The Link, Issue 22

The Voice of the AHLC

ON THE COVER

10 Knowing Your Purpose 20 Hair Now Annual Conference Review 31 Robbery at La Jolla Hair Clinic

FEATURES

5 7 9 13 16 22 23 24 27 28

Two Doors to Hair Replacement Success A Love of Hair Re-Invent Yourself How Long Will This Wig Last (M Leigh) To Tell or Not to Tell?

I Took My Staff to the Conference Conference Attendee Survey Results AHLC Members Only FaceBook Group Two Words to Better Understanding Advice for Client’s Considering Hair Restoration Surgery

IN EVERY ISSUE

32 AHLC Academy: Member Sponsored Education 34 New Members

Subscription Information:

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.

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

Issue 22, Summer 2017

3

The Voice of the AHLC

CONGRATULATIONS to our Newest Masters Certified Members

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 615.721.8085 or info@ahlc.org

The Link Staff:

Editor: Janine Thornhill Design and Layout: Thornhill Creative Creative Director: Terrell Thornhill

Thanks to Our Contributors: Nancy V Brown, NV My Hair, Boston & Atlanta

Rebecca Sanford-Bowling, Becca’s 3700 Hair Studio, Inc., Kettering, OH

Ken Anderson, MD, FISHRS, Founder and Chief of Surgery, Anderson Center for Hair, Atlanta, GA Kelly Bartlett, Co-Owner, The Hair Specialists, Hudson, OH

Maria Frederick, Owner, Dream Wigs Boutique and New Generation Hair Replacement, Fishkill, NY Shlomo Klein, VP, OSY Inc, Georgie Wigs Joanie Kumiega, Owner, A Natural Image Hair Studio, Inc., Williamsville, NY Michael Leigh, President, Joli Caméléon™ Cassey Lundell, Lunatic Fringe Salon, Salt Lake City, UT Danielle Peterson & Anna Amano, for La Jolla Hair Clinic, San Diego, CA Leslie Robinson, Patient Coordinator/CEO, Mane Image, Merrillville, IN Nicole Staples, Owner, Madeline’s Hair Replacement, Saco, ME James Todd, Vice President, Dimples

AHLC Board of Directors Peggy Thornhill, President Joseph Ellis, Vice President Susan Kettering, Executive Director The prestigious American Hair Loss Council’s Masters Certification is a program whereby members accrue credit for educational experience, professional work experience and American Hair Loss Council activities. This certification was created to publicly and officially recognize the efforts of individuals who are highly competent and respected, knowledgeable professionals and authorities in their field.

Applicants must be a member of the American Hair Loss Council for a minimum of two consecutive years before applying to the program. Each AHLC Master’s Certification is valid for five years and is renewable. Call 615.721.8085 to learn more.

4 Issue 22, Summer 2017

Betty Ann Bugden, Treasurer/Membership Director Marsha Scott, Past President 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 prohibited. Published for the AHLC by Thornhill Creative. www.thornhillcreative.com

Two Doors

The Voice of the AHLC

TO HAIR REPLACEMENT SUCCESS

M

Maria Frederick, Dream Wigs Boutique and New Generation Hair Replacement, Fishkill, NY

have heard of the famous book Men Are from Mars, Women are from Venus. We all know the sexes don’t see eye-to-eye on many topics. Their preferences of the hair replacement studio experience any of you

The front door, just for women differ too. Over twenty-five years ago I opened my first men’s hair replacement studio. At the time, I didn’t consider servicing female clients. Male clients were satisfied receiving their services in a private, office environment far away from the bright lights of Main Street and clear of nosey neighbors gazing into downtown storefronts, which was fine by me. However, over the last couple decades more and more women have been finding their way into my shop, looking for hair replacement solutions, too.

Many of these women were looking for the same quality and service my male clients sought, and they weren’t finding it in the downtown wig shops.

In fact, I was told time and time again by women, enthusiastic to sit in my chair, that buying a wig in a shop was usually no different from buying a wig online, and neither result was good.

Typically their experiences resulted in the purchase of a wig that looked very different on the store mannequin than it did on their head, and for good reason. Because without an experienced,

certified, hair-replacement specialist leading them in the right direction, and customizing the wig to work best on their head, they were no better off than blindly ordering a wig online.

The more I talked to women I realized there was a need for a wig shop where they could purchase products with the assistance of expert staff, and receive skilled advice and styling, just like the men had been receiving for years. However, unlike their male counterparts, women also wanted to walk the aisles to see and feel all the products available for sale.

Something men have no interest in and usually avoid like the plague. So therein lay the conundrum. Was it possible to construct a store where women could roam about and explore products for sale, and men could have their systems serviced in complete anonymity? And, was it possible for both sexes to receive personalized, private, one-on-one attention from knowledgeable staff and make confident purchases they would be comfortable with for years to come?

As I began to doubt whether the sexes could coexist under one, hairreplacement roof. My female clientele longed for rows of mannequin heads, and my male clients wanted to go back to the way things were. Frustrated I couldn’t get both businesses operating efficiently under one roof, I contemplated forgoing one for the other and that’s when I found it.

Today, my storefront is situated in a busy, highly visible shopping center, just what my female clients wanted.

The inside is spacious with hundreds of mannequins on display. I named the store Dream Wigs Boutique, with eye-catching signage out front. On

its surface the boutique looks like a typical women’s wig shop, but it’s so much more. Because I didn’t forget about my male clients. In the rear of the building is a very private, hardly noticeable, battleship gray, back door, bearing a solitary sign that reads, New Generation Hair Replacement. This inconspicuous sign marks the entrance to a well-equipped salon where male clients have their systems serviced in complete privacy and segregated from the boutique. There is a separate parking area for the men in the rear far away from the hustle and bustle of the shopping center. Half of the day we service men and women by appointment only. The rest of the day, the store is open to the public, affording both sexes the comfort they deserve.

Both Dream Wigs Boutique and New Generation Hair Replacement are supported by separate websites, telephone numThe back door, bers and marketJust for men ing, insuring the autonomy of each, but allowing for their combined operation under one roof.

In the end, our hair replacement studio was built on common ground.

We knew men and women relished individualized care and both wanted to be serviced by certified technicians who possessed years of experience and the ability to make them look and feel good. Even though servicing men and women can be tricky business in the hair replacement industry. Under the right circumstances it might be exactly what you and your customers are looking for. Please reach out to me with your questions or comments.

Issue 22, Summer 2017

5

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The Voice of the AHLC

A Love of Hair Sharing stories of starting out Cassey Lundell, Lunatic Fringe Salon, Salt Lake City Were you at the AHLC conference in Orlando? If so, you saw some of the exciting things that the American Hair Loss Council brought to our attention at this event! Classic techniques and new techniques were shared. Many questions were asked and answered. It was a unique learning experience, and it fuelled my drive to continue on a brand new path.

You see, I am a baby in this industry.

In fact, I don’t even have a shop yet, let alone the perfect name for our shop.

I am a hairdresser and have been a stylist at Lunatic Fringe Salon in Salt Lake City, Utah for 10 years. I started as their receptionist in 2004 and within a year I realized I needed to dive deeper into the industry. I wanted to get my hands dirty, literally transitioning into hairdressing was the easiest decision of my life. The creativity, the art form, and the ability to have the most unique relationships with people that I might not otherwise ever have the chance to know. I love my job, and I love helping my guests fulfil their hair dreams.

Just a short two years later, and look how far we’ve come: Hannah and Andrew (pictured on the following page) are in their early 30s and have been married for 12 years.

