Extensions and hair additions are not a simple service!   by Christine Hanson

in Health / Hair Loss    (submitted 2011-07-21)

A simple search on the Internet will show you that adding hair is becoming just about as common as getting color or a cut. Yes, it is somewhat expensive, but everyone wants Kim Kardashian's hair and they will charge their future away to get it. So of course there are those who are willing to do your extensions for less money out of their home, car, whatever...
I have seen more than a few of these jobs lately, and it truly frightens me to know that when someone without the critical thinking skills, or the training and know how starts installing extensions, the end result can be PERMANENT hair loss. That means it is never going to grow back, you will no longer need a hair dresser because you will be wearing wigs for the rest of your life! (And believe me, wigs are not comfortable in 90 degree heat!)
Just look at the African American community, (who have been adding hair forever) many are now bald, or have bald spots on their head. This is because not everyone can do hair weaves, and those who do them poorly, end up causing more hair loss. The same will be true with white clients who choose to find someone cheap, and then neglect the care instructions that should accompany every hair addition. Hair additions must be monitored by a qualified professional, or they should not be installed.

Hair weaving, hair extensions, hair pieces are making it possible to create looks and resolve issues we had no solutions for in the past, however, they do come with risk, and careful installation is just the beginning. One must develop a relationship with their extension professional, and be able to trust that the installer has the integrity to speak up if issues are starting. Think about this, does your extension expert want to give up a lucrative client if necessary? Or will they just keep adding more hair until there is nothing left to add to?

Integrity is sadly lacking in the beauty business, witness the success of Brazilian thermal straightening and the numerous law suits now on file stating health issues, blistering skin, hair loss.
The beauty industry as a whole is unregulated. Consumers are protected from infectious disease through sterilazation laws, yet on the product end regulation is sadly lacking.We,as professionals, need to recognize that some of the treatments, and services we offer are not just ineffective, some are downright dangerous!

About the Author

Christine Hanson has been a beauty professional for over 30 years. Her specialty is hair replacement for medically related hair loss.