the link, issue12

tel • 323 651 1900 fax • 323 651 1550www.dimplesusa.com [email protected]

remy hair • european hair • virgin european hair • eyebrows • medical wigs top pieces • french tops • custom made

ON THE COVER: 20 Be In the Top of Your Class! Special Education Section 14 How to Prepare Your Client’s for Price Increases 35 How to Take Great Before and After Photos

Features: 7 The Changing Face of the Beauty Industry 9 Expanding Your Practice With Effective LLLT Hair Loss Solutions 11 2014 Excellence in Education Award 14 How to Prepare Customers for Price Increases

Education: 20 Quality Training is Essential to Hair Extension Specialists 22 Education is Key to Aiding Evolve to “Evolve” 24 HairUWear On The Road 2015 26 Education is the Foundation for Success 28 Learning Is Not A Spectator Sport 30 The Power of Training 32 Who are Good Candidates for Laser Hair Restoration Therapy?

In Every Issue: 6 AHLC Academy 12 Member Spotlight 17 Product Spotlight 17 New Members 35 Tricks of the Trade: How to Track Client’s LLLT Progress

Subscription Information:

ISSUE 12 • 2014THE EDUCATION ISSUE

Subscriptions to The Link, The Voice of the American Hair Loss Council are mailed FREE to members of the AHLC within the continental United States. International members are provided digital copies free. Please contact us for additional shipping rates if you are an AHLC member outside the US and wish to receive a printed edition.

Non-member subscription price: $60 annually within the continental United States, $85 International.

To become a member, renew your membership, or subscribe to The Link as a non-member, please contact Betty Ann Bugden, Membership Director, 570-462-1101 or log on to www.AHLC.org.

page 20

The Link Issue 12, Winter 2014 3

The Link The Voice of the AHLC

The Link, The Voice of the American Hair Loss Council is the official, quarterly publication of the American Hair Loss Council. For information on advertising or contributing to content, please contact us: The American Hair Loss Council 30 South Main, Shenandoah, PA 17976 855.445.9509 or [email protected] The Link Staff: Managing Editor: Janine Thornhill Design and Layout: e-zign Design Group, www.e-zign.comCreative Director: Terrell Thornhill Thanks to our Contributors:Elvira Amankwa, Marketing Manager, New Image, West Palm Beach, FL

Tamim Hamid, Founder, Theradome, Pleasanton, CA

Sue Hanson, President and Co-founder of Evolve Hair Goods and Services, Bonita Springs, FL

Rhonda McCarthy, VP Strategy and Business Development, On Rite, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Carrie Mellage, Kline & Company, Parsippany, NJ

Vikki Parman, CEO/National Education Director, Di Biase Hair Extensions, USA, Farmington Hills, MI

Doug Spike, Business Development & Education Manager, International Hair Goods, Chanhassen, MN

Len Stillman, Director of Professional Services at HairMax Lexington International, Boca Raton, FL

James Todd, Hair Extraordinaire, Dimples, Los Angeles, CA

Sheldon Tuttle, Director of Education, HairUWear, Lenexa, KS

AHLC Board of Directors:Peggy Thornhill, President

Marsha Scott, Vice President

Susan Kettering, Executive Director

Betty Ann Bugden, Treasurer/Membership Director

Joseph Ellis, Board Member

Laura Cole, Board Member

The opinions expressed in The Link, The Voice of the American Hair Loss Council are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Hair Loss Council. The advertisements in The Link do not necessarily reflect the beliefs, opinions or attitudes of the AHLC and does not imply product or service endorsement.

The American Hair Loss Council © All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohib-ited. Published for the AHLC by e-zign Design Group. www.e-zign.com

MESSAGE FROM THE AHLC BOARDby Peggy Thornhill, AHLC President

We trust everyone had a happy Thanksgiving and are gearing-up for a productive and joyous holiday season. Even though we’re about to enter into one of our busiest times of the year, we would like to let everyone know what’s hap-pening now, what’s coming up and what you can look forward to, just around the corner.

IT’S ALL ABOUT EDUCATION: Page 20This issue of The Link, we’ve focussed on the importance of

continued education. I think we all can agree that our industry is in many ways very different than just a few years ago. With medical breakthroughs in hair regeneration, new products that employ new technologies and polymers, all of which require new techniques, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately for hair replacement special-ists, our industry also enjoys an abundance of top-quality educational programs by manufacturers, vendors and experienced specialists. It’s because of these special people, each with the heart of a teacher, that we dedicate this issue. It’s because of you that we all stay up-to-date, in-the-know, confident, informed and ultimately keep our industry strong. And speaking of education, it’s almost Conference Time again!

UPCOMING 2015 CONFERENCE: Page 18Last year’s Annual Conference was the largest, most well-attended

conference that we’ve had in twenty years. Each attending vendor has already pledged to return, many with their best educator-teams with them. Everyone has been so supportive, encouraging and helpful, that we are confident to announce that we are anticipating the most successful Annual Conference ever in the history of the American Hair Loss Council. See page 18 to take advantage of early registration discounts and watch your mailboxes and in-boxes for details.

WE’RE TURNING 30! Believe it or not, The AHLC is celebrating

it’s 30th anniversary this year. We’re kicking-off this celebration with a special issue of The Link in our next issue. I’m sure there are many of us, who have been members since the early days, will want to tell our stories, dig out the old photos and reminisce a bit. It’s always valuable to take a look back in order to have a clearer vision of the future. This is YOUR celebration and we want to celebrate with you. In addition to dedicating our next issue of The Link to remem-bering and looking ahead, we’ll continue the festive theme well-into the 2015 Annual Conference. There, you’ll see familiar faces, hear their stories and see how you connect with an industry that indeed is alive and well and well-prepared for the future. And just so you can’t say we didn’t warn you, you may want to also start looking for and dust-off those old “disco shoes.” We do hope to see you there!

Membership Information:For more information call toll-free 855.445.9509 or visit www.ahlc.org.For a membership form visit www.ahlc.org or email [email protected]

thth

www.DiBiaseHairUSA.com • 248.489.890038455 Hills Tech Drive • Suite 200 • Farmington Hills, MI 48335 USA

HAIR EXTENSIONS PREFERRED BY HAIR LOSS PROFESSIONALS &

AS WORN BY NATIONAL BEAUTY PAGEANT COMPETITORS

Di Biase Hair Extension CertificationFor a listing of scheduled certification classes throughout the U.S. please visit at www.dibiasehairusa.com/pages/certification.html or call 248-489-8900.

New Image LabsClasses are ongoing at NIU New Image University. Study anytime anywhere at your own pace. Boost your technical skills, learn about sales and marketing. You even can become certified and attain the New Image Certified Hair Loss Specialist designation and the New Image Certified Master Hair Loss Specialist designation. Set yourself apart from the competition and let the world know that you are a profes-sional. No travel expenses, no time away from the studio. It’s easy now to get trained and certified at www.newimageuniversity.com.

EVOLVE Certification Class1/25-27 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 2/1-3 Sacramento, CA2/15-17 Stamford, CT2/22-24 Orlando, FL3/1-3 San Diego, CAThe Evolve Certification Class is designed to confidently provide the skill set for successfully offering clients hair enhancement and hair restora-tion services, using the Evolve Volumizer. The 3-day educational session includes all materials necessary for the class (Evolve Volumizer, all tools, adaptability ring, mannequin and stand). All participants will be certified by Evolve upon completing the class and listed on the Evolve salon locator at www.evolvinghair.com. Graduates will also receive ad-ditional online education and marketing support. For more information inquire online or at 866.779.2880

HairUWear On The Road seminars will take place in Raleigh-Durham, Minneapolis, Portland and Birmingham, Alabama and revisiting our most popular destinations such as San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale as well as at our Development Center. Contact the HairUWear Education Department for more information or to register at 888.389.4785

International Hair GoodsJanuary 12 – Micro Point Solutions Training – Madison, WIFebruary 16 – Micro Point Solutions Training – Madison, WIMarch 15 – Micro Point Solutions Training – IHI Development CenterMarch 16-17 – Intro to Women’s Hair Replacement – IHI Dev. CenterMarch 23 – Cyberhair/Private Issue Training – IHI Development CenterDates Subject to Change. For more information or to register for classes please call International Hairgoods, 800-328-0311. www.internationalhairgoods.com

Invisible HairWe teach private women’s hair replacement classes featuring the patented Invisible Hair Grafting Attachment to one student at a time, in our San Diego location. Seven separate one and two-day classes available. For more information please contact, Invisible Hair, (760)-727-977, [email protected], www.invisiblehair.com

AHLC Academy Class Listings

The Changing Face of the Beauty Industry and the Professional Channel By: Carrie Mellage, Vice President of Consumer Products for Kline & Company

The beauty retailing landscape is constantly in flux and has changed

dramatically in the 50+ years that Kline has been tracking the market. The con-sumer’s path to purchase is not always clear as offline and online shopping are more intertwined than ever before. Alternate shopping channels and sub-channels once dis-missed by many in the indus-try as being “negligible” or

“insignificant” have emerged as “essential.” Digital has moved from the peripheral to the epicenter of a brand’s marketing and distribution strategy. Brands that were previously exclusive to the professional channel are now using retail outlets as part of their channel strategies. The internet has become a legiti-mate venue for professional products thanks to initiatives like Loxa Beauty by BSG and L’Oréal’s collaboration with StyleSeat. The formula for a winning marketing approach can be created based on the right retailing mix and what is appropriate for a particular product, brand, or category.