They have a very active life, a darling family, and a unique and exciting way of making a living. They started an online clothing company called Slyfox Threads, slyfoxthreads.com. Hannah, a graphic designer by trade, started out designing baby bibs. Everyone loved them and it snowballed into hats, and clothing, and Mom Life and Dad Life apparel as well. More recently they added to their business by starting a family vlog (video-blog). Their YouTube channel is called The Slyfox Family and

their episodes are all about fun clean, family friendly adventures. Basically, they are on a never ending real life TV series, and while they are humble and true to themselves, they like to put their best foot forward whenever possible, like any of us.

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves though because my journey into hair loss solutions started with another friend. I’ll get back to the SlyFox Family in a second. Lets talk about Clint!

Pictured below is my friend Clint. He is my age, lets just say mid 30’s. continued...

Cassey’s client, Clint: Before

As many of you have likely experienced, I’ve had a number of guests ask me about hair loss solutions. Other than steering them towards a shampoo that’s supposed to help with hair loss, I hadn’t been equipped to help them. This was the case a couple of years ago with Andrew, the husband of my guest Hannah. Andrew’s hair was beginning to thin, and he was still so young. At the time, I didn’t have a solution for him, or anyone I could refer him to. I cut his hair a few times until he decided to buzz it off. I was heart broken because I didn’t have a way to help.

Issue 22, Summer 2017

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The Voice of the AHLC continued...

Clint reached out to me in December 2016 asking if I knew of any hair loss solutions that were better than what he’d already tried. He’d been researching men’s non surgical hair replacement on YouTube and asked if I knew anyone who did it. The videos he sent me were intriguing and I was very interested and was motivated to help him find a solution. After a bit of research, I found a local shop that did mostly women’s wigs, but also offered men’s hair replacement. I went to two consultations with him. When he was finally ready to take the plunge, I was there too.

The extra level of confidence a full head of hair gave him was such a beautiful thing to witness. I knew this was going to be the beginning of a new journey.

I did more research and Clint became my guinea pig. I ordered him new hair (he wasn’t happy with the poly front on his previous system), and I did his hair. As soon as I felt confident in my basic knowledge of the process, I planned to reach out to my bosses, the owners of Lunatic Fringe Salon, a dynamic husband and wife team Angie Katsenavas and Shawn Trujillo, to find out if they’d be interested in

Cassey’s client, Clint: After helping me pursue this new side of the industry. The crazy part is, Shawn contacted me first. My twin sister (who is my mentor and whom I work with at Lunatic Fringe) mentioned to Shawn that I’d been researching non-surgical hair replacement. He was so excited he immediately reached out to me. Long story short, we have a goal to open up a shop separate from Lunatic Fringe where we can help our friends and neighbors with multi-therapeutic hair loss solutions.

The Slyfox Family Hannah & Andrew: Before

Andrew: After

Back to the Slyfox Family...

After practicing with Clint and learning as much as possible, I felt I had a knack for men’s hair replacement. I think the aptitude I have for hairdressing has naturally allowed me to feel comfortable and confident to start doing hair replacement. Now that I was ready, I knew immediately who I wanted to reach out to, Andrew!

I contacted his wife, Hannah and she

8 Issue 22, Summer 2017

added Andrew into a group text and before I knew it, they were overnighting me a sample of Andrew’s hair so I could match the color and order a pre-stock system. They flew out to Salt Lake City from their home in southern California on a whirlwind trip, and I was able to help Andrew have a full head of hair within hours of their arrival. It felt like magic and I’m still riding that high.

What an exciting thing to be able to help someone feel and look their best on a completely new level than I’ve ever been able to do with hairdressing

before. Andrew will be back soon for a follow-up, and I’ll be flying out to visit them to help him and another one of his close friends with their hair goals.

This is only the beginning, and it’s thrilling. I truly hope I can give my new guests that same sense of excitement when we help find them the right solution for their hair loss. The past 10 years in the hair industry have been incredible. I can only imagine what the next 10 will be like, and I have to tell you, it’s pretty darn exciting!

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If You’re Not the Hot, Chic Salon in Your Neighborhood, What Do You Do? Shlomo Klein, VP, OSY Inc., Georgie Wigs, Xtensify

M

y customer,

Sara, cried to me the other day. Her 25 year old daughter opened a competing wig salon nearby and now all of her customers were going there instead. In fact, one of Sara’s long time clients saw her at a mutual acquaintances wedding and said to Sara, “What do you think of my new wig? Your daughter did it. I love it!” Sara’s client meant well when she said this, thinking that Sara would be pleased that her daughter was a success. In fact, Sara was upset that her long-time client left her!

What about you? Have your clients left you? Have they gone down the street to the hot new salon, the cheaper salon or for the hairdresser

RE-INVENT YOURSELF!

that now comes to their house? Did they find a Groupon for a half-priced service? What will you do?

You are not alone. Every salon that I visit has encountered the same issues.

Where at one time your appointment book was booked solid, maybe now you are taking an extra day off since you haven’t been as busy? Has Amazon has eaten into your retail sales?

You need to re-invent yourself!

No business in today’s world can rest on their past success. Do you think UPS and FedEx are safe? What happens when Amazon’s fleet of private delivery service vans and drones start taking away all of that business?

Macy’s? Victoria Secret? Gap? Retail clothing stores? Look at how H&M, Zara, and other “Fast Fashion” brands have upended the market!

Look a good look at your business and see what’s working. Then, figure out how to apply that on a larger scale.

Ask you customers what the want and listen to them. Maybe you aren’t providing a service that they are looking for currently, but now you need to. We no longer live in a “top down” consumer market. You don’t make the choices for what your customers want, they make it for you. Night hours? Blow dry bar at your local gym? House calls?

Forget your pride. Do what you need to do to become relevant again.

Issue 22, Summer 2017

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The Voice of the AHLC

KNOWING YOUR Joanie Kumiega, A Natural Image Hair Studio, Inc., Williamsville, NY

I

recently had an experience at my hair studio, after almost thirty years in this industry, that was incredibly special.

A young woman came in for a consultation and told her hair loss story with such vulnerability and honesty that I felt it was important to share. I also feel blessed to be a part of it.

Clarisse’s story connects with mine in a way that invigorates my work. She reminds me of the importance of not only physical health, but emotional as well. We know there are many possible causes for hair loss: Genetics, thyroid, cancer, autoimmune disease and other conditions. While in search for a physical cure, women and men hide in plain sight, ashamed to talk openly to friends and family about their hair loss. Hair loss becomes a private, separate experience - many people sink into low self-esteem, anxiety and depression.

My partner Paula and I strive to provide emotional stability. We truly hope to spark a change in mind-set, to provide the hope & courage to embrace the ‘WHAT IF’ in life - that living is not so much determined by what life brings to us as by the attitude we bring to life.

I’ve always known that I’m doing something important, maybe I didn’t realize just how important. I love my job. I love who I do it with and who I do it for. I am so grateful to God for placing me where I am. But, when you’ve been doing the same job for 30 years, sometimes you get into a routine and lose sight of the “person”. learning the stories of the men and women I help invigorates me. It helps them to feel important and reminds me of my mission and redefines my purpose.

10 Issue 22, Summer 2017

The Voice of the AHLC some answers. This woman pulled me away from the edge I teetered on and she gave me answers. She gave me options!

OPTIONS: A BEAUTIFUL WORD! Option 1: Toppers These are basically like mini-wigs that are used to cover up patchy or thinning hair- i thought they were very similar to extensions.

Joanie was kind enough to let me try on a human-hair topper. You’d never know i was missing patches of hair and the topper itself was so realistic. It was completely undetectable. This option is my #1 because it felt nice and cozy on my head, and it made me feel pretty. It also was very affordable.

Option 2: Wigs The idea of wigs originally freaked me out, but these did not look like any wig I’d ever seen. Most of them were created from real human hair and they looked so real. Joanie suggested I try the wigs and look at the inside caps. She calmed my nerves and should I lose all of my hair, i won’t be so afraid to try a few on and have some fun, especially with Joanie and Ferrari by my side.

