negotiable. You need to know that your stylist takes their education seriously, and that means taking the time and money (I have spent over $20,000 on my extension education in my career) to make sure they are providing a quality service.

We live in an age of abundant information- do your research and make sure you are investing in high value service that you can feel great about!