The professional sector has always

been a place where consumers can find a high level of quality when it comes to both service and products. Professional outlets—which include salons, spas, beauty institutes, and doctors’ offices—account for about 7% of total U.S. market sales when factoring in back-bar (professional use) products, making it the smallest retail outlet.

In contrast, mass outlets (food stores,

drug stores, and mass merchandisers combined) command the lion’s share of market sales at 61%. Department stores also control a sizable portion at 13% of the U.S. beauty industry. Both of these

channels have been gaining share, while newer venues like online and mobile shopping have also been carving out a growing piece of the shopper’s basket. What do these outlets have that the professional sector lacks? For one: Big Data. Until now.

Technology is a driving force that

is changing the face of beauty retail-ing, and retailers are no longer bound by a particular channel. Instead, most view themselves omni-channel in order to reach out to the largest possible audience made up of smaller sub-demo-graphics. Technology has also made it possible to capture information and insights on shoppers and transactions like never before.

Kline has teamed with the Profes-

sional Beauty Association (PBA) for its own “big data” initiative: to offer a source for timely, detailed sales perfor-mance data on the professional beauty market. Based on transactional data culled from a panel of independent salons, chain salons, and distributors, this data initiative yields category,

brand, and product-level sales data on a quarterly basis.

Among the highlights from the data

just released covering Q2 2014 is that men do like to look stylish, so long as it’s quick and easy. Products specifically

targeting men outpaced the overall market in both chain and independent salons. Of particular note are products that add texture, which com-prise 84% of men’s hair styling products. The top items in this segment are American Crew’s Forming Cream, fol-lowed by two items from Paul Mitchell’s Mitch line: Reformer Strong Hold Textur-izer and Clean Cut Medium Hold Styling Cream.

Treatments is another

bright spot, with the second quarter of 2014 witnessing the product type’s highest sales since 2012. The treat-

ment segment currently represents 20% of the conditioners category in independent salons. The new Pureology Strength Cure range has helped repair damaged hair and segment sales alike. Kevin Murphy’s BODY.MASS, with its eyelash thickening and lengthening technology, is another one of the top movers for the quarter.

With this type of data now becoming

available, industry participants will be in a better position to identify the latest market trends and emerging product innovations helping the professional beauty industry carve out a larger piece of the total beauty market.

To learn more about the changing

beauty landscape and bright spots in the professional segment, visit www.probeauty.org/klinepro.

Manufacturers’ Sales of Cosmetics and Toiletries by Retail Outlet, 2013

SOURCE: Kline & Company.



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Expanding Your Practice With Effective LLLT Hair Loss Solutionsby Len Stillman, Director of Professional Services at HairMax, Lexington International

Hair loss and thinning hair affects most men and women at some point

in their lives. Over 80 million men and women in the United States suffer from hereditary hair loss. The most common hair loss condition is androgenic alope-cia, also known as hereditary hair loss or male and female pattern baldness.

Successful treatment of hair loss is

greatly dependent on early intervention.Fortunately, hair loss can often be

markedly improved or even reversed with the help of scientifically supported Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), topi-cals and supplements. Most people will seek advice from their hair stylist about their hair loss concerns before consult-ing with a physician. As their first point of contact you can help your clients feel comfortable about discussing their hair loss, provide education and help offer them treatments with proven results. This provides an excellent growth opportunity to build your client base from not only satisfied clients, but also from their referrals.

Follow the Three S’s. They are vital keys to success.• Start Early: Hair loss will not go away, it will only

get worse, so early treatment will yield the best results

• Stay With The Treatment Plan: Stick with the hair loss treatment program

• See Visible Results: Adhering to a treatment plan will yield the best results

Create a Treatment PlanRecommend treatments that are FDA

accredited and proven effective. Low Level Laser Therapy has been success-fully used in hair loss clinics and in physician offices for decades. LLLT is visible light in the red spectrum, which has been clinically proven to success-fully treat hair loss and stimulate the hair follicles to promote hair growth.

LLLT delivers light energy directly to the scalp through a process known as photo biostimulation. The laser light increases the amount of adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP), the fuel of the living cells within the follicle. ATP is integral to the function of the cell as an “energy transporter,” promoting an increase in cellular activity, which helps to create an optimal environment for hair growth.

In addition, the energy from laser

light is thought to increase blood flow and circulation to the scalp and may help remove harmful elements such as DHT, the hormone responsible for hair loss. Laser treatments deliver gentle, nourishing laser light directly to your hair follicles, infusing them with the energy needed to stimulate growth fac-tors, extend the growth phase and help restore a healthy hair cycle.

You can offer these treatments in

your salon with a hooded laser, and/or offer an at home device, such as the FDA Cleared HairMax LaserComb as an alternative to in salon treatment or to complement them. Laser treatments energize hair follicles, stimulate hair growth, reverse the thinning process, increase density and fullness and revi-talize damaged hair.

Include Topicals, Wet-lines and Supplements

Be sure to offer hair care products that are specifically designed for treat-ing thinning hair. Shampoos should be sulfate free, low pH and are formulated with DHT blockers, antioxidants and therapeutic botanicals to restore bal-ance, optimize scalp health.

Leave-in treatments are also good

options. Minoxidil hair regrowth treat-ment is FDA Cleared for both men & women. HairMax Activator leave-in

serum is formulated with a unique peptide complex and is loaded with a proprietary blend of nutrients, antioxi-dants and DHT blockers known to help support hair regrowth.

Offer additional products that help

support natural hair growth, including dietary supplements. Look for ingre-dients such as folic acid, niacin, beta sistosterol, soy isoflavin (for females) and saw palmetto (for males) and biotin (which plays a pivotal role in cell growth and is known to support healthy hair).

Your support is extremely important

to assure compliance. Your personal treatment plans should include frequent visits to assess your client’s progress and to restock their supply of topical treatments and hair care products. Be sure to track your client’s progress so they can see the changes for themselves. Since regrowth is a gradual process, many clients are astounded at the contrast seen in before and after photo-graphs. It’s common for clients to report that they didn’t realize how severe their hair loss was.

Develop a Media PlanTo further create public awareness of

your salon’s expertise, design advertis-ing, promotions and special events that showcase your hair restoration programs and retail offerings. Creating a media kit with your business creden-tials is an excellent way to present your expertise.

Be sure your website highlights your

specialties, experience and products. Make yourself available as an expert speaker to your local community.

In addition to lasers, we offer a

comprehensive line of products to help your clients address and effectively treat their hair loss.



Join us for our Annual

2015 ConferenceCELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS.

Arrive Sunday, February 15th for a Meet ‘n Greet.

Demonstrations and hands-on training beginning on MON February 16th

and TUE February 17th

All NEW format providing an INTERACTIVE experience.LIVE Styling Demonstrations with Hands On Access

INNOVATIVE Marketing & NEW Hair DesignsInternet CPR, Driving New Business and much more.

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Call 800-327-5555 to reserve your seat.

This will be unlike any conference you have ever attended!

Save The DateFebruary 15 - 16, 2015

2014 Excellence in Education AwardNew Image Labs Corp. is

pleased to honor James “Jimmy” Toscano with the 2014 Excellence in Education Award for a lifetime of dedication to hair replacement education

Working with hair runs deep in

the Toscano family. Jimmy looks back on a proud heritage of eight generations of stellar barbers. His grandfather, also called James Toscano, was a “barber surgeon” who not only took care of people’s

hair, but also people’s health. One of the first state licenses issued in Illinois went to Jimmy’s grandfather all the way back in 1917. It is no surprise that Jimmy’s greatest inspira-tion was his father, a professional barber. Jimmy grew up in his dad’s barbershop where he learned the trade first-hand. In 1968, he was enlisted in the Marine Corps where he served in the Vietnam War. In 1970, he returned as a combat veteran and went right back to barbering. What brought him into hair

replacement? The mayor of his town wore a very unsightly hairpiece and, according to Jimmy’s own words, he took it upon himself to find a better head covering for that mayor. And that’s how he embarked on a life-long journey into hair replacement. And what a journey it has been! Over the years, The General never stood still. Tirelessly, he perfected his skills and all the while, inspired others. Jimmy is not only a very successful business owner (Tosca-no’s Hair, Belle Vernon, PA), but is also a leading trainer and educator for the hair replacement industry. His expertise had taken him all over the world and he has imparted his knowledge into genera-tions of hair replacement professionals.

“We are happy to honor Jimmy

Toscano with the coveted Excellence in Education Award,” states Oscar Urzola.

“Jimmy’s life-long dedication and passion for the hair replacement industry truly deserve recognition.”

T H E A B S O LU T E B E S T CO L L E C T I O N S O F W I G S AT O N E CO M P L E T E LY AW E S O M E LO C AT I O N

CALL RICK FOR YOUR FREE CATALOG • (617) 620-6274 Our quality is undeniable. Our expertise is always free.

CALL RICK FOR YOUR FREE CATALOG • (617) 620-6274 Our quality is undeniable. Our expertise is always free.


Hair Builder’s story really begins, in 1984 when Agnes came into the pic-ture. Agnes has no problem in talking about how it all began. Oddly enough, she started in this industry stuffing envelopes. She was working around the people operating the business. She was eager and interested and always waiting for the next opportunity to prove herself. Stuffing envelopes may not seem like a whole lot, but it was an opportunity to be around a lot of people with a lot of information. Agnes was never too proud to ask questions. As she says, “You’d be surprised how much people will tell you about what they know, all you have to do is ask.”