Clarisse, delighted with all her new hair options

CLARISSE’S STORY FROM HER BLOG, COURAGEOUSLYCLARISSE.COM I have alopecia. I was referred to Joanie by a friend. Joanie is a stylist at a salon in Buffalo, NY that specializes in hair replacement solutions. After jumping from doctor to doctor and receiving no answers, I walked into her salon feeling doubtful and hopeless.

The negative feelings soon dissipated though when I walked through the door. I was greeted by a tiny Yorkie who waddled up to me and pawed at my foot. I kneeled down to pet the dog and took notice of my surroundings: the pink dog tag with “Ferrari”, the Buffalo 716 area code pillows, the jars of cookies, the Keurig with the plethora of k-cups and then, the wigs.

WHOAH... THE WIGS! Needless to say, I was a little more than wigged-out (pun totally intended) right before I reeled into full-blown

panic, a beautiful blond-haired, blue eyed woman walked into the room and swept me up into a hug and introduced herself as Joanie.

Joanie’s salon was comforting, it made me think of my older cousin’s home with the exception of the mannequin heads covered in wigs. She explained how she wanted her customers to feel at home, despite what they may be experiencing. I followed Joanie & Ferrari into a private room where we all sat together, the Yorkie in my lap, surrounded by mannequin heads & wigs and we shared our stories.

Joanie sat patiently as I stumbled through my recollection of the past three months. She gifted me with words of comfort and support while I cried tears onto Ferrari who snuggled against the crook of my arm and, by some miracle, Joanie gave me

Option 3: Non-surgical hair replacement This procedure was a bit complicated. Joanie described it as a thin membrane put on the scalp which acts as a second layer of skin. This membrane is implanted with human hair, customized to create a match with the patient’s hair. Pretty wild stuff.

After talking with Joanie, learning her story and hearing my options, I breathed the first sigh of relief I’ve had in three months. I could literally hear three words ringing in my mind, “you’re not alone.” She reminded me that beauty truly comes from the inside.

She took loving care of my mind and my self-esteem. She provided support and options. She built a safety net for me. She listened.

Joanie’s pure resiliency and her passion is a gift that she attributes to her faith- her work is not just a job, it is her vocation, her mission is to help people with their self image.

Issue 22, Summer 2017

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The Voice of the AHLC

The Inevitable Question:

PART ONE

OF A 2-PART SERIES

Who Is Responsible for The Life of a Fine, Human Hair Wig?

Michael Leigh, Joli Caméléon™

How Long Will This Wig Last?

What is Your Warranty?

Why Are These Such Difficult Questions?

The inevitable questions take many forms, but always, the client’s expectation is that there is a finite answer; “This wig will last X-length of time (one or a number of years being the usual expectation) and the warranty is for Y-months.” It would be so elegant to provide this answer. So, why can’t we?

In this case “we” being collectively us: the manufacturer, and you, the professional hair studio reseller Many resellers and online sites do actually stipulate a warranty time period, but - even in those cases - the caveats immediately make the warranty as vague as if it was not written.

By way of example, let’s look at a parallel between two of the leading online-only resellers and you, the professional (bricks & mortar) professional hair studio. In almost every other industry, when looking at a physical retailer to online-only comparison, the online player usually offers the most liberal and comprehensive return policies. They build the frequency and cost of returns into their business model. They can afford to because they don’t have the physical location and considerable overhead that you have. And that is one of the ways they compensate for not being able to offer your type of hands-on personal service.

And yet, even in the online world, our industry is different. As examples, I chose two of the long-established online-only retailers:

HAIR-WEARING

CLIENT

INTERNET-INFORMED ONLINE REVIEWING

PROFESSIONAL

THIS WIG .

IS TANGLING IT ’S YOUR FAULT.

HAIR STUDIO

HAIR SYSTEM

MANUFACTURER ONLINE-ONLY RETAILER WARRANTY EXAMPLE 1: ”Your satisfaction is our goal.

We will gladly accept returns on all eligible products (Altered Packaging or Product, Worn, or Damaged items are not eligible for return).”

ONLINE-ONLY RETAILER WARRANTY EXAMPLE 2: ”We stand behind our workmanship & materials. However, ensuring you get the most life out of your wig or hairpiece is a shared responsibility. There are many ways to damage a high quality, fine hair wig. Examples include damage with hot hare care tools, harsh chemicals, bad haircuts, salon treatments, coloring, perming, build-up of oil and dirt residue, and many other serious risks.

We believe educating our hair wearers and professional salon teams in optimum hair care & correct maintenance is the best long-term solution.”

Notice that the warranty terms of these online suppliers, and most others, is the antithesis of other industries. The message is clear: if you wear it, it’s yours. Ours is an industry where you, the bricks and mortar retailer, actually has a serious advantage over online-only resellers.

This advantage should far outweigh any potential price difference, if you can communicate it clearly to your clients. Why? Because there is perhaps no other industry that is exposed to so much potential for product mistreatment, unintended damage, abuse, change of mind and dishonesty, than that of the human hair wig. This is especially true of more expensive premium European fine hair products. It is so important for a hair-wearer to have direct local access to their sympathetic expert supplier.

Issue 22, Summer 2017

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The Voice of the AHLC

The Challenge with Premium Fine Hair Wigs: This Wig was Expensive.

It Should Last a Very Long Time.

To the inexperienced and first time wig wearer the higher the price of the product surely means it will last longer.

Right? Wrong! But, it is understandable that they would think that way without education. The problem for a manufacturer like us is that sometimes a less experienced wig reseller, perhaps a wig shop that is still learning how to become a specialized “Hair Replacement Center” thinks the same way.

And that leads to bigger problems because they do not educate their own hair-wearing clients appropriately.

Factually, a cheaper wig will very possibly last longer than a more expensive one. Cheaper Indian and Chinese hair, have thicker hair shafts - in diameter they are of a coarser denier by 2 to 4 times. Cheaper lace and thread are thicker (and rougher) than French and Swiss lace. Machine-back wigs are usually thicker and stronger than fine, all handtied ones. Even with the superior quality hair and workmanship, fine wigs using thinner materials need to be carefully handled and maintained.

What premium wigs like our ultralightweight, all handtied, lace-front, French top Joli Dancer™ or Joli Couture™ hair creations offer for their price premium, is a high-quality piece of art that delivers the perfectly intended illusion: beautifully natural hair that moves and looks like hair growing from the wearer’s own scalp. BUT, they are not “bullet-proof” and they are susceptible to damage from abuse, uneducated maintenance and neglect.

Manufacturer’s Responsibility.

Every manufacturer sets their own policies. Joli Caméléon specifies high quality materials and sources the finest quality hair. We stand behind our workmanship and materials, and we try to be responsive and supportive in any adverse Client situation. However, we cannot be responsible for damage that may be caused by damage from the use of bleaches, color applications, perms, improper maintenance, use of unsuitable haircare products, or normal

14 Issue 22, Summer 2017

wear and tear. Over time, hair may fall out or break; base materials may stretch; and other damage may occur.

Most times, repairs can be made for a charge. Proper care will extend the life of a Joli Caméléon hair product, but will not negate the necessity of repair over time.

Frequent causes of wearer-caused damage, to be avoided: • Letting oil-based products and conditioners penetrate handtied knots, or sewn wefts, resulting in the knots unravelling.

• Residue build-up in the hair from improper maintenance resulting in hair drying out, hair loss and breakage.

• Unsuitable, commercially available hair care products, NOT designed for fine, human hair wigs.

