At Fire Monkey International we often get calls from clients, seeking advice and sharing their hair extension experiences with us. We sincerely hope that providing the following information will help you make an education, responsible decision when choosing a Hair Extension Artist. There are many wonderful, qualified hairdressers out there. Our goal is to help you find them, get great looking hair, and enjoy your experience.

1. You and your stylist should be able to communicate well. Is s/he patient? Does s/he listen well, and can s/he answer your hair extension questions? Also, speaking the same language is important when getting any service, but it's absolutely essential here. You may be thinking this is obvious, but that hasn't proven to be true, so after a few desperate phone calls, we thought we'd just mention it.

2. Most extension artists will offer a one-time free consultation. This service needs to be well planned with all your options, expenses and maintenance explained before you start shelling out your hard earned dollars.

3. A real professional will keep detailed records on file for each and every one of their extension clients. During your consultation, you should fill out a questionnaire regarding your health, hobbies, and normal hair routine, etc. In addition to recording your general contact information it will help the stylist determine if doing this service is actually in your best interest.

4. Another part of the consultation should be an analysis of your scalp and hair. Although the Monkey Barrz Hair Extension Adhesive System has proven great results on many hair textures and conditions, some client's simply are not suitable for receiving this service. If your stylist has concerns about doing the extensions on you, s/he may recommend doing a "test-run". This means adding only a few extensions for a period of time to determine if your hair is strong and healthy enough to sustain the additional hair. This is a "better safe than sorry" measure, and should definitely be taken if recommended. On the other hand, the Extension Artist may feel it necessary to refuse to do the service if s/he feels your hair would be unduly damaged by it. These are signs of a true professional, not someone who simply wants your money for a one time deal.

5. Since every one has different needs and desires for this service, your stylist should base your estimated cost of service on what the two of you decide to do. Cost may be a large factor in that decision. Not everyone requires the same amount, length or color of hair, extensions applied, chemical services, etc. Your stylist should give you a written estimate, with an itemized list of the services required to achieve your new look. Just remember, if you change your mind, it will probably change the price.

6. We highly recommend stylists give a written maintenance plan along with the hair extensions. This helps to eliminate most confusion later, as you're getting used to the new you. Plus, experience tells us, you'll be too excited during the process to really listen to your hairdresser preaching the virtues of good extension care. This plan should provide recommendations for products, grooming tools, and most definitely a follow-up appointment.

7. Many stylists will require you to pre-pay for your hair and possibly make a deposit to hold an appointment space for you. This is becoming more and more standard as stylists find more and more demand for their talent. Since the extension process does take more time, planning and preparation than most other services, you may be required to secure your appointment with some kind of contract. This is different than a salon requiring a long term contract, asking for monthly payments for some kind of "maintenance plan". Depending on the stipulations in the contract, you may want to check out other salons if this mandatory.

8. Does your stylist have pictures of their work? A simple photo album, even if shot with a Polaroid Camera, can give you a good indication of the talent behind the chair. Don't be afraid to ask your hairdresser if s/he has clients who are willing to share their "extension experience" with you. Many clients out there love their hair, think their hairdresser is fantastic and are more than happy to advertise it.

9. Finally, under no circumstances should your hairdresser require you to go out and purchase your own glue. The person you're about to trust with your hair should be a professional, one who uses professional products designed specifically for this purpose. Monkey Barrz is sold only to licensed hairdressers, so if you're asked to go to a craft store and get your own glue...RUN. Our whole system is designed to work together, from installation, to removal. Our adhesive and removing solution are packaged with the Monkey Barrz Logo. No matter what extension system your stylist uses, make sure they use a "system".

So kiddywigs, these are just some basic guidelines, but you get the picture. If there's any way we can be of assistance, don't hesitate to contact us. If you already have a person doing your hair who has won your lifelong dedication...have them check out our web site. All we need is verification of their license, and we can get them started as a Monkey Barrz Hair Extension Artist.