After about a year there was

a buzz in the air about a man-ufacturing company needing a phone sales representative selling franchising and lead demograph-ics. Agnes wanted to give it a shot. Cer-tainly there was training involved and along with the knowledge she acquired she killed it. She was pulling numbers that were greater than people that had been in the position for years. It was at this point that there was a position open in one of the stu-dios/franchises as a bookkeeper. Agnes said it was her opportunity to get into a studio to see how it all happened. She made it known this is what she wanted and she got the position.

She loved the business. Imagine,

she was in a studio with sales people doing what they do, the technicians running around doing what they do and there was Agnes in the back room. She slowly became the go-to person. That studio went through many changes over the years. The primary owner of that studio was the individual who got the franchise on its feet in the

early 1980’s. Partner’s were coming in and going out and so were technicians. So Agnes took it upon herself to get her cosmetology license. It took her a

few years but the goal she set out to accomplish was complete. Now that she had her license, all she needed was an opening and that didn’t take long. She wasn’t just in charge of the studio and the finances; she was running the floor as well. So let’s get this straight, Agnes Perellie who started out as an envelope stuffer, went to phone sales with the

manufacturing company, then to book-keeping/technician/manager, bought into the business in 2006? She excelled everything she put her hands on and was underestimated every step of the way yet never allowed it to interfere with her goal which was simply to succeed.

In 2012 Agnes Perellie became the

soul owner of Hair Builders in Williston, VT. She has been involved with educa-tion (training others in hair replace-ment) also in the designing of hair replacement systems. Hair Builder’s is a Laser Center and Extension Studio. We have worked with many of the Miss Teens and Miss/Mrs. Vermont’s. Agnes run’s a studio that is a fine tuned

machine. Surgical Consults, Cosmetic Hair Replacement...Cancer Care Hair replacement, ... a member of Transi-tions and The AHLC. She is educated beyond what is expected of most. She did it on her own. Now her daughter, Karen, is in the fam-ily business. Talk about a rags to riches story.

If you ask her what advice she could

give you, “NEVER, LET ANYONE TELL YOU... YOU CAN’T DO IT! Continue your education. Join the organizations that are out there to educate you, like the AHLC. Go to hair shows, keep up with the advances and don’t let it get stale. Keep it fresh and new for, your client, your staff and for yourself. Net-working and knowledge is power.”

If you ask her how she got here, she

will tell you, The Good Lord, a support-ive family and a great staff. She may not have started, in the family business, but she came up through the ranks.

Member SpotlightAgnes Perellie, Hair Builders, Williston, VTby Lisa Lindberg, a former employer that became a good friend.

12 The Link Issue 12, Winter 2014

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By: James Todd, Dimples

How to Prepare Customers for Price Increases

With yearly price increases, local competition, and Internet stores,

how can hair replacement centers and wig boutiques continue to make healthy profits? As wholesale/manufacturers, my father, my brother and I have seen the industry change from classiness-to tackiness- to prestige. Price increases are inevitable in every industry. When there’s a price increase we all feel the pinch. However, there are some solu-tions and choices we can make together to keep our industry profitable for everyone.

Why We Have Price IncreasesIf we can understand why we get

yearly price increases we can better edu-cate our customers. We often hear that natural hair is diminishing in supply every year. It makes sense because nat-ural hair is a raw material that cannot be manufactured. So, the price goes up due to the scarcity of the raw material. Most of the world’s hair comes from China and India, but as these countries grow and prosper, less and less of the locals sell their hair.

On the other hand, whether facto-

ries deal with natural hair or synthetic hair, every year the minimum wage in each province increases. Also, as we buy more and more from each country, the country becomes richer. It’s great that we are helping their economies, yet this often spurs the growth of different factories manufacturing higher priced goods. Many of the skilled workers leave the hair factories to work at the newer factories. The hair factories constantly have to increase their pay to incentivize workers. It takes years for factory workers to be skilled at making hand tied wigs and top pieces, but they lose workers to other factories every day. This is actually happening within our own industry. The labor to make a

hand tied synthetic hair wig costs the same as the labor to make a natural hair hand tied wig. So, it’s getting harder and harder for synthetic factories to keep their good hand tied workers.

I’ve often heard that the hair indus-

try mirrors the clothing industry. The clothing industry follows poverty around the world. The clothing industry uses very skilled workers to make their products by hand. The majority of their manufacturing takes place in develop-ing countries. From time to time they move from country to country sourcing different factories. When a developing country’s economy grows too much they seek cheaper labor in another country. For this very reason, many clothing companies do not own their own factories.

During the last few decades, the

manufacturing of hair solutions has also moved from country to country. At one time factories were in Hong Kong and Korea. Currently, most of the world’s hair factories are in China. With its great size, China has many provinces with different wage rates and property values, so it has been consistently producing hair for years. However, over the last decade, other countries around South East Asia also manufacture hair.

What We Can DoEducate our customers on why we

have to give price increases. Price increases can be mentioned well ahead of time in contracts, on receipts and on invoices to customers (maybe with a little explanation). We can also help our industry by maintaining and respecting the current high status and positioning of our natural hair solutions. In other words, by not pricing too low.

We are in the golden age for hair replacement. Thanks to the popularity of hair extensions, pop stars, and movie stars; wigs, top pieces, and hair systems are socially acceptable. In fact, natural hair solutions are more than socially acceptable; they are close to becoming a fashion statement once again.

When my father first started Dimples

in 1968, wigs and hair solutions were fashion items. Most women owned several wigs. And, most of these women didn’t have thinning hair. Back then all wigs were made with natural hair and were NOT priced for value; they were priced at a premium. The pricing helped the positioning of the industry. Yet, after a few years, wigs became avail-able everywhere and pricing became the only determining factor. Not much servicing was offered and many of these wig boutiques had no brand, strategy or competitive advantage - other than sell-ing at the cheapest price. Wigs lost their prestige and became a commodity. Our industry lost its reputation and wigs became a joke.

Recently I was reminiscing with a

friend whose parents were also in the hair industry. Growing up in the 1980’s, we were embarrassed to tell anyone that our parents worked with wigs. Other kids even made fun of us. But, after decades of bad press the industry has bounced back. Today we’re proud to tell everyone what we do and how we help people. It’s amazing, how the percep-tion of our industry has shifted. We are all lucky to be in the



industry now with such a positive image. If we are mindful of our posi-tioning, together we can keep the posi-tive perception of hair solutions alive for decades.

Differentiating OurselvesIf we only attract customers with

prices, then we will only attract the price-conscious. If another hair replace-ment center opens up across the street with cheaper prices, then that’s where our customers will go. Instead of selling on price or in fear of price increases, there are other solutions we can use to differentiate ourselves. Offering great service along with cut-ins, washing, repairs, coloring and ventilating will always be a winner over the Internet stores. Branding is another powerful way to keep customers loyal.

What is your customer’s perception of your business? Does it align with what you know you excel at? A great way to start brainstorming about your branding is to think of your story. A genuine story that people can relate to may separate you from the rest. Stories are far more captivating than some business lingo on who you are and what you’ve done. There are many hair replacement centers that are owned by cancer survivors. Their stories often resonate to their customers in a powerful way. We can also step outside and look at other indus-tries. One of my favorite companies is Tom’s. I love what they stand for and I

love how their story shaped their brand. While backpacking in Argentina, the owner Blake Mycoskie, saw many poor children running around with no shoes. Many of them had foot problems as a result. None of the shoes donated by charities were small enough for their lit-tle feet. He also noticed that the locals all wore some slip-on shoes that were made in Argentina. As a result, Blake made these same shoes in Argentina but with wild colors and styles for the North American market. And, for every pair of shoes he sold in the U.S. he gave a pair to a child in need in a developing country. Tom’s stands for Tomorrow’s shoes (I always thought the owner’s name was Tom) and their slogan is “One for One.” In his book Start Something That Matters, Blake says any chance he gets, he tells his story. Without the story of Tom’s, they’d be just another shoe company. (FYI—I bought 7 pairs!)

When we were re-branding Dimples

in the U.S., we chose the name of ‘Leading Man & Woman’ then changed it to ‘Leading Hair’. Then we thought hard, “What’s our story, what’s our brand? Who are we in the U.S.?” We considered all kinds of things. At the time, the name Dimples was out of the question because I wanted something new. We’d been using Dimples

since 1968 in Europe but I had never heard the story of Dimples until my father told me recently. When he was younger he passed by a young lady with the cutest smile and the most adorable dimples. She always smiled as they crossed paths. Then one day he asked her out. It turned out she worked in a wig boutique. And the rest is history.

Keep your customers “bonded” to you

by offering more services, price fairly (but not too low to send the industry back into the 1980’s) and by having a genuine story to tell. You’ll soon have a brand that your customers will remem-ber and trust.

Dimples focuses on natural hair

solutions in three different qualities: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. From Remy Hair to Virgin European Hair wigs and top pieces, also with hair solutions for men. Located in Los Angeles U.S.A. and Manchester England.



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Amalia Ruggiero, Capilia Truly YouOntario, CanadaFor over 20 years Capilia Truly You has established itself as one of the top hair replacement companies in Canada. In 1994, Amalia Ruggiero founded Truly You Hair Solution Centre with a focus on providing wigs and hair alternatives for women and

children with genetic or medical hair loss. Today hair transplants are also available and clients love our tailored 5 step approach to prepare the scalp and speed heal-ing. Co-owners, Amalia and Caroline Ruggiero are certified Trichologists. With a staff that includes 5 hair replacement stylists and two office managers, the clinic is designed to meet the sensitive needs of every client. In addition, Amalia is the co-founder and director of Angel Hair for Kids Program, which provides wigs to chil-dren with hair loss in Canada. She has volunteered for 15 years with the Look Good Feel Better Program and sits on the board and is one of the founding members of Capilia Canada. Amalia is also involved with Business Professional Women helping to improve the lives of women in Canada that are victims of poverty and abuse.