Joli Caméléon recommends using premium haircare products without sulphates, parabens, or other damaging ingredients. An extract of our Terms & Conditions includes: “We do not accept responsibility for hair goods cut, colored, permed, or otherwise modified, by anyone other than our own Joli Caméléon master hairdressers”.

If there is reason to think that one of our hair creations is in any way defective, you need to notify Joli Caméléon prior to any alteration. Every Joli Caméléon hair creation is shipped with a hair care guide for the hair-wearer, but it is you, the direct supplier to that hair-wearer, that is in the front line. You are obliged to take primary responsibility for not only educating the hair wearer, but also making a judgment call as what is the most suitable wig or hairpiece for them, including will they be able to maintain it, and how. This is especially true with children, and their parents.

Reseller Responsibility: Answering the Questions BEFORE They Get Asked.

I am proud of our Hair Replacement Industry and what it stands for. I have the privilege of knowing some of the best hair replacement practitioners in

the world. Some of them have been practicing their craft and bringing excellence to it for 30, 40 and 50 years!

For instance, I have personally witnessed Dawn Harrison and her Team not just showing a client how to shampoo their hair, but then watching and teaching them while they do it themselves, before they leave her studio.

Dawn has personally taught hundreds of other professionals, over the span of several decades, how to adopt these best practices in their own studio. Pat Wrixon is another shining light in the industry. She still has the same passion for what she does and calls every client personally within 2 weeks of their purchase to make sure they are happy.

And, if they are not, she has them come in to see her. Pat understands the reality of today’s online empowered consumer and the risks to her reputation of a disenfranchised client. She will go out of her way to make a situation right, even when the Client is the likely cause of any problem. Twila Donley and her expert team, have been doing this for an unbelievable 50+ years. They will customize a hairpiece to a client’s own specifications until they are happy. So many of you continue to “raise the bar”.

It is impossible to name all of you who should be recognized for your industrybest practices. But, sadly, it is not a universal competence and - as new practitioners enter the industry - there is still much room for industry-wide standard best practices.

PART TWO

In the next Issue of The Link: • Customer Education by Example.

• Hair-wearer Experience & Education Profile.

• Children and Their parents – a Special Case.

• The Purchase – Terms & Conditions of Sale and the “Warranty”.

• After Sale Support as a Philosophy: The Follow-up call / visit.

• What Can Go Wrong: Everything – the Online Empowered Client Rules.

• The Complaint – First Reaction.

• Who is at Fault: Accusations, Expectations & Reality.

• An Ocean of Unsuitable Products.

• Final Analysis: Who is Responsible for the Life of a Fine Human Hair Wig?

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The Voice of the AHLC

To tell or not to tell?

by Nicole Staples, Owner, Madeline’s Hair Replacement, Saco, ME

I

get this question a lot, especially by my alopecia clients. Oftentimes many clients wonder if they should tell people about their hair system, or keep it a secret. It’s always been a hard question for me to answer as I feel it is such a personal decision.

I do however find that I often use my personal experience of living with alopecia, and my ten plus years of struggling with that exact question myself, to give them insight. I always start by saying, “Our hair systems are designed to duplicate your hair so closely that whether you decide to tell people or not, is completely up to you, as no one would know otherwise. I understand though that sometimes it feels like keeping that secret is hard too.”

At Madeline’s, my hair replacement studio, I am “an open book” about anything and everything involving my hair loss. Throughout the day it would not be uncommon to find me whipping off my hair to show someone my hair system or to demonstrate scarf tying. I also oftentimes will take off my eyelashes and do an eyelash attachment demonstration for clients. In those moments there is absolutely no hesitation on my part and it never makes me feel self-conscious. I have always felt free to be myself with or without hair and help someone in that environment. But in my personal life with friends, I had always found it much more challenging to talk about and even more challenging to take my hair off or wear different styles.

I have many people that I follow on Facebook who have alopecia. Some of those friends are super open about their alopecia and often post pictures of themselves with and without their hair systems on. They are comfortable in their skin and truly see hair as an accessory that can be changed whenever they feel like it. I see my hair as a necessity. I always admired their strength and beauty, but for me it was such a hard thing to be so open about socially. Many times, in these fellow alopecian’s posts, they would have a message and were looking to spread alopecia awareness. I totally loved the idea of spreading awareness because I know that when I lost my hair to alopecia, I had NEVER heard of it before. I remember thinking, “Alo-what?!” and feeling like the only person in the world who had it. So while spreading awareness definitely appealed to

16 Issue 22, Summer 2017

me, it didn’t get me out of my comfort shell. So I wore the same style hair (which I love) every day and socially didn’t talk about my alopecia much. Then something changed that.

One hot August morning, I was busy running around doing all the last minute decorating and cupcake frosting for

The Voice of the AHLC

That is the question. it on the canvas head and stand I had placed out of the way in our foyer. As I was about half way done the frosting project I heard my husband make plans for our friend to come over to help him set up a bounce house water slide we had gotten for the party. I heard him confirm, “Oh ok that’s no problem, take your time, I’ll see you in 45 minutes to an hour.” I set a timer for 30 minutes, in case I wasn’t done with the cupcakes, to remind myself in plenty of time to put my hair back on before he came over. I went back to finish up the frosting, thinking I had plenty of time. Much to my dismay, 15 minutes later, I heard a knock on our front door. As I panicked to get to my hair, I said, “Just a minute!” and raced to the foyer for my hair. I was horrified to find he had let himself in. There I stood, hairless reaching for my hair. He immediately blurted out, “I’m sorry!” I laughed it off and said, “Come on in, I don’t care if you don’t.”

As those words came out of my mouth, I found myself actually feeling that way. I thought I would feel absolutely sick about him seeing me without my hair. Up until that moment only close family members and clients had ever seen me without hair. I felt completely different from what I had imagined feeling. In every nightmare I had about a scenario like this happening, I thought it would be a horrible experience. It was just the opposite! It was a completely freeing experience. It felt like the secret was out and it felt good! It was completely unexpected and really helped me grow in my comfort level.

my son’s birthday. We had a large crowd coming over to celebrate and I still had a good amount of things to do before everyone arrived. I had washed and blown out my hair the night before so it was all set to go (there are definitely perks to the whole alopecia thing). But as I started to frost the cup cakes and let my son help with a few, I envisioned frosting going in my hair. I quickly decided to take it off and store

I still don’t go without my hair in public, ever, but I am much more open to talking about it socially. I have even had my pictures taken without my hair and use the images on our Madeline’s website and brochure information. The most important change for me though has been enjoying wearing many different styles and colors. I now feel free to wear different styles, and if someone questions my new style, I simply explain I have alopecia. I can often be found wearing a short sleek bob hair system one day and a long curled hair system the next! It has been very freeing and fun to experiment with different looks! So I would say everyone’s experience with how open one should be regarding hair loss is completely a personal choice. Do what makes you feel comfortable and empowered!

Issue 22, Summer 2017

17

AHLC ANNUAL C

IN OUR ATTENDEES’ OW I found the conference to be very informative on every aspect of Hair restoration and Hair replacement. I feel more confident in offering these services. Thank you for the opportunity to become a member and I look forward to networking with others. Blessing to the staff of AHLC. – Karen Springer Lindsey Reinke: IHI Demonstration

The staff at AHLC does an amazing job...

Overall it was a great time and we walked away with a lot of new knowledge, made connections with new people and we will be offering new products because of the conference.

Hair Replacement 101: Betty Bugden: How to Make a Mold

Our organization, The America Hair Loss Council, brings together people from all areas in/of the hair loss field, with all different levels of knowledge and expertise who are willing to share their experience and passion.

I so look forward to connecting with them each year.

– Carmen Rincones Bobbi Russell: Revive Demonstration

The conference provides much education and is well given, so much I as a entry lever was able to walk away with information and not feel overwhelmed!

