Extension Consultation 101

Whether you are a new extension specialist or a seasoned extension stylist, we can all agree that the consultation is the most important part of having an extension client. Consultations are important not only to protect your client's hair but also to protect you as a stylist. In this post, we are going to discuss why consultations matter, what you should cover in them, and share some resources we have to assist you!

Why Consultations Matter

A consultation may feel like an unnecessary step, but it’s actually one of the most important parts of working with an extension client. It gives you and your client a chance to get on the same page about the service, which helps avoid any confusion or issues later on. The consultation allows you the opportunity to ensure your client is a good candidate for extensions, understand what they’re hoping to get out of them, go over their budget, and start building trust. Essentially, you’re setting the tone and expectations for the entire process, from the first appointment to the final look, and every appointment after.

What You Should Cover

Within a consultation, there are some topics that are necessary to cover in order for the client to receive the best results and information possible. Before anything else, it’s important to assess if your client is even a good candidate for extensions. To do that, you’ll need to ask key questions about their health and hair history. This information helps you make a professional, informed decision about whether their hair can safely handle extensions and ensures you’re protecting the integrity of their natural hair. For example, if a client is experiencing hair loss or has had a procedure recently that may cause hair loss, they are most likely not a good candidate because their hair may not be able to hold the weight of extensions. Also, if your client has had extensions before, it’s super important to ask about that experience. Did they take care of them properly? Was it a good experience or a total nightmare? Asking these kinds of questions gives you insight into what worked (or didn’t) and helps you modify your approach.

Next is a combination of their desired results and their lifestyle, which will lead you to deciding what type of extensions would be best for them. This allows you to have the best idea of what they want and gives you the opportunity to communicate what you can confidently deliver.

Lastly, talking about budget might feel a little uncomfortable, but it’s a key part of the consultation. Be upfront about the full cost—from the initial appointment (including the hair and install) to any maintenance or color appointments down the line. We always recommend quoting a bit extra to give yourself some wiggle room - if you end up being able to charge your client less, they'll be so happy to have saved a bit of money! Laying the budget out helps your client understand the full investment and know exactly what to expect. Being transparent from the start not only avoids surprises later but also builds trust between you and your client.

Resources To Help

There’s a lot to go over when it comes to consultations, and let’s be real—it’s easy to miss a few important details. To make your life easier, we’ve created a full page of resources you can lean on, from a Client Waiver to a Consultation Form. One thing we recommend? Sending your client the consultation form ahead of time. It’s a great way to gather important info before the appointment and gives you solid talking points for your in-person consult. When the install appointment rolls around, having the client waiver on hand is another great resource. It helps make sure your client knows exactly what to expect and covers those little extension details you might not think to mention in the moment - it will also cover you if they come back with concerns that you will know for a fact you had previously discussed. Lastly, after your install, send your client home with a Hair Extension Home Care Card! Go over major points with them about washing, products, and daily care in your appointment, but also give additional information on how to make their extensions last and protect their investment.