Gokhan OrmenHDC Hair Design Centersİstanbul, TurkeyI got my first hair replacement in 1991 in Los Angeles during a business trip and had to open the first center, HDC Hair Design Center, in Turkey the same year. Back then nobody

knew about this technology and I needed monthly service. It became a big success and in the following years HDC was opened in many cities through Turkey and Europe. In 2000 we started doing hair transplants and at the same time became a wholesale import- distrubution center suppliying many hair replacement centers through the area. In 2002 I set up a small factory to process hair for keratin hair extensions and started to supply hair salons, exporting to Europe and Middle East. Today in our area, HDC is regarded as the most innovative and technolgy oriented pioneer against hair loss.

Welcome New Members!

Product Spotlight

To become a member or renew contact Betty Ann Bugden, Membership Director, 570-462-1101 or log on to AHLC.org.

Dimples Natural Eyebrows For women and men that want full natural eyebrows to complement their wig, top piece or hair system, Dimples eyebrows are a non-surgical solution. Natural hair is individually injected into a thin PU base by our factory. Each eyebrow can then be bonded to the desired area for up to four days. With regular care a pair of Dimples natural eyebrows can last approximately four months. www.DimplesUSA.com 800-327-7100 [email protected]

New Evolve Volumizer with Invisible Part Evolve Hair Goods and Services announces the new “Invisible Part Volumizer.” The Volumizer is a hair integration system that is non-invasive, non-damaging, chemical and adhesive free. It can be worn day and night for four to five weeks at a time before being reset. The invisible part Volumizer comes in right, left and center parts and can be worn by itself or over extensions to add volume. 866-779-2880 www.EvolvingHair.com

Alexia Now Offered in a Larger Size New Image has expanded the horizon of our model Alexia family. Due to popular demand, this favorite full cap hair replacement solution for women is now available in 56 cm circumfer-ence! Not all not all heads are shaped and sized equally. That’s why Alexia LWALEXIA56 now comes in 56 cm circumfer-ence. It’s the perfect solution for your female daily-wear clients with larger heads. The non-slip flex form strap adjusts automatically for a perfect fit and the new flex form technology guarantees the utmost in comfort to the wearer. Perfect for medical needs clients as well. This is what you have been waiting for! Finally the solution for female clients with large head sizes! 800-359-4247 www.newimagelabs.com



2015 AHLC ANNUAL CONFERENCE

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I M A G E S F R O M 2 0 1 4 C O N F E R E N C E

thth


WE ASKED MANUFACTURERS: “WHAT’S YOUR APPROACH TO EDUCATION?”

By: Vikki Parman, CEO/National Education Director, Di Biase Hair USA

Continuing education and offer-ing information on what’s new in

the field or providing extra training in areas of specialty in any profession keeps practitioners up to date. Doc-tors or lawyers, for example, usually choose an area of specialization but the best realize they must continue to seek knowledge and training to retain a competitive edge. Similarly, many stylists choose to specialize in areas of hairdressing in which they excel, such as hair color, cutting, styling or extensions. Those that work at the highest levels understand that, without continued growth through knowledge or train-ing, they will have a hard time meeting the high demands of their clients or maintaining the fast pace of trends and styles. At a minimum, developing skills and knowledge through innovative and substantive educational programs adds a level of excitement and may help to re-ignite the passion and love that a stylist has.

In the world of strand-by-strand hair

extensions, there is nothing as critical as comprehensive, competent training. Simply stated, a stylist should never attempt to apply a fusion bond without having first received quality instruc-tion in application, maintenance and removal. In the hands of an untrained stylist, damage to the client’s hair is practically inevitable, often resulting in permanent hair loss. It is the extension-ist’s obligation to learn not only how to apply but also how to educate the client in the care of her extensions. While extension services can be extremely lucrative, the first client should not even be allowed to sit in the chair unless the stylist is fully prepared to undertake full responsibility for that client’s well being. Becoming trained is the first step, it is the most obvious and it is the most important.

As important and mainstream as hair extensions have become, hair extension training is not a core, or even peripheral, component in the curriculum of most beauty schools. Fortunately, and we are seeing growth in this area, some schools are now offering companies the chance to come in and train classes that are nearing graduation. We have provided training at a number of schools across the country, and have put on demon-strations at many more. I love that they are offering this kind of opportunity to their students. Still, those schools are in the minority and most new hair dress-ers are left to search on their own for training should they decide to pursue extensions as a specialty.

Accordingly, if education is to take

place at all, it is left to private compa-nies to offer both basic and advanced training to cosmetologists. Companies like ours undertake that responsibility willingly, both out of genuine concern and also because we want each con-sumer that wears our hair to have posi-tive experiences. We struggle enough as it is with perceptions and myths and we need to assure that the real value of extensions, the overall satisfaction and the image restoring potential, receives its due.

With those considerations in mind, it

is an absolute necessity that the stylist is educated in the application of hair extensions by a company that offers substantive, quality training and not some relatively worthless, superficial certification procedure. Though the application of bonds is not really that difficult, it must be done correctly or it will cause damage to the hair. There needs to be a live person helping, let-ting the stylist know what mistakes she/he is making and why and providing feedback and praise when the proper technique is achieved. It cannot be

overstated – this competence (and con-fidence) training cannot be done on the phone or by video training.

Bad experiences, unfortunately,

are real life. I have seen far too many extension wearers suffer because their hair stylist lacked true education and training. By the time they come to see me, their hair is usually ripped out due to improper placement, sectioning and uneven weight distribution of the hair. I always ask if a reputable com-pany certified their stylist and if they had their certificate hanging at their station? Another important question I ask is, “Did your stylist explain to you how to care and maintain your exten-sions?” Sadly, but predictably enough, I will typically hear that the stylist wasn’t certified and didn’t explain (probably from lack of knowledge) the care and maintenance of the client’s new hair.

Not too long ago, a young stylist I

had trained called me frantic, saying she needed my help. She had a new client walk into her salon wanting the removal of her old extensions and to have a new application applied. The stylist conducted an initial consulta-tion and then looked to see what type of extension the woman was wearing. She was shocked to discover that the client’s hair was matted and that most of the hair on the sides of her head was gone. Shaken up, as she had never seen anything like this and being afraid to touch the client, the stylist called me. I had her and the client come down to our training center so I could better evaluate the client’s hair. I have never been so horrified in my life; first, to see this poor lady’s hair and then to hear what she said about her stylist. I asked my usual questions and learned: a) This professional, licensed, cosmetologist had not ever taken a class but watched a YouTube video and b) Told her client to

Quality Training is Essential to Hair Extension Specialists


The Voice of the AHLC

go take a class for her and she would pay for the class, giving the client a cosme-tology license to take along so she could pretend to be her. The stylist wanted the client to then come back and teach her how to do them because she had no time to go through a class.

While this is an extreme example,

stylists who skip corners give our pro-fession and extensions a bad reputation! I am pretty sure this happens more than I would like to believe. I am personally dismayed that some stylists don’t see the value in becoming certified, are will-ing to accept a sales pitch that they can learn from a video or receive a legiti-mate certification by sending in a man-nequin for examination. When stylists

work on extensions without adequate training, they usually don’t comprehend their error until it’s too late and the damage has been done to their clients’ hair. What is equally discouraging is that the stylist often doesn’t stand up when the problem becomes evident, failing to even tell the client that she has damaged her hair. This to me is unforgivable.

One of the reasons we started our

company was to provide proper educa-tion at an affordable price. With the demand for extensions on the rise, we wanted to remove as much as possible of the cost impediment of receiving training. Frankly, even notwithstand-ing the cost factor, it is astounding that

cosmetologists would even want to try to do this type of work without knowing that their competency has been evaluated. Without training, there is a very high risk that the exten-sions they apply will cause damage and that, quite possibly, the damage caused will be permanent. It is just so unnecessary.

For the benefit of the

hair extension industry, I would like to see the states demand train-ing in extensions at the beauty school level or, at a minimum, require that a certification course be taken before offering extensions as a service in a salon. Hopefully these or similar requirements are not too far off the horizon. In the meantime, we must depend on the extension companies themselves to do what they can to pro-vide and promote educa-tional programs.

The fact is that exten-

sions can be amazing in their impact. I have seen women literally transform in my chair. Women suf-fering from thinning hair,

who may not be ready for a hair system, have received their confidence back, in some cases viewing the extensions as a life-changing experience. I remember the woman who cried in my chair, tell-ing me, “For the first time in my life I feel beautiful.”

Properly applied and properly

maintained, extensions can create new looks and restore images. I am passion-ate about the value of hair extensions. Therefore I am passionate about the value of education and training for hair extension specialists. Hair extension application must always be joined with knowledge and skill acquired through hair extension education.

“When stylists work on extensions without adequate training, they usually don’t comprehend their error until it’s too late and the damage has been done to their clients’ hair. ”



I think from the very beginning Evolve was destined to be a very dif-

ferent type of company. I have spent almost 40 years in the professional beauty industry as a stylist, salon owner, school owner and have worked for top manufacturers as VP of Educa-tion, Marketing and Sales. I thought I had seen it all however, when I saw the prototype of the Volumizer, I knew that this was something new and exciting for women, salons and stylists. The Evolve Volumizer fills a unique niche.