– Nikki Bell Hair Replacement 101: Peggy Thornhill: Wig Alterations

20 Issue 22, Summer 2017

CONFERENCE REVIEW

The Voice of the AHLC

WN WORDS

It was refreshing and exciting to see vendors I have not had the privilege to work with before. The educators were all very knowledgeable and it brought new excitement to the hair loss industry. I look forward to having a professional relationship with many of the vendors that were at the conference.

– Karen Houshultz Hair Replacement 101: Joseph Ellis, Women’s Bonding

I like something extra to learn on Saturday before we start. I liked the 101 class this year but I liked the (Saturday, Vendor-Sponsored) classes last year too. I like that being a change each year.

– Sara Lou Manning Hair Replacement 101: Standing Room Only

I would absolutely love to come every year! Definitely groundbreaking, not your average hair show or conference, but definitely a one-of-a-kind Hair Replacement event.

– Belinda Rodrigues Hair Replacement 101: Susan Kettering, How to Order Hair

Loved this year’s conference. I always learn so much, not only from the vendors but the other attendees as well.

– LaDonna Roye

Ricky Knowles: New Image Demonstration

It was my first conference with The AHLC, but it will not be my last!

– Christine Pusateri Issue 22, Summer 2017

21

CONFERENCE REVIEW

The Voice of the AHLC

I TOOK MY STAFF

You won’t believe what Happened.

Kelly Bartlett, Co-Owner, The Hair Specialists, Hudson, OH In the last issue of The Link, I wrote about the importance of investing in your staff. I had mentioned if you want to have a growing business and happy employees, providing education is one of the most important things you can do.

Knowledge and experience enhance our staff’s confidence levels and that gets passed along to our clients. It is our job to educate and take the utmost care of our clients and how can we do so without educating ourselves? Always remember happy employees create happy clients and happy clients create a growing salon.

was so excited about Peggy sewing a wig, during the Hair Restoration 101 class, that she asked to take additional training on wigs to learn how to customize them more. Another broadened her horizon on attachments and exactly how many different ways there are, and yet another realized just how interested in hair replacement she actually is. They are all anxiously awaiting all the additional training we signed up for at the show and every day they tell our clients how amazing the conference was to them and what new things they will be offering.

The AHLC conference far exceeded expectations!

There were more classes than we could attend and more information than our minds could absorb!

A prime example of our commitment towards education was my entire salon attending Hair Now 17, the AHLC Annual Conference. I have to admit, I was a little apprehensive about my staff attending with me.

This was a first experience for all of them attending this type of conference; one that was as professional and educational as this. Would they come home and be as excited as I was last time? Some of my staff aren’t as involved in hair replacement and restoration as me, would they see value in the classes?

The AHLC conference far exceeded expectations! There were more classes than we could attend and more information than our minds could absorb! And, I learned as much about my staff as I did in the classes.

Each of them, with their different personalities grabbed onto different aspects of the conference.

One of our staff has set her sights on working towards becoming a Trichologist! Another

22 Issue 22, Summer 2017

To any owner who is hesitant to take your staff to the AHLC conference, don’t be. The time of professional secrets is gone. If your staff wants to know what things cost they will find out. We are employing millennials and they live on the internet. They know more than you think and they appreciate honesty and feeling respected and included as part of a team.

One of the best benefits to educating your staff is that it frees you up to build your business. If you’re working towards growing your business, one of the fastest ways is by training and encouraging your staff to build and retain clients. Don’t hesitate because you think your people will get over educated, quit and become your competition. The opposite will happen. If you have happy employees they won’t quit and if they do quit and become your competition, nothing would have prevented it.

Great job AHLC! We can’t wait to see what you have planned next year for the 2018 Annual Conference in Nashville!

FROM THE COMMENTS: Conference attendees were asked to submit comments. We appreciate everyone taking the time to answer our survey.

There was a lot of positive feedback and some great suggestions to make next year even better. Below is a condensed listing of common themes GENERAL: • Hold a Panel Discussion • More Q&A Opportunities • Label Classes according to Education Level: New, Intermediate, Advanced, etc.

• More Show Deals • More Time to Shop EDUCATION: • More Business Classes • Less Selling/More Educating • More Demonstrations • Offer Certifications • More Hands-On Training • More Advanced Techniques • Help with Sales, Marketing & Management • Practical: “Stuff we can take home and immediately use.”

OTHER STUFF: • Everyone Likes a Buffet.

We totally agree.

• Everyone likes getting together as a group and talking shop.

• No more double-decker dining!

Agreed. (You have our word).

The Voice of the AHLC

CONFERENCE REVIEW

THE RESULTS ARE IN

Results from the Conference Attendee Survey indicate satisfaction in most areas and how we can make next year even better:

Issue 22, Summer 2017

23

The Voice of the AHLC

MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS

Your Name

Home

Help is now just a Click Away

Private Facebook Group for AHLC Members Leslie Robinson, Patient Coordinator/CEO, Mane Image I was fortunate enough to grow up in a home with parents who both were entrepreneurs. My father worked in the financial sector and my mother in the beauty industry. Each of them exposed me to different aspects of business that provided the building blocks for a business career. I tagged-along on business trips, educational seminars, open houses and business fairs at an early age. I learned helpful tips to becoming a strong independent businesswoman from both my parents.

Steve Harvey said, “When someone offers to help you, take it.” It amazes me when people in our industry don't ask for help. My recommendation to others is to let go of worrying about being judged by others, put yourself out there and ask for the help you need. Once you do you may be surprised at how willing people will share their secrets and what has worked for them. I have helped several of my female associates in the hair replacement industry and I continue to be helped by many in return. I am proud be an open book with the mistakes and successes in my business. It is not

24 Issue 22, Summer 2017

easy and many days I think, “Ugh why do I do this?” Well, I can tell you it is not for fame, health, or riches!

I have done this work for 30 years strictly driven by a passion to help people with hair loss to feel better about themselves. Having a group of peers offering advice and support is like having an experienced business partner in my back pocket.

Whenever I need advice, suggestions, a sounding board or even just a pick-me-up, these ladies help me through it.

This is why, with the help of Janine and Terrell Thornhill of the AHLC, we created a Members-Only Facebook group. Helping each other can raise our standards as a group across the country and throughout the world by encouraging excellent service, high standards of ethics in sales, and quality business to business relationships. Helping other business owners, whether new to the industry or experienced, can be invaluable.

So if your stuck or just seem to be treading water, change it up, and ask for help, even if you don't think you need it!

TO JOIN THE GROUP Simply log into your Facebook account and search for “AHLC Members Only.”

Select the group from your search results.

Click “Join Group.”

THE FACEBOOK GROUP RULES: MISSION STATEMENT: To provide a peer-topeer network for AHLC Members to exchange ideas and support regarding all things Hair Restoration.

GROUP MEMBERSHIP: Only current members of the AHLC are considered for group membership.

BE NICE: Please keep all discussions polite, friendly and on-topic.

NOT YOUR ADVERTISING MEDIA: No self-promoting or advertising business of any sort, please. Individual items and equipment for sale are allowed in moderation.

Product recommendations and discussions are perfectly fine.

WHERE’D MY POST GO? Any post may be deleted at the discretion of any admin.

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The Voice of the AHLC

Two Words W

to better understanding

James Todd, Hair Extraordinaire, Dimples USA

ith such educated hair replacement studio owners, technicians that can bring back hair from the dead, and colorists that are truly magicians—are we able to speak the same language as the consumer?

Practically everyone in the world know what extensions are. But, top pieces, toppers, etc; that’s a whole new language, and a whole new explanation that we need to break down, hold their hand, and explain.

our Dimples Education 1.0 in the U.S. and Europe. It has become so accepted now, at Dimples we no longer use the terms top piece and topper during education, in our catalogs, or on our website.

