Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1483267
N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 47 Ask any hairstylist if they are interested in making more money—and you'll hear a resounding "Yes!" But there are only so many hours in a day, right? So, it can be tough to add clientele as a way of increasing your bottom line. Instead, what you really need is a trendy add-on service to multiply the cash you already earn from your loyal clientele. That add-on service? Hair extensions! WHY SHOULD I ADD THIS SERVICE? Hair extensions are a great example of how stylists can make more money without necessarily adding more clients. And adding the service of a few hair extensions— or a head full—will increase your income without you having to work overtime. That said, once the word gets out, you may end up with more clients anyway. Hair extension specialists are increasingly in demand, so it may be possible to pick up extra gigs outside the salon, such as working runways, hair shows, video shoots, weddings, and even proms. Hair enhancements play an important role outside of fashion too. For instance, cancer patients experiencing hair loss or clients experiencing premature thinning could also benefit from extensions. Marketing your hair extension services to hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities outside your regular clientele will help you build your extension business. THAT SOUNDS AWESOME! WHAT'S NEXT? According to Liz Kline, cosmetology operations manager at AHP, hair extensions are not a service for every licensed professional. She warns that it takes "a lot of time, patience, and practice to master the art of extensions— especially considering the integrity of the natural hair on which some of these extensions are applied." So first, you'll need to commit to learning the skills required for extensions. It will take some time up front, but it will pay huge dividends once you master the craft. SO, HOW DO I GET CERTIFIED? According to Kline, many schools teach basic hair extension education in their curriculum. For schools that don't offer extension education, stylists can seek out companies that offer certifications and training courses. Kline says anyone interested in getting additional information on hair extensions and tyler nix/unsplash