For the millions of women suffer-ing from hair loss or thinning hair, the Evolve Volumizer is a non-invasive, non-damaging, chemical and adhesive free solution that can be worn day and night for up to four to five weeks. For salons and hair restoration centers, the Volumizer is a big, new revenue generat-ing product/service and helps in the on-going battle of shrinking profit margins. As a service product, the Volumizer is something that can’t be diverted, yet needs to be marketed directly to women with “hair needs and fashion wants.” The key is to build an elite network of highly skilled stylists/salons who com-municate, install, cut and style in the same way, so as to have a predictable end result. By building our company around education, it allows the com-pany to advertise the Evolve Volumizer directly to the consumer knowing the expertise will be successful when the client goes to one of our Evolve certified stylists. The first people involved in the company were skilled hair designers who formed the Evolve Artistic Team and aid in the development of the prod-uct and the training. A company built by hair designers, for hair designers. The client wins, the salon/stylist wins and the company wins, because the product and the training work.

SUCCESSBecause of the unique structure of

Evolve Hair Goods and Services, the company not only focuses on a unique product for a demanding market, it also provides a high level of on-going educa-tion, marketing, advertising and coach-ing assistants. Evolve offers a three-day certification program consisting of the four pillars of success: system instal-lation, a flawless haircut and blending system, consultation and communica-tion skills, and advertising and market-ing support. Success with each of the four pillars provides a virtual guarantee of profitability.

AN EVOLVE CERTIFIED STYLIST’S VIEWPOINT

Stacey Handel, Evolve Certified Styl-ist, Garde Bien Spa Salon, Knoxville, TN, and an AHLC member, “is overwhelmed with the wonderful success she has achieved with the Evolve Volumizer. What the Volumizer has done for my business is amazing. It has set me apart from other salons in my area. I like being the first, the only, the best in the area. I’ve set a precedent for something new and I’m proud of that.” Handel explains, “It’s changed my life also. I’ve had to hire an assistant to help me

with my new Volumizer clients. I never dreamed I could grow my business so fast, with so many new clients. Just this week I’ve added five new clients from one ad. I’ve had to increase my hours because of this explosion in business and it’s forced me to learn to be more efficient.” She notes, “This new tech-nique challenged me at first, but it’s forced me to be a better hair dresser; pulling all of my skills together with new techniques.”

From a business level, Handel points

out, “The beauty of this is when I sell a wig, I cut it and I don’t see the client again. This new hair service is reward-ing, challenging, in high demand, specialized, and brings repeat business in ever 4-5 weeks. Most of the clients I work with were not originally a client,

these are new clients. Fifteen percent of my clients wear Volumizers, and, in addition to this service, also get hair coloring, products, tools, makeup, manicures and pedicures, because of their incredible renewed desire and trust. They become so loyal. I’ve been invited into a place in their heart where no one’s been and I respect that. Our hair defines us. It is our crowning glory and affects everything else we wear. Now hair can be fun for these women. I love that the education included a turnkey business program and provided me with all the tools to be successful in my business.”

By: Sue Hanson, President and Co-founder, Evolve Hair Goods and Services

Stacey Handel Evolve Certified Stylist and AHLC memberGarde Bien Spa Salon, Knoxville, TN

Education is Key to Aiding EVOLVE to “Evolve”



CREATIVE LEADERSHIPJohnny Plant, Evolve’s Artistic Direc-

tor, knows that women not only want hair, they want to look beautiful and that’s what makes the Evolve Volumizer different. We are able to give the client the hair and hairstyle they’ve always dreamed of.

So many people think of the client

and the product as two pieces coming together, but once you melt the two, it becomes one seamless product. This makes us different because of the versa-tility of the product. The Volumizer lays flat, like their own hair, fits their scalp and allows the stylist to use their one structure for cutting, just like cutting a client’s natural hair. Our cutting system is all based on the bone structure of the head.

We teach a cutting system so that we

have a communication bridge for the Evolve family for their creative options. It’s called E-5 and is based on five pure forms. We’ve made it as simple as pos-sible. The key ingredient is the holding angle and the cutting guide. Those two elements give you different weight, movement, and shapes depending on the holding angle and the cutting guide. It takes two or more forms to make up a haircut. We’ve also developed two unique texturizing techniques called buttering and melting that will make the Volumizer and the client’s hair become seamless. You can shake it, bend it, twirl it and you can’t find the difference between the client’s hair and the Volumizer because of our buttering

and melting techniques. We’ve also taken into account the addition of extensions with the Volumizer for that client that wants volume at the top and length. Evolve offers a full day of hands-on cutting and will improve even the most experienced haircutter’s skills. There is no look that can’t be beautifully achieved using the E-5 system

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENTGlenn Michael, VP of Education at

Evolve, says that what makes us differ-ent is Evolve bridges the gap between hair restoration and hair fashion, and the gap between hair restoration and the hair salon. In the past, hair resto-ration provided material, fabric and hair to the client, however the finished product lacked style. Although hair needs individuals want the illusion of more hair, they also desire a fashionable, attractive look. The Evolve Volumizer can achieve this because it can be cut, styled, colored and finished into any contemporary design. It provides the wearable solution for women with fine, thin hair that not only want more hair, but demand a fashionable, finished look.

NEW CLIENTELE BASEThe addition of the Volumizer to

a salon’s service list generates a new clientele; a huge market that pres-ently, rarely or seldom, goes into a hair salon. The reason being, “Why would I spend money to be disappointed?” This disappointment the client refers to is not because of the skill level of the stylist but the lack of the fabric that the stylist has to work with. Once this new client starts wearing the Volu-mizer, this service requires on-going, consistent maintenance, more so than the average non-Volumizer client. Over the last 15 years salons have seen an approximate 30% reduction in services. Because of the economy, the client that

was a 5-week client is now stretching it out to 6-7 weeks. The client who was a highlight and color is only getting color. And the client that was only color is now trying to do it at home, herself. Therefore the existing economy has cre-ated a consumer shift in spending their disposable income.

Although the Evolve Volumizer is low

maintenance, it does require the client to be back in the salon in four to five weeks for an uninstall and reinstall plus additional salon services such as color, treatments and haircuts. This increased frequency of visits also helps to improve retail sales. Therefore, the addition of new clientele, the addition of frequency of service, and the addition of increased retail sales provides to the salon a unique market that makes the salon recession resistant.

Johnny Plant Evolve’s Artistic Director

Glenn Michael, Evolve’s Vice President of Education


At HairUWear, we have been forg-ing new paths in the wig industry

for decades. Our commitment to con-sistently bring innovative technology to the forefront coupled with our dedica-tion to exquisite craftsmanship ensures our products offer incredible color, qual-ity, texture and flexibility. Our custom-ers have the confidence of knowing we offer the highest quality wigs and hair extensions in the world.

Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, HairUWear On The Road offers education for all experience levels, applicable to a variety of professions. Attendees are typically a mix of salon owners and stylists, wig studio person-nel, post-treatment care providers and hair replacement specialists.

Since the program began in 2009,

nearly 2,000 people have attended the

workshop. Each year, we have added new, exciting components to the train-ing – most of which were ideas and requests submitted by past attendees.

On May 5, 2015, HairUWear will

host its first HairUWear On The Road seminar in our new training facility within our new corporate headquarters in Lenexa, Kansas. We’re also venturing into new cities such as Raleigh-Durham, Minneapolis, Portland and Birmingham, Alabama and revisiting our most popu-lar destinations such as San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale and Boston

by Sheldon Tuttle , Director of Education, HairUWear

“Great opportunity for anyone new or old to the wig/extension industry. As a new person breaking into the wig industry, I was pleasantly surprised to have been able to follow along the whole time and not feel lost.”

HairUWear On The Road 2015



We believe in learning by doing. Yes, you’ll sit, listen and learn – but not for long! We’ll keep you busy trying out techniques we teach and you’ll be engaged in a two-way conversation throughout the day. We want you to gain as much as possible from the expe-rience and from the expert knowledge our instructors have to share.

Attendees will learn about fiber

options, cap construction and how to customize wigs from the Raquel Welch® and Gabor® lines with hands-on

steaming, curling, cutting and size alterations.

One of the most rewarding benefits

to attending a seminar is our segment on how to provide efficient, personal-ized consultations and professional services to the hair loss client. Attend-ees leave the seminar with the skills and knowledge to return to their businesses and increase their services and revenue.

Attendees have provided amazing

testimonials such as:

“Best training I’ve been to in a long time. Excellent!”

“Beyond my expectations…great

energy, obvious passion and under-standing of the product.”

Admission to the seminar is $100 per

person, which includes a HairUWear On The Road Kit (a $500 retail value). Contact the HairUWear Education Department for more information or to register at 1.888.389.4785.

“I learned something in the first five minutes of the class that was worth the whole trip. Such a great day! Pumps me up and makes me ready to work!”

The company mission is clearly stated on every professional catalog

and price list: “At International Hair-goods, we continually strive to offer you, the professional, the highest quality and newest solutions in hair restoration.” IHI’s Development Center in Chanhas-sen, MN is irrefutable evidence that this mission extends to education as well as to products. International Hairgoods truly believes that education is the foundation of success!

The International Hairgoods Devel-

opment Center came into existence in mid-1980’s. Hair stylists and busi-ness owners seeking education in the hair replacement business were often frustrated. For the hair replacement

industry to improve, existing hair replacement studios needed advanced educational opportunities in order to offer the latest technological solu-tions to their clients. At the same time, stylists and entrepreneurs with the desire to help thinning clients had few choices for basic education. The novice may have picked up the phone and called a local hair replacement studio asking for help to learn the business. Generally that phone call was met with a roadblock. Many hair stylists asked the question, “Why is hair replacement such a big secret?” IHI listened and the Development Center was born.