We learn such technical jargon in our fast lives in the hair replacement industry, such as the amazing classes at the AHLC Conference, that we don’t have time or even the patience to articulate full words. What a chore it is to say or even spell out “polyurethane”—let’s just get on with it, call it “PU”, and we expect the consumer to understand this too.

The term “Hair Extension” is already trusted, proven, understood, used by all of us for so many years. When the word “Extension” is used in the context

When I started dating my girlfriend and we finally got into the topic of work, I said, “I have a company that designs and sells top pieces (and wigs) in the highest quality natural hair for women.” She replied “Top pieces?”— with a very confused look on her face.

I started explaining what a top piece was, how the base is constructed. I drew an oval in the air to show the common 5” x 6.5” base size.

I mentioned the PU perimeter.

I talked about the hair length, and the different types of natural hair quality we offer.

While all this was happening, she began to look more and more confused, and closed off to all I was saying. Then, it came to me, this amazing new concept.

I just said, “Darling, forget everything I just told you, my company makes Top Extensions”. Right away her body language changed, the concept was familiar, she said, “Oh cool, hair extensions, that go on top.” I replied ecstatically, “Yes! That’s right.” And, at some point later I added, “…and wigs too.”

Then I went on about how amazing they are, how they add volume, cover unsightly roots, etc., and why not, it’s just an extension.

Have you ever felt that wall between yourself and your consumer when you’re trying to explain the perfect solution?

The look of confusion, the hesitation, the “let me think about it” answer that comes from their lack of trust? Their fear to enter unfamiliar waters, to have an open mind, to try something new? If only every consumer was open minded enough to really trust the hair solutions you offer from all your years of experience. Maybe, with the correct wording your consumer will hear you for the first time.

There is a solution, and it’s so simple, and so powerful, it breaks down walls, and it’s only two words.

The words that I now live by, the two words that break down wall of distrust with such ease, for that one section of our industry that is still so misunderstood by the general public. I’m talking about top-of-the-head pieces for women known as top pieces, toppers, toupees, hair systems or better yet, TOP EXTENSIONS!

Do your customers even understand what you’re saying?

of our industry, it is widely understood by the average consumer. Add the word “Top” in front of “Extension” then we have a new understanding; a solution that is so much easier to explain and sell, because it’s already trusted and recognized.

During the last six months I have tested this concept while conducting

We are on the dawn of a new era with Top Extensions. We have something that could explode across to general public. With Top Extensions we can now support any woman, at any age as well as those with hair loss.

Girls, women, ladies, fashionistas, meet the new extension that’s going to change your world: Top Extensions!

Issue 22, Summer 2017

27

The Voice of the AHLC

for your clients ADVICE considering

HAIR RESTORATION

SURGERY

Dr. Ken Anderson, MD, FISHRS, Founder and Chief of Surgery, Anderson Center for Hair, Atlanta

I

t’s bound to come

up. You’re going to have clients ask you about transplants.

There is a lot of misinformation on the internet, making it tough for clients to find the answer themselves. As hair replacements, be prepared to advise your clients. Here are some straight questions, and answers for hair restoration surgery candidates.

experienced hair loss similar to yours, and who have completed the restoration process. This is elective medicine, so there’s no rush. It’s best to be sure you have peace of mind and all your questions are answered.

How will I know who to trust to do my surgery?

Surgical Hair Restoration is what I call the “Wild West” of medicine because there’s very little oversight and there’s lots of ways to get it done. There are hundreds of nuances that can change the outcome of a surgical procedure, many of which aren’t even medical in nature! For this reason, you see plenty of examples of medical success that are aesthetic failures. My advice is make sure you have an actual surgeon doing the right procedure for your needs, in the right environment, with proven results you can see. Visit different practices and be bold when you ask what portions of surgery are completed by the surgeon and which activities are delegated to staff, and ask why. Be sure to discuss the different methods available for harvesting follicles with your surgeon. Depending on your needs and your current state of hair loss, either a linear procedure or a Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) procedure might be the right choice. Also, a reputable practice will be able to arrange for you to talk with former patients who have

28 Issue 22, Summer 2017

Dr. Anderson in a consultation

How will I know which procedure is right for me?

To determine the right type of procedure for you, you should be evaluated by a physician. In the vast majority of cases, when we hear hooves we look for horses, but it’s important to rule out the zebras. As long as you are cleared as a candidate for either type of procedure, here are some things to consider: In a linear strip procedure, a strip of scalp is removed surgically, and the wound that results from the removal is closed with stitches. This will leave a permanent scar on the back and possibly sides of your scalp. This can be

done on most any person with a good donor area. With a dedicated, experienced, and fully trained board-certified surgeon, you can expect minimal scarring in the donor area with a linear procedure. In the case of long hair you can wear a pony tail or pull your hair up without worry that the scar will show through.

An FUE procedure, or Follicular Unit Extraction, refers to a procedure where a device is used to remove a single follicle at a time for transplantation with no scalpels or stitches used.

While this may seem like the obvious choice, the singular advantage of an FUE procedure is the lack of a long scar. If using the FUE method, you’ll be required to shave all of your hair on your scalp down to about 1/16-th of an inch, which is not ideal for all patients.

We’re proud to be the first and only practice in Georgia to offer the ARTAS® Robotic Hair Transplant system, and my practice is the national training center for Restoration Robotics, the company that manufacturers the robot. I train doctors from across the USA in how to effectively use this complex surgical robot.

The Voice of the AHLC Dr. Anderson is a double-board certified Facial Plastic Surgeon and has confined his practice exclusively to the treatment of hair loss for over 14 years.

How does the ARTAS robot actually work in easy-to-understand terms?

The ARTAS Robotic System is a tool I as a physician use to perform efficient, precise follicular unit extraction (FUE) procedures with unparalleled accuracy. This method of hair restoration allows me to remove the hair for transplantation from the donor area without using a scalpel, or creating any linear scarring. It also allows very short hairstyles, which is a well-known limitation of the traditional procedures.

The ARTAS Robot Assisted FUE System scans and digitizes a small area of the scalp to identify and track each hair using complex algorithms. The robot also uses two custom, stereoscopic surgical cameras that allow the computer inside the robot to “see” the hairs. Each follicle from the donor area is selectively harvested with minimal trauma to the hair follicle, and the surrounding skin in the donor area.

How young is too young for surgery?

There are many, many hair transplant providers willing to overlook basic facts and convince themselves (and their patients) that a hair restoration for a frontal hairline in patients younger than 25 is a good idea, but I am not one of them. Since we know that hair loss has no known cure, and is progressive in nature (sometimes rapidly), it’s possible that young patients could be on track to progress to a Norwood Class 6 amount of hair by the time they’re 40. If they have had a hairline surgically placed, it’s permanent, and those hairs will be all that’s left. It will not look normal at all. Additionally, hair transplant procedures are simply a redistribution of the hair a patient has left. This means you can literally run out of hair to transplant as time passes. Young patients should fully engage in non-surgical remedies as a way to stabilize hair loss. In some cases these treatments can actually restore lost hair. These would include the medication finasteride, low level laser therapy (LLLT), and platelet-rich plasma treatments (PRP).

Issue 22, Summer 2017

29

The Voice of the AHLC

Don’t let it happen to you.

