How to Be Hair Extensionist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 28, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Wearing hair extensions has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the variety of styles and colors it offers. The effect of this trend has been an increase in demand for hair extensionists. Hair extensionists are trained professionals who specialize in applying the extensions.

They use a variety of methods, such as fusion, tape-ins, and sew-ins, to attach the extensions, and must have a good eye for color and texture to ensure a natural-looking result. The demand for hair extensionists has also led to an increase in the variety of hair extension products and tools on the market, allowing individuals to achieve the look they want with ease.

Steps How to Become

Research the field of hair extensions to determine if this is the right career path for you. Learn about the different types of hair extensions, how they are installed, and what techniques are available.
Pursue a formal education in cosmetology. Most states require that hair extensionists have a cosmetology license, so you will need to complete a program at an accredited school.
Get certified in hair extensions. Once you have your cosmetology license, you can take specialized classes to become certified in hair extensions. Many cosmetology schools offer this type of certification program.
Build your portfolio. Before you start working as a hair extensionist, you should build a portfolio of your work. You can do this by learning from experienced hair extensionists and practicing on yourself or on friends and family members.
Look for job opportunities. Once you have your certification and portfolio in place, you can start looking for job opportunities. You can look for openings at salons or consider starting your own business.
Develop a marketing plan. Once you have established yourself in the business, you should develop a marketing plan to attract more clients. You could create a website, create social media profiles, and network with other stylists in the area to let people know about your services.

Hair extensionist is a profession that requires specialized skills and qualifications. The most important factor to become a successful hair extensionist is to have the right educational and professional qualifications. To acquire such qualifications, one must pursue specialized courses and obtain certification.

After gaining the necessary qualifications, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, techniques and product knowledge. As a hair extensionist, one must be knowledgeable about the different types of hair extensions such as clip-in, fusion, micro links, and tape-in. With the right knowledge, it ensures that the process of attaching extensions is done correctly, safely and quickly.

Having the correct certifications and continuously improving skills and knowledge will help to elevate the level of service that a hair extensionist can provide. This in turn can lead to more satisfied clients and a successful career.

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Job Description

Consult with clients to determine the best hair extensions for their hair type and desired style.
Measure, cut and install hair extensions to ensure a natural-looking, comfortable fit.
Educate clients on proper care and maintenance of their hair extensions.
Clean and maintain the work area and equipment to ensure safety and sanitation standards are met.
Create customized hair extension styles to meet the specific needs of each client.
Perform regular maintenance and touch-up services such as re-tightening, re-taping, and blending lines.
Create hair extensions color blends that match a clients natural hair color.
Manage inventory of hair extensions, tools, and other supplies.
Keep current with trends in the hair extension industry by attending classes or seminars.
Provide excellent customer service to ensure clients have a positive experience.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Expert knowledge of hair extension techniques, including fusion, tape-in, micro-beading, and sewn-in extensions
Familiarity with different types of hair extensions, such as virgin human hair and synthetic hair
Ability to match the color and texture of the client's natural hair with the extensions
Ability to advise clients on the best hair extensions for their hair type
Ability to use a variety of professional tools, such as combs, scissors, and clippers
Knowledge of proper sanitation and sterilization techniques for all tools
Knowledge of safe application methods for hair extensions
Ability to properly apply and remove hair extensions
Ability to trim and style hair extensions
Ability to create custom styles for clients using hair extensions
Excellent customer service skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Strong organizational skills

Becoming a successful hair extensionist requires a variety of skills, ranging from creative styling abilities to technical skills. An aptitude for problem-solving is also essential for success. A deep knowledge of hair care is especially important, as you need to understand the different types of hair, the different products and treatments used, and how to work with each type of hair.

Furthermore, having excellent customer service skills is critical for developing and maintaining relationships with clients. Being able to listen to their needs and provide them with the best possible solutions is essential. Finally, having a good eye for detail is necessary for ensuring that extensions are properly fitted and styled to give a natural look.

By mastering these skills, you will be able to achieve success as a hair extensionist.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the field of hair extensions?
Describe the techniques you use to apply hair extensions.
What challenges have you faced in working with hair extensions?
What do you think are the most important qualities of a successful hair extensionist?
How do you remain up-to-date with new trends in hair extensions?
What safety measures do you take when applying hair extensions?
How do you remove hair extensions without damaging natural hair?
What strategies do you use to work with different types of hair textures?
What do you think sets you apart from other hair extensionists?
How do you ensure that clients are satisfied with their hair extension results?

Common Tools in Industry

Hair Clips. Used to secure hair extensions in place. (eg: metal alligator clips)
Hair Threader. Used to pass the hair extensions through the natural hair. (eg: crochet hook)
Hair Extension Tape. Used to attach hair extensions to the natural hair. (eg: double-sided adhesive tape)
Hair Extension Brushes. Used to detangle hair extensions. (eg: boar bristle brush)
Hair Extension Heat Tools. Used to seal the bonds of hair extensions. (eg: flat iron)
Hair Extension Cutting Tools. Used to trim and customize hair extensions for a natural look. (eg: thinning shears)
Hair Extension Styling Products. Used to style and maintain hair extensions. (eg: hairspray, mousse)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Society for Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS)
National Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Association (NHC)
The American Board of Certified Hair Extensionists (ABCHE)
International Association of Trichologists (IAT)
Hair Extension Association of America (HEAA)
Stranded Professional Hair Extensionists Association (SPHEA)
American Hair Extensions Alliance (AHEA)
American Professional Institute of Hair Extension Education (APIHEE)
International Association of Professional Hairdressers and Estheticians (IAPHE)
International Hair Extension Certification Council (IHECC)

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Common Important Terms

Hair Weaving. The process of attaching extensions to a persons natural hair, usually done with sewing.
Hair Bonding. A method of attaching extensions to the natural hair using adhesives.
Hair Extensions. Artificial hair pieces designed to add length and volume to a persons existing hair.
Hairpiece. A small piece of artificial hair that is used to hide a bald spot or provide a new look.
Hair Closure. A hairpiece used to close off a weave or extension installation, usually made of lace or silk.
Hair Coloring. The process of changing the color of ones hair, either temporarily or permanently.
Hair Styling. The art of arranging and styling a persons hair in the desired look.
Hair Cutting. The act of trimming and shaping a persons hair to create a new look or style.
Hair Removal. The process of removing unwanted hair from the body through various methods such as waxing, threading, or laser treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do Hair Extensionists need?

Hair Extensionists typically need to have a cosmetology or beauty school certification or license and must be trained in hair extension techniques before they can offer services professionally.

How much do Hair Extensionists charge?

Prices can vary widely depending on the type of hair extensions used and the length of the hair. Generally, Hair Extensionists can charge anywhere from $100 to $1000 or more per application.

What types of hair extensions are available?

Hair extensions can be made from natural human hair, synthetic fibers, or a combination of both. Common types of hair extensions include clip-ins, tape-in, fusion, micro-beads and sew-in.

How long does a hair extension application take?

Depending on the type of extension chosen and the length of the hair, the application process can take anywhere from a few hours to several hours.

How long do hair extensions last?

The lifespan of hair extensions can vary depending on the quality of the extensions and how well they are cared for. Generally, high-quality extensions can last up to four months with proper care and maintenance.