Today, the 1350 square foot IHI Devel-

opment Center provides the training

resources needed for the most practical learning environment in a state of the art facility conducive to the educa-tion of hair replacements. Designed to facilitate multiple learning styles, the Development Center is ideal for both hands-on technical training as well as classroom study and product review.

High-tech solutions require high-tech

expertise, so hands-on certification at the Development Center is provided for studios who commit to International Hairgoods exclusive Cyberhair Solu-tions programs: Micro Point Solutions, Private Issue or Cyber Custom Designs. After the initial certification, unlimited ongoing free education is offered to all of the exclusive studios.

LIGHT AS A FEATHERTHE SENTOO WIG COLLECTION

w w w. s e n t o o w i g s . c o m1 . 8 0 0 . 3 2 8 . 6 1 8 2

NOTSOLD ONLINE

THE SENTOO COLLECTION IS

Studios must sign an agreement to this before the initial

order is shipped.

“Sentoo takes all of the best features that everyone wants in a wig to make it comfortable and fit right and

puts those features into every cap.”-Sara Lou Manning

Owner, Custom DesignRogers, AR

www.InternationalHairgoods.com

Education is The Foundation for Successby Doug Spike, Business Development and Education Manager, International Hairgoods




A full schedule of Development Center classes is being offered in 2015. Students can register for Basic Hair Replacement, Women’s Hair Replace-ment and Hair Replacement Business and Sales Training. For those studios that have unique training needs, IHI offers customized studio education through the Development Center.

International Hairgoods commitment

to education extends beyond the walls of the Development Center. Classes are regularly held at convenient regional locations. Customized training is also available at individual studio locations.

While hands-on, face-to-face train-

ing is desirable in order to adequately learn many facets of hair replacement, video training is sufficient for some topics. International Hairgoods offers a menu of excellent training videos, available at no charge to current IHI retailers through a password protected area of the company website, www.

internationalhairgoods.com. Here’s what retailers have to say

about International Hairgoods training:“Exciting educational fun; changed my

life to change others way of life forever.” Chantelle Miller, Worcester, MA

“I got into the hair replacement busi-

ness in 1979. I recently held an in studio training taught by IHI. The education was motivational and added excitement about the business for both me and my staff.” Bill Spitale, Rochester, NY

“While attending IHI’s education

classes I received valuable training to inspire creative solutions to meet the specific needs of my thin haired clients. In addition, the class provided an opportunity to meet and network with other stylists in the hair replacement industry from across the country. To be able to problem solve with other profes-sionals and receive input from their personal experiences was most helpful.” Rebecca Pederson, Minneapolis, MN

For more information or to register

for classes please call International Hairgoods at 1-800-328-6182.

Students enjoy the learning environment at the Development Center




At the age of 87, sculptor, painter, architect, poet, engineer - one of the greatest geniuses that ever lived, Michelangelo declared himself a lifelong learner. Doubtlessly, part of his unmatched legacy was due to his love for and dedication to learning and exploring. Where there is no learn-ing, there is stagnancy. Where there is stagnancy over time there will be decline. If we take this truth and apply it to our industry, it is safe to say that if we, as an industry, are to grow and have sustained success one must-do is to con-stantly evolve and educate ourselves, as individuals and collectively as members of our trade.

It seems that many members of our industry somehow feel the same way. They love to learn, but at the same time they have a hard time being taught. When it comes to education, we have come across many objections, rang-ing from tight budgets to not having someone who can run the studio when they are away for a conference weekend. Another hurdle we often deal with when trying to train and educate hair replace-ment professionals is the notion that they have been in business for so long and therefore they assume they know everything. They hypothetically love to learn, but when the rubber meets the road, they are not ready with an open mind to be taught and much less to implement what they have learned.

We took these objections and have

created programs so that every industry

professional can get something great out of the learning experience. And thanks to the rise of technology, we can incorporate a new level of flexibility into our education with on-demand and online learning. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a novice, we offer a variety of educational formats and programs at different price points to help you and the industry learn and grow. Our programs range from live, in-person training events to online education at NIU, from live and on demand webinars to Skype meet-ups. New Image meets you right where you are and caters to your specific educa-tional needs.

For many of our seasoned industry veterans, we found Skype meet-ups to be very effective. It’s almost like a one-on-one coaching session, personal and close-up. We often do these calls for product-related questions, but also for business-related matters. Suddenly these skeptical learners have a good experience and learning is beautiful to them now because it helped them solve a problem they had. Generally, the New Image educational programs are meant to entice hair replacement professionals at any level to start engaging, develop-ing and learning. Our programs and educational platforms don’t you feel like you’re “back in school”, crammed behind a desk. Some of the global hair replacement industry’s most renowned trainers are part of the New Image presenter roster and the New Image programs are designed to open the mind, inspire, teach impactful lessons and generate business success. In per-son. Online. On demand.

It’s part of the New Image corporate philosophy to have an open door and open ear. We listened to our clients as many requested smaller sized meetings with more intense content. That’s why for 2015 we decided to move forward with the NIU Live Business Success Series. These are a concentrated, all-inclusive educational experience where we will showcase breakthrough business solutions under the umbrella, “Learn today. Sell tomorrow.” Over a three-day period, there will be large segments with practical, hands-on training to ensure success. With education, hotel, meals and entertainment included, these events will take place in West Palm Beach, Florida and are a direct result of clients being involved in simu-lating new educational formats.

We also have various certification

courses online at NIU that are ongo-ing and accessible anywhere, over the whole world, at any time. NIU has the hair replacement industry’s only online educational portal. Through NIU, students can become certified in hair replacement at a very reasonable cost within one year. The certification test can be taken online and as proof of accomplishment, picture submissions of actual hairstyles created are part of the examination process. There is a team of resident hair experts in place to always answer any questions in person, which the online student might have.

On a regular basis, New Image also

hosts live webinars where sales, mar-keting and hair-technical questions are being discussed in an informal atmosphere. In just 30 minutes, the

by Elvira Amankwa, CMP, Marketing Manager, New Image Labs

“I am still learning.” – Michelangelo

“I love to learn, but I don’t want to be taught.”

– Winston Churchill

“I don’t love studying. I hate studying. I like learning. Learning is beautiful.”

– Natalie Portman

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn.”

– Benjamin Franklin

Learning Is Not a Spectator Sport. So Let’s play!



busy hair replacement professional can get inspiration and insight that can turn his day around. Thanks to the Internet, participants from all over the US, and the world meet, “around the screen” to learn in a relaxed atmo-sphere, while in the comfort of their own studio or home. These webinars are then available on demand in the dedicated New Image YouTube channel www.youtube.com/user/NewImageHair.

Another informal, but very effec-

tive educational opportunity we offer are Skype calls (as mentioned above) which are readily accepted by our clients worldwide. Those calls are for problem solving in a confidential, personal, one-on-one business atmosphere.

At New Image the face of education has changed with the many marvels of the Internet and the advent of online education. But over the years, our highest goal remained the same: The great aim of education is not knowledge, but action. That’s our prime objec-tive with all of our educational efforts here at New Image – that the clients who participate in our educational programs will get empowered to take action. Because only action brings forth change. Small steps, large steps, what-ever works for you in your situation. We don’t offer education just for learning’s sake, but with the firm objective to offer actionable solutions and impulses that boost understanding and skills and thus increase business. I always hear from each of our educators and trainers that what makes them most happy and what they perceive as the most gratify-ing aspect of being a teacher is to hear that professionals in the audience have

applied what was being taught and that it has helped them in their situation. That’s the ultimate reward for an educa-tor and also the ultimate roadmap to success for anyone who wants to remain relevant and grow in this industry in this day and age.

As 2015 rolls around, stop being a spectator, become a player and get involved. Call us at 1-800-359-4247 or visit our website at www.newimagelabs.com for updates on the 2015 NIU LIVE BUSINESS SUCCESS SERIES. Stop by www.newimageuniversity.com to learn more about our online certification courses and exams. Join us for one of our webinar series (watch out for the email announcements) or connect with us on Skype (newimage.labs). We are here for you, not only to educate and train but also to help and guide you to take action.

“The great aim of education is not knowledge, but action.”

– Author Unknown

From all of us at

best wishes for a happy

and successful New Year!

And always remember:



Training is not just for beginners. I frequently hear business owners

say that their team is knowledgeable enough and they don’t need additional training. Whether it’s stylists, sales con-sultants or managers - as humans, over time, we can become complacent or pick up bad habits and shortcuts all of which can be dangerous to your business’s overall growth potential.

Business owners should consider the power that training can have on building employee loyalty. Employees appreciate when the company they choose to work with invests in their overall growth and experience. We also know that training can create excite-ment within the entire business, which has a very positive impact on the bottom line and the overall growth of the business. Andy Wright has always been a strong believer in providing all levels of training to our clients. Since On Rite’s inception, we have offered all types of training; from beginners to advanced. We created a beautiful studio environment at our home office in Ft. Lauderdale where classes consist of men’s and women’s hair replacement, from measuring and creating a template to creating a completely undetectable finished look (and all steps in between). We also offer add on classes in medical (for those businesses who want to offer services to women who lose their hair due to medical treatments like chemo-therapy) and Ultratress Extensions. There are choices for clients depending on their needs. You can select a three-day men’s and women’s hair replace-ment class, a one-day Medical class, a one-day Ultratress extension class or a combination of the three.