Danielle Peterson & Anna Amano, La Jolla Hair Clinic, San Diego time before they’d Custom made hair is a hot combe retrieved. modity in the modern world and with Although they more hair replacement salons becomdidn’t have an ing targets for theft, it’s good to be alarm system, they Desiree Peterson, Collette Peterson and Chele Piatt informed so your salon isn’t the next did have video featurette on the news. In Feburary, The most important change followsurveillance that captured the thieves family owned business La Jolla Hair ing the incident has become their new raiding their family salon. Video footClinic was attacked after hours, with precautionary safety measures. The age highlights the moments when thousands of custom hair systems sisters have since upgraded their locks, the two thieves stole heirloom styling stolen. Systems that can take almost three months to produce, had all disap- tools and her clients’ custom made hair installed a full high-tech alarm system, systems. Over peared. The thieves and ensured the shop is blanketed in the course of payed no mind to Video surveillance Images lighting during late night hours. They of the robbery two hours, the are cash register free and avoid ever the office equipthieves stole ment, computers or keeping cash or checks at the salon. a priceless furniture, it was the amount of hair and tools that Collette’s biggest recommendation tools, product, is keeping the hair safely locked up they targeted. and systems, with a limited number of employees while simulCollette Peterson granted access. Collette also wants taneously and Chele Piatt, the everyone in the industry to be familiar vandalizing owners of La Jolla with your insurance policy. “Keep all of the salon.

Hair Clinic, were your records maintained and familiardevastated when ize yourself with your insurance policy”, Having they discovered says Collette Peterson. “Or you risk a never had an their salon had long and arduous process of waiting issue prior, been ransacked for the insurance company to settle, the hair sysand robbed. Having tems were not like us”. grown up working in the family run salon, La Jolla Hair Clinic is much like a second home to the sisters. Collette broke into tears, dreading the phone calls she would have to make to her clients following the robbery. She’d have to detail the devastating reality, letting her clients know that their systems were stolen and there was an indefinite amount of

properly and safely locked away. Police suspect a person close to the salon tipped off the thieves about the accessibility of the hair and tools.

This incident has been incredibly eyeopening for the sisters and they have been working tirelessly to ensure that this never happens again, both to their salon and to others.

To this day, Collette still becomes very emotional when talking about the incident. Through the support of her family, friends, and clients, she is finally able to open up about it. Most importantly, Collette wants everyone in hair replacement industry to be aware and take precaution so this doesn’t happen to their businesses.

Issue 22, Summer 2017

31

The Voice of the AHLC

AHLC ACADEMY American Hairlines

INTRODUCTION TO NON-SURGICAL HAIR REPLACEMENT September 18, Lenexa, KS, 9 AM–5 PM A full-day seminar introducing you to the many possibilities of non-surgical hair replacement and systems from American Hairlines designed to answer the needs of all of your hair loss clients.

Beverages, morning pastries and lunch provided. $175 per person or $300 for two-day Registration (HairUWear on the Road an Intro to Non Surgical Hair Replacement) HairUWear Education Department, 888-389-4785

HAIRUWEAR

HAIRUWEAR ON THE ROAD June 26, Charlotte, NC, 8 AM–5 PM July 17, Long Island, NY, 8 AM–5 PM August 7, Cincinnati, OH, 8 AM–5 PM August 28, Tampa, FL, 8 AM–5 PM September 17 Lenexa, KS, 8 AM–5 PM Teaches you everything you need to know about working with wigs, hair additions, and hair extensions. Includes Wig Construction, Styling, Customization, and Client Consultations. Beverages, morning pastries and lunch provided.

HairUWear On The Road seminar kit included. $175 per person HairUWear Education Department, 888-389-4785

easihair professional education June 25-26th, 2017 - The Hair Specialists, Hudson, OH July 30-31st, 2017 - Atlanta, GA Open to the public. Limited spots still available!

August 20-21st, 2017 - Kenneth’s Salon and Spa, Columbus, OH Jacksonville, FL - Dates to be announced REVIVE 2 DAY HANDS-ON TRAINING CERTIFICATION

by Bobbi Russell, Licensed Clinical Trichologist, Master Hair Addition Specialist Revive is an innovative top of the head integration piece that does not require shaving and can be done in just ten minutes! This hands-on class focuses on: • Trichology basics, reasons for hair loss and measuring hair loss • Identifying ideal clients, consultation, pricing and color matching • Customizing by coloring, cutting and blending • Application, Removal, Reapplication and troubleshooting • At home maintenance and care • Marketing EASIHAIR PROFESSIONAL TAPE-IN HAIR EXTENSIONS CERTIFICATION Available hands-on training, online certifications and custom in salon classes that take you from identifying your ideal and potential clients, the complete consultation process, application, removal and reapplication, retailing to this specialized clientele and everything you need to know to dominate in this highly lucrative category.

Call us for additional information, in salon education opportunities and special AHLC class pricing! 855-704-4100

32 Issue 22, 21, Summer Spring 2017 2017

Hair Visions

International Hair Academy, Ft. Lauderdale, FL ON RITE/GEMTRESS 3 OR 4 DAY HANDS-ON HAIR REPLACEMENT AND MEDICAL HAIR LOSS CERTIFICATION June 10-13, August 19-22 MEDICAL HAIR LOSS CERTIFICATION CLASS June 13, August 22: ONE-DAY HANDS-ON EXTENSION CLASS FEATURING ULTRATRESS AND SIMPLICITY - ALL APPLICATION METHODS July 10, September 11: ​SPECIALTY WORKSHOP FEATURING WADE THE BARBER - WADE MENENDEZ July 24: Wade is a master barber who has been in the barber field for over 11 years and has developed an impressive following of celebrities and big screen stars. Wade will present a specialty cutting and styling class for the millennial ethnic client. Seating is limited. So don’t delay.

Call for more information 800-327-5555 HEAD FIRST TRICHOLOGY CERTIFICATION CLASSES July 16 - 17, September 24 - 25: Now available, in-studio Head First scalp and hair therapy certification. Differentiate and add value to your studio by offering your client’s a scalp and hair diagnostic assessment as a certified Head First trichology specialist. The Head First scalp and hair therapy program will set you apart from the competition in your area as the leader in the newest and most effective way to treat hair loss and scalp issues.

Call for registration information - 800-327-5555

HairArt

INTENSIVE ADVANCED HAIR REPLACEMENT TRAINING Hairart Salon, Los Angeles, CA Date: Open (call for available dates)

Learn everything you need to know about the hair replacement business from one of the leaders in the industry. HairArt has been in the hair replacement business for nearly 40 years and founder and head stylist, Doris Yu will teach you all the intricacies of the business; from how to discuss with your clients the delicate nature of hair thinning/hair loss and recommending the correct solutions, to making a mold, proper hair ordering, techniques for applying perm and semi-perm attachments, performing proper hair ventilation, cutting and styling. You will get an intensive hands-on training on mannequins and actual clients, so by the end of the course, you will be able to incorporate hair replacement solutions for your clients immediately and add to your portfolio of services. Techniques and client interaction are crucial for success, so a one-day or two-day course is not enough practical experience to fully understand, which is why we strongly recommend a minimum of a one-week course. *All training materials and hair are included in the cost of the course. Mannequin, tools, and practice pieces are yours to keep.

Cost: $6,000 for one-week course. $10,000 for two-week course Contact: (310) 217-8900

The Voice of the AHLC

IHI Aderans Hair Goods

WIGS 101: SO MUCH MORE THAN THE WIG June 26, Minneapolis, MN: 6/26/17 Have you wanted to learn more about wigs? Have a client going through chemo and want to be able to help? Provide hair replacement services but want to brush up on your wig skills? This is the perfect class for you! We will cover different types of fibers, wig alterations, thinning techniques and much more in this one day class.

Cost: $299, Contact: info@inthair.com ABC’S OF HAIR REPLACEMENT July 11-12, Minneapolis, MN • Are you looking to advance your career • Build new clientele • Create confidence This course will educate you on how to help your thinning hair clients beyond the haircut. This 1 1/2 day class will offer basic trichology knowledge and how to identify clients while conducting an effective consultation. The hands-on portion gives you the necessary skills cut an style hair loss solutions.

