The popularity of hair extensions has long been hindered by the reputation of damage and difficult upkeep. Poorly applied Hair Extensions can have a devastating effect on the natural hair resulting in possible mechanical damage to the hair shaft, chemical damage to the hair shaft and even traction alopecia. With dozens of application techniques available on the market, it is imperative you know which technique is the most appropriate for your hair and what to do when things go wrong. Pictures of celebrities with bald patches and severe hair trauma are not uncommon. When you visit a hair salon you put your hair in the hands of a professional and expect to receive a quality service for an agreed amount.

So what are your rights when you suffer hair loss directly resulting from a hair extension service?

THE LAW

It is not against the law for an untrained person to provide hairdressing services, but, the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 does offer some protection. Among other things, this law says that hairdressers, like other service providers, must work with reasonable skill and care. The law also stipulates that any professional carrying out services to the public MUST have liability insurance. Hair Loss as a result of a hair extension service would be classed as ‘Injury’ and you are likely to be able to pursue this kind of claim on a ‘No Win No Fee’ basis. If you have not suffered actual hair loss but believe you have received a substandard service you can take the salon or hair extensions technician to small claims court. This would involve filling out an official form which briefly lays out the details of your claim.

DISCLAIMERS

A disclaimer is a defensive measure, essentially a denial of your right to claim costs from the salon should you experience any problems with your hair extensions. Because you have a right to have the service you paid for carried out with reasonable skill and care, this may render the disclaimer invalid, so even if you have signed a disclaimer you may still be able to claim against a salon. In any case you should avoid signing a disclaimer. Many salons request you sign this legal document as hair extensions are a potentially problematic service and any problems that are thrown up can be quite costly to rectify.

THE HAIR EXTENSION CONSULTATION

This is the first step in deciding whether you would like a hair extension service and allows the technician to check you are suitable for the service. The technician should check for ‘Contra- Indicators’ which can include;

Pregnancy

Infestations of the scalp

Medication that can cause hair loss

Broken skin or Irritation of the scalp

Unexplained hair loss including diffuse hair loss and alopecia

Remember to talk to your potential hair extension technician at length, your consultation should last a minimum of 30 minutes. Ensure the technician is experienced and/or qualified to carry out the service you require. Ask for details of past clients, if the technician has done good work in the past, his or her clients will be happy to speak to you. Ask if the extensions require professional maintenance and if so, enquire about the scheduled intervals and associated costs. Ask about the risks associated with the hair extensions so you can make an informed choice. Always get a written quote so there are no surprises after the hair extensions have been applied.

PROTECT YOURSELF WITH EVIDENCE

Whether you are required to sign paperwork or not it is imperative that you keep your own records. Take 4 pictures of your natural hair that clearly shows you from the back, front, right and left. Print these out and ask the hair technician to sign and date the pictures, an official stamp will be helpful if available. This will leave you with proof of your natural hair directly before the service. When your hair extensions are removed ensure you repeat the process.

IN COURT

Understandably, very few judges would have any real knowledge about the hair extension service and will be reluctant to make a judgement if your case is unclear. Ensure you protect yourself as afore mentioned with photographic evidence and paperwork to support your claim, otherwise you may find you have wasted time and money.

Whilst this information is designed to protect you against poorly applied hair extensions it is important that you take very good care of your new hair extensions style so you avoid inflicting damage to your natural hair yourself.

• Pay very close attention to the aftercare advice you are given and get these instructions in writing.

• Follow your advised professional maintenance schedule.

• Ensure your hair extensions are removed by a professional, preferably by the same technician that applied the extensions.

• Avoid undue pressure on your hair and scalp by brushing hair extensions carefully.

• Only use products and styling tools recommended by your hair extension technician.

Hair Extensions can be a fun way to change your look but always remember to take time and research the service before taking the plunge.