On Rite realized that some of our clients’ needs had changed and we decided to add additional options. Some found it difficult to travel to Ft.

Lauderdale, spend 4 days training and then travel home. Others wanted to have all of their stylists trained so they could offer consistency to their clients or they didn’t need their stylists trained in the basics. They had unique techni-cal concerns or wanted their stylists trained on a specific technique without having to repeat training they’ve had recently. We listened and created two options for these clients. We now offer

Regional Academies – held throughout the year at different locations across the U.S. This allows business owners to send their stylists for training in hair replace-ment, medical and/or extensions to locations more convenient to them. In addition, we created customizable and affordable in-studio training for busi-nesses that prefer to have the training on-site. Finally, we offer sales training and recently added a business class, held in Las Vegas, for business owners who want a more in-depth knowledge of how to overcome business issues: How to get new business in your door, how to do a successful consultation and close more sales, how to reduce client attri-tion and many, many other topics!

Below is a list of the many train-ing opportunities available. Whatever option you choose please consider choosing something! Training and investing in your team will create excite-ment, teamwork, consistency, overcome specific issues you might be seeing within your client base, eliminate bad habits and will increase your sales and bottom line!

INTERNATIONAL HAIR ACADEMY On Rite Headquarters, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Three-day Men’s and Women’s Hair Replacement Certification Class

This class consists of lecture and hands on training. Learn how to create the perfect mold and customize the new hair, all attachment methods while giv-ing the client a completely undetectable finished look, proper servicing, custom ordering, trouble shooting and much more!

Medical Hair Loss Certification ClassLearn not only how to select the per-

fect wig for the woman who has lost her hair due to medical treatments, but also how to customize for the most natural look and how to handle the emotional consultation. There is information on how to create this side of your busi-ness, how to partner with your medical community, setting appointments with nurses, how to present yourself – your product and your business so the nurses will refer patients to you.

Ultratress One-Day Certification ClassLearn four extension techniques;

UltraLinks (Cold Fusion), UltraStrands (Hot Fusion), Ultratress II (tape method) and Ultratress II, Plus (pre-cut, double density tape method). Learn which method is right for each cus-tomer, proper application and removal techniques, servicing procedures, how

by Rhonda McCarthy, VP Strategy and Business Development, On Rite

“I’ve been in the hair replacement business for 43 years and I presently have two locations in PA. I have a staff of 25 people and we enjoy what we do. I require all my stylists to be re-certified every year to keep up with the latest styles and technology. This is one investment that pays for itself many times over. With all of the money I invest in advertising and the work put into getting new clients, I want to make sure my stylists are well trained to protect my investment and their future… my stylists have been with me anywhere from 10 – 26 years and I attribute some of this longevity to them knowing I am willing to invest in their future. You know the saying, “What goes around comes around”

– A. Frank PetroskyOwner, New Image Hair Clinic

The Power of Training



to add volume or length or both. Also learn how to combine a top of the head attachment with Ultratress extensions for the woman with thinning hair on the top the head where extensions alone will not give her the look she wants.

REGIONAL ACADEMIESTwo-Day Hair Replacement Certifica-tion Class

Class consists of intense hands-on training. Learn how to create the perfect mold and customize the new hair, the most common attachment methods while giving the client a completely undetectable finished look, proper servicing, custom ordering and troubleshooting.

One-Day Medical Hair Loss Certification Class

This curriculum has been approved for continuing credits with ABC and BOC. We follow strict guidelines where attendees learn how to successfully set up a highly profitable medical hair business, setting up a display cranial prosthesis (wig), sleep caps, head wear, products etc.), the medical consulta-tion, how to partner with the medical community, setting appointments with nurses, how to present yourself – your product and your business so nurses will refer patients to you. We also provide insurance billing information, pricing guidelines and many more busi-ness topics. Attendees also learn how to select the perfect cranial prosthesis for women who lose their hair due to medical treatments, customizing for the most natural appearance and troubleshooting.

Ultratress One-Day Certification Class

Attendees will learn four extension techniques; UltraLinks (Cold Fusion), UltraStrands (Hot Fusion), Ultratress II (tape method) and Ultratress II Plus (pre-cut, double density tape method). Attendees learn which method is right for each customer, proper application and removal techniques, servicing pro-cedures, how to add volume or length or both. They also learn how to combine a top of the head attachment with Ultra-tress extensions for the woman with

thinning hair on the top of her head where extensions alone will not give her the look she wants, and much more!

Regional Business AcademyThis class is for business owners

only! Business owners may decide to either bring their sales consultant or send them alone (in which case we will require the business owner’s approval). There is no technical training involved. This class teaches how to increase your business and make it more profitable! We bring some of the best minds in the industry to share their knowledge and tips. If you’re looking for ways to increase new business, how to add membership programs to your exist-ing client base, reduce client attrition, handle employee/staffing concerns and other business topics – this is the meet-ing for you!

IN STUDIO TRAININGThis class is 100 percent customized

to your business needs. It is created for your team and one of the most popular training programs we offer. Training is held at your business, with your team and your clients as models (if needed). Prior to the training we discuss your

concerns and expectations and design the curriculum around that conversa-tion. A customized agenda is created and approved by the business owner. Maybe you want your team to learn only one technique because they are adept with the others, or you might be seeing an increase in client issues – this train-ing is created specifically for each indi-vidual business and their needs. Mod-ules offered: Men’s Hair Replacement, Women’s Hair Replacement, Women of Color Hair Replacement, Ultratress Extensions, Medical Hair Loss, Cut-ting and Styling, Sales – Consultations/Membership programs/Upgrades, Busi-ness Management. Most often, these trainings include portions of multiple modules – if you can imagine a training class created specifically for your unique needs – then we will deliver that with our in studio training program!

NEW FOR 2015!

The National Cut-Tour will be offered in 2015 as a Regional Academy (dates and locations to be announced) and as an in studio training class – exclusively for your staff. We want to attract mil-lennials but to do so; our stylists must have the skills to deliver the looks these young men and women demand! On Rite is excited to have partnered with Sam Villa (Education Artistic Director of Redken) who has committed Andrew Carruthers, one of his most talented trainers to provide education in cutting and styling the latest, updated styles and trends!

As you can see, there’s a training pro-gram perfect for every business’s needs! If your 2015 business goal is to increase your profitability, gain market share, reduce client and staff attrition, create excitement, motivation and teamwork within your company – then training should be on your short- list of things to do! Invest in your team and it will return to you tenfold.

“We are in our 17th year of partnering with On Rite and recently approached them to do an In Studio training for our entire staff focused on our needs and areas of improvement. On-Rite’s Business Development team spent the time to uncover our pain points and develop an individualized training that was laser focused on our needs. Their ability to listen to our team and to then develop a training package that was customized to fit us and our client’s needs was invaluable! The precise and in-depth train-ing is allowing us to gain market-share along with increasing our profitability. On-Rite’s training teams are professional, knowledge-able and talented. Our entire staff from the receptionist and stylists, to the managers and owners, received benefit from On Rite’s train-ing. We learned so much and enjoyed ourselves immensely and we are planning another on-site training with them!”

– Pamela CorridorOwner, Images International

Who are Good Candidates for Laser Hair Restoration Therapy?

Just about anyone experiencing hair loss can benefit from LLLT. In fact,

laser hair therapy offers hair restoration alternative to a much broader audience than other methods, including those who previously were ineligible for hair transplantation procedures or for whom medication is contraindication. For example, women who tend to experi-ence general thinning throughout the scalp area, including the sides and back areas from which a transplant special-ist would typically harvest the donor follicles, while not candidates for hair transplantation, can benefit from LLLT.

Best CandidatesThe best candidates for LLLT are in

the early stages of hair loss, typically with hair loss equivalent to Norwood 1-5 for men and Savin scale from 1-3 for women. The earlier one addresses the problem, the higher the chances that LLLT will yield positive results.

Since most androgenetic alopecia

patients lose between 80-100 hairs or more per day, LLLT provides a great advantage through its ability to quickly arrest hair loss. After a few treatments (depending on the dosage of the LLLT device), hair loss tends to lessen due to the fact is that LLLT prolongs the anagen phase of hair growth.

Laser Hair Therapy has been shown

to be especially effective when used conjointly with a multi-therapeutic regimen that incorporates supple-ments, hair-loss shampoos and medica-tions, as appropriate. Hair loss rarely occurs without inflammation and is also associated with fungus. Address-ing inflammation is crucial in select-ing the right regimen for a successful LLLT program. Anti-inflammatory medicated shampoos can complement LLLT’s ability to reduce inflammation. Neutralizing inflammation and fungus

loads, common to androgenetic alopecia patients, with complimentary anti-fun-gal shampoos will benefit the patient. Both anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal hair and scalp products should be an integral part of any treatment regimen.

For pre-surgical patients, LLLT pre-pares the cells to better tolerate surgery because treatment has stimulated mito-chondrial activity to promote better cell health and, therefore, better tolerance of an invasive procedure. Post surgery, LLLT reduces inflammation caused by the procedure, enabling a reduction in shock that can lead to temporary hair loss, an accelerated healing process and the retention of more transplanted hairs.

Poor or Ineligible CandidatesLLLT has demonstrated efficacy in

male pattern baldness, with the excep-tion of patients with slick bald scalps. A shiny scalp with minimal or no hair follicles is indicative of a patient who is not a good candidate for LLLT. A shiny scalp is the final result of ongoing inflammation, an increased production of epidermal growth factor (EGF), and a narrowing of pores in which hair needs to grow. In this stage of baldness, ter-minal hair is eliminated and replaced by very fine vellus hairs. Medications, like LLLT, rarely have any effect on slick bald patients. It should be noted that women rarely advance to the slick bald state seen in many men.

