Step One is Choosing the Right Hair Extensions Stylist

Hair extensions can add length and thickness to your hair. Follow these tips to find the right hair extensions expert for you.

Hair extensions can add volume and length to your hair, even if you are suffering from hair loss. Not all hairstylists are created equal, however -- some are much better than others. These suggestions can help you find a professional stylist with the qualifications and expertise necessary to provide you with high-quality, long-lasting, beautiful results.

Ask friends and relatives with hair extensions

The best resource is to ask someone you know with hair extensions. If you have friends, family members or acquaintances who wear extensions (and are satisfied with them), ask who does their hair and learn more about their experience. Find out what types of bonds are used, the approximate costs of the extensions and other details that are important to you.

Call reputable salons in your area

Sometimes cold calling is necessary to find a hair extensions expert. Make a list of the top salons in your area. Call and ask for their most experienced stylist working with hair extensions. Tell the person about the condition of your hair and any issues that you have with hair loss.

Set up a consultation with two or three experts and meet them all before actually booking an appointment for your hair extensions.

"And though you usually get what you pay for, the most expensive salon is not necessarily the best," says hair extensions stylist Jillian Montgomery of Los Angeles. "The key is finding a stylist who is experienced with hair loss and also knowledgeable about a variety of different types of extensions."

Ask the right questions of your hair extensions expert

At your consultations, arm yourself with a list of questions to help you make the right decision about your hair extensions.

•What type of hair do they use?

•What type of bond or attachment method do they use?

•What type of training have they had?

•How much experience do they have with hair extensions?

•Are they certified in hair extensions?

•Is hair loss their specialty?

•Can they provide client references?

•How long will it take to attach the extensions?

•How much will the service cost in its entirety?

•How long will the extensions last?

"At your preliminary visit, be sure to ask the stylist to show you pictures of their past work," says Giovanni Mele, owner of Giovanni & Pileggi salon in Philadelphia. Also, if they aren't able to provide client references, take your business elsewhere.

Look online for reviews of hair extensions experts

Online you'll find a number of websites where you can read customer reviews of hair salons and hairstylists specializing in hair extensions. Check out general websites such as Yelp.com and Citysearch.com for local reviews, as well as sites that specialize in hair salon ratings, such as Salonratingz.com. These websites feature profiles of various salons and stylists, along with honest opinions from clients who have used the services in the past. On the Internet, you'll also find websites such as Hairextensionsnetwork.com, where you can search for hair extensions experts in your area.

The application of hair extensions is not a quick process. It's very important that you are comfortable with your stylist. During your initial consultation, make sure you have a connection and develop a rapport with this person. You will need to sit in his or her salon for several hours and possibly come back for future visits. You must be confident in the stylist's capabilities, as well as comfortable enough to ask questions, express your needs and voice your concerns. The decision to get hair extensions can be a wonderful one if you select the right expert for you.