Patients with scalp cancer and preg-

nant women are the only two contrain-dications for LLLT although the primary reason for these contraindications stems from the fact that few clinical trials have been conducted within these patient populations. Companies, view-ing the cost/reward ratio as much too low, have not taken the time for such trials. Recently, however, Theralase, a

Canadian company, demonstrated that LLLT is beneficial for treating hair loss in cancer patients and received clear-ance from the FDA and Health Canada on their therapeutic laser technology. This news is quite encouraging.

LLLT ConsiderationsWhile LLLT can decrease hair loss in a

relatively short period of time, thicken-ing and re-growing hair requires a much longer process. Ongoing LLLT treat-ments and adherence to therapeutic schedules are critical to reversing the process of follicular miniaturization, a condition that takes several years to develop.

One should be very careful in using

laser devices that generate excessive heat (more than 40 degrees on the scalp). FDA clearance is one’s best safeguard against potentially damaging heat and other safety concerns. Well-engineered LLLT wearable devices do not produce excessive thermal energy that could cause additional scalp condi-tions such as telogen effluvium as well as thermal injuries to patients or to operators. Heat is not the mechanism of action under which LLLT is based on; it is solely based on photo-bio stimulation.

Laser hair therapy meets all interna-

tional safety standards and legislative specifications of a “non-significant risk” product. LLLT is safe and is usually clas-sified as a Class 2 FDA device.

No one really wakes up one morning

with a complete loss of hair. The process is very gradual and starts as early as puberty. LLLT is most effective when treatment is initiated in the early stages of hair loss with the correct dosage and patient adherence to treatment sched-ules.

by Tamim Hamid, Founder, Theradome



800-778-4247CALL TOLL-FREE

Headquarters USA

USA OFFICE: 4775 Allen Road Zephyrhills FL 33541

Intl : +1.813.788.7468 IRE : +353.(0)1.442.8808 UK : +44(0)20.3286.0094 GER : +49(0)30.2089.6831

Email: [email protected]

www.prohairlabs.com

Has Never Been So Easy

Your clients hair is an investment, so why should they have to settle for average aftercare products?

Professional Hair Labs Pro Series hair care line has been developed for everyday use to maintain and protect against the issues faced by every hair wearer. Pro Hair Labs Pro Series is sulfate free and will not lift the color from your client’s hair unit.

Miracle Glove is a specialty formulation developed for profes-sional technicians who find themselves coming into daily contact with harsh solvents or astringents.

Miracle Glove maintains the pH balance of your skin while ensuring protection from drying, itching and irritation.

-- Sulfate Free - Retains Hair Color - Protects Human & Synthetic Hair - Protects Against Harsh Astringents ------------------------------------------------------------------

TO REGISTER call 866.779.2880 or go to evolvinghair.com for more information

FT Lauderdale FL Jan 25-27Sacramento CA Feb 1-3Stamford CT Feb 15-17Orlando FL Feb 22- 24San Diego CA Mar 1-3 Jacksonville FL Mar 22-24Tallahassee FL May 17-19

Become an Evolve Certified Stylist

Tap into a brand new client base

that brings you a monthly

maintenance visit

Upcoming certification classes*:

EXCLUSIVE OFFER for American Hair Loss Council members only:

*Subject to change

Intense 3-day training class. (Hands-on installation techniques, advanced haircutting, and communication/business skills.)

Tricks of the Trade How to track your client’s progress with great before-and-after photos.

Photography has become an impor-tant tool in managing patients with

hair loss. The ability to photographically document a patient’s condition and monitor change is especially useful in recording the subtle changes typically associated with hair loss and restoration for both clinical and marketing pur-poses. Patients often cannot accurately assess their progress. Because they see their hair daily, subtle changes are very difficult to identify. The eye and brain tend to automatically integrate changes to the body; it usually takes an indepen-dent observer and photographic evi-dence as reference in order for patients to fully understand these changes.

Photos of the scalp are relevant because they represent an accurate record of the patient’s cosmetic condi-tion. Capturing great before and after photos requires great care to capture precise documentation of the change, or lack of change, in scalp coverage.

Several parameters factor into a

consistent record throughout the documentation process, including the patient’s hair and a number of ambient conditions.

Condition of the Hair

Clean, dry hair prepared in precisely the same manner is an important requirement. If possible, the patient should be advised to maintain the same hairstyle and hair color to further control potentially misleading variables. This is especially important in patients with curly hair, since small changes in hair length may have a dramatic effect on the perception of scalp coverage.

Ambient ConditionsOne should use the same background

such as a drape or felt paper on a wall. A flash should never be used and light-ing conditions should not vary, so a consistent location, away from windows, should be used for optimal effect. Cam-era angles should not vary. Ideally, a dedicated area (a location behind a door frequently serves as a convenient area) and a camera tripod will help maintain consistency across ambient conditions.

Consistent ViewsFor both men and women pattern

hair loss, a minimum of 2 or 3 global views are recommended: the vertex, top scalp, and frontal view.

For the vertex view, the hair should be combed out like the spokes of a wheel. For the top scalp view, the hair should be center parted. In the frontal and temporal views, the hair should be pulled back to expose the hairline.

Depending on the coarseness, length,

style of the hair and view, combing can be quite challenging and time consum-ing. This is especially true concerning the center part for the top scalp view. When photographing patients with alopecia areata, the use of hair clips can help expose the effected scalp.

The most valuable views for assessing

male pattern hair loss are the vertex and top scalp view. For female pattern hair loss, the top scalp view presents the most value. Additional side and back views may be useful when assess-ing other hair loss conditions.

One should always maximize the

amount of clinical information recorded on the image. The photographer should always use the highest magnification and pixel density possible, while still obtaining a global view.

For best results:• Maintain consistency in positioning, lighting

and camera angle for all photos• Absolutely do not use the camera’s flash• Avoid fluorescent lighting• Set the camera to autofocus• No selfies! Enlist the help of another as

camera person• Frontal view: Lean head forward and shoot

from the front• Rear view: Lean head backward and shoot

from the back• Check all photos for clarity and focus before

concluding the photo session• Hair should be styled in the same condition

for each photo session, clean and dried.

Setting-Up the Photo:1. Make sure you are in a well lit room.2. Always use the same lighting for every shot, whether

incandescent, uorescent, etc.3. Always position yourself in front of a white background

(or as simple background as you have)4. Always use the same background in every photo5. Try to wear the same attire for every shot for consistency

Taking the Photo:1. Hold the camera roughly 18 inches away from the head

(or close enough to capture the entire scalp and face).2. Angle the lens at a 45 degree angle from the scalp.3. Take the photo.

It is important to take before and after photos when tracking the progress of your Laser Helmet treatments. To help you achieve clear and consistent photos we have put together a few simple guidelines to follow below:

For before-and-after photo best results:

• Maintain consistency in positioning, lighting and camera angle for all photos

• Absolutely do not use the camera’s � ash

• Avoid � uorescent lighting

• Set the camera to autofocus

• No sel� es – enlist the help of another as camera person

• Recommended shots

- Frontal view – lean head forward and shoot from the front

- Rear view – lean head backward and shoot from the back

• Check all photos for clarity and focus before concluding the photo session

• Hair should be styled in the same condition for each photo session, clean and dried.

Taking Before & After Photos

Setting-Up the Photo (Fig. #1):

1/ Make sure you are in a well lit room.

2/ Always use the same lighting for every shot, whether

incandescent, � uorescent, etc.

3/ Always position yourself in front of a white background

(or as simple background as you have).

4/ Always use the same background in every photo.

5/ Try and wear the same attire for every shot, to maintain

consistency.

Taking the Photo (Fig #2):

6/ Hold the camera roughly 18” away from the head

(or close enough to capture the entire scalp and face).

7/ Angle the lens at a 45 degree angle from the scalp.

8/ Take the photo.

Set-Up

Taking the Photo

Fig. #1

Fig. #2

450

18”

Camera View

It is important to take before and after photos when tracking the progress of your Laser Helmet treatments. To help you achieve clear and consistent photos we have put together a few simple guidelines to follow below:

For before-and-after photo best results:

• Maintain consistency in positioning, lighting and camera angle for all photos

• Absolutely do not use the camera’s � ash

• Avoid � uorescent lighting

• Set the camera to autofocus

• No sel� es – enlist the help of another as camera person

• Recommended shots

- Frontal view – lean head forward and shoot from the front

- Rear view – lean head backward and shoot from the back

• Check all photos for clarity and focus before concluding the photo session

• Hair should be styled in the same condition for each photo session, clean and dried.

Taking Before & After Photos

Setting-Up the Photo (Fig. #1):

1/ Make sure you are in a well lit room.

2/ Always use the same lighting for every shot, whether

incandescent, � uorescent, etc.

3/ Always position yourself in front of a white background

(or as simple background as you have).

4/ Always use the same background in every photo.

5/ Try and wear the same attire for every shot, to maintain

consistency.

Taking the Photo (Fig #2):

6/ Hold the camera roughly 18” away from the head

(or close enough to capture the entire scalp and face).

7/ Angle the lens at a 45 degree angle from the scalp.

8/ Take the photo.

Set-Up

Taking the Photo

Fig. #1

Fig. #2

450

18”

Camera View

Special Thanks to Theradome for providing the content for this series.


the link, issue12

Documents

hair extraordinaire

american hair loss council

international hair goods

director of education

hair extension specialists

link issue

ceonational education

education award