Cost: $299, Contact: info@inthair.com NEXT LEVEL EDUCATION: CUSTOMIZED CREATIONS September 19-20, Minneapolis, MN • Custom Ordering • Creating a full cap mold • Bonding and attachment methods • Hand’s-on cutting and blending techniques Get the confidence you need to customize solutions for your clients and take your service to the next level. Explore the many options in custom ordering, bonding and attaching, and practice cutting and blending techniques in the hands-on portion of this two day class.

Cost: $299, Contact: info@inthair.com

Jon Renau​

CORE I AND CORE II August 27 Core I, San Diego, CA August 28, Core II, San Diego, CA September 10, Core I, White Plains, NY September 11, Core II, White Plains, NY October 1, Core I, Milwaukee, WI October 2, Core II, Milwaukee, WI The CORE Certification program was designed to support our retailers with the end-consumer’s needs in mind.

CORE I Certification A foundational class focused on the client experience • Leads our retail partners through the complexities of client consultations, innovations in fibers, cap designs, proper care, etc • Furthers our partners’ knowledge and expertise in alternative hair, setting the apart as professionals $150, Contact: education@jonrenau.com CORE II Certification offers advanced, hands-on education focused in elevating your service offerings.

• Hands-on demonstrations with cap alterations, cutting alternative hair, redirecting knots and styling of human hair to better service the end client.

• Elevates our partners’ business and service offerings, with the goal of increasing their market share. (Core I Certification is required.) $400, Contact: education@jonrenau.com

Joli Caméléon

CERTIFIED CAMÉLÉON 7C Care/ Color/ Cut/ Customization Caméléon Certification Course Agoura Hills (Greater Los Angeles area), CA Call for next available class dates Vicka Khanis – Russian trained master hairdresser & colorist. Formerly Follea® Salon, Beverly Hills & several others. Over 25 years experience with human hair wigs. 20-year association with Michael, our founder.

Holly Slear – Joli Caméléon’s Technical Head and founding team member. Has taught hundreds of hairdressers about hair care & wig maintenance. Previously at Follea® of Beverly Hills. Over 10 years detailed technical experience with human hair wig manufacturing.

Maximizing the life of human hair wigs. The Do’s & Don’ts. Product training.

Creative cutting of short and long styles, incl. updo’s & off-the-face natural styles.

Coloring Joli Caméléon’s wigs and Toppe™ pieces for maximum effect.

Customization options to meet specific clients’ hair applications.

Focus on Women & Children with Alopecia & Thinning Hair.

You have a thirst for knowledge. The more you know, the better the service you provide your Clients. And the more you will earn. Caméléon Class Certified Graduates are eligible for special offers and can upgrade their clients with “insider” customization choices.

Cost: 3-day class $1,595, INCLUDES a no charge Joli Flex-Toppe MRP $1,692 for you to work with and take home. Also includes 3 lunches & 1 dinner.

Contact: 310-593-9988 or email: Hair@JoliCameleon.com Limited class size. First-come, first served. Ask us about area Hotels.

If you would like to come in earlier/ leave later, let us know how we can help with your plans. Ask Us About Bringing The 7C Class To Your Salon Location.

Dimples

We will bring the education to your location with: Dimples 1.0: In depth knowledge of Bronze, Silver, and Gold Dimples hair qualities, colors, bases, and styles. Critical information and tools for consultations, with the most in depth manual.

Dimples 2.0: Hands on coloring and rooting, and washing with all the do’s and don’ts for coloring Bronze, Silver, and Gold wigs and top extensions Dimples 3.0: Hands bonding on hair or bonding on skin, with lace front top extensions and more.”

Contact for price and more information.

James@Dimplesusa.Com 800-327-7100

AHLC MEMBER

SPONSORED EDUCATION Issue 22, Summer 2017

33

The Voice of the AHLC

Welcome Our Phyllis Allen PhilRich Intl, Orlando, FL Phyllis is a natural hair care expert and co-owner of PhilRich International Locks & Hair Extensions, “The Natural Hair Studio”. She is a licensed cosmetologist and a State of Florida provider for Braids, Hair Wrapping, and HIV courses.

Phyllis has been helping women transition to natural hair for over 20 years. She has worked in every arena in the beauty business. She has published her work in several magazines and she has authored several articles for magazines. She is the Author of “How to Make a Lace Front Wig”.

Jeanette C. Hill-Frederick Bliss Hair Studio LLC and Hair Restoration Center, Summerville SC Proudly serving the serving the industry over 25+ years, Jeanette decided to open her establishment in April of 2013. Jeanette offers non-surgical hair replacement and hair restoration treatments to men, women of all ages and children. Jeanette has experienced hair loss herself so therefore she understands how it can affects ones self confidence,she takes pride in servicing her clients in a comfortable private area. Jeanette is an IAT (International Association of Trichology) Certified Trichology Practitioner and Certified for non-surgical hair replacement services.

Maria Frederick Dream Wigs Boutique and New Generation Hair Replacement, Fishkill, NY As owner and manager Maria is a licensed cosmetologist and has been working in the hair style and hair replacement industry for over twenty-five years. Maria has certifications in men ‘s hair replacement and woman’s hair augmentation. Maria established New Generation Hair Replacement in 1994, and in the last several years expanded upon that business with the grand opening of Dream Wigs Boutique. The boutique is stocked with wigs and extensions from some of the best manufacturers in the business.

We specialize in the needs of both men and women in the following areas: Side effects of chemotherapy, alopecia, Lupus and natural hair loss.

Rosario Greco Rosario Greco Styles Ltd., Ontario, CA As a hairstylist, with over 35 years of experience, cut and colour specialist Rosario has a great passion for the hair industry. Internationally trained, he knows the importance of ongoing education in order to keep up with the latest cutting techniques and hair care products. Initially a competitor and now with a Life-Time Achievement Award in the Master Judges Program, Rosario has also involved himself in many industry related fundraisers, served on the board of the Guild of Hair Design and has traveled many parts of the world for training and platform work.

34 Issue 22, Summer 2017

Linda Heeley, Advanced Appearance Ltd., Birmingham, England Joint founder and company director of Advanced Appearance Ltd, Linda began her career in the hairdressing industry. After qualifying as a stylist she soon realized there was a high percentage of men and women suffering from hair loss problems and this is where Linda’s journey began 28 years ago. She researched the various conditions relating to hair loss, traveled extensively across Europe and the USA, working for various hair replacement companies to further her knowledge in Birmingham. In 2003 Linda and her business partner Peter Howarth brought Advanced Appearance after the owners retired. Linda felt the need to expand her business for the wellbeing of ladies undergoing treatments causing hair loss and established Pink Hair Solutions in Birmingham in 2006. Over the last ten years Pink has grown from strength to strength, increasing a talented team of eight specialists, offering the knowledge and skills shared by Linda. Her hard work was recognized and awarded when Linda and her team won the small business award in 2010.

Latina A. LeFlore Defined Hair Solutions, LLC Minneapolis, MN Latina begin her passion as a Licensed Cosmetologist year 1993 in Chicago, IL where she was born and raised. Visiting the salon and getting her hair done was a hobby that she enjoyed in her teenage years. In 1997, Latina experienced alopecia after having a baby which was the drive to take her career down the path of specializing in hair care. “I have always been passionate about helping people in a holistic way and with the gift from God giving me the expertise needed in the beauty industry to make people feel good from the inside out was a blessing words can’t explain.” She started studying trichology in 2007 after providing service to many clients that were suffering from severe hair loss due to many causes. Latina provides hair and scalp therapeutic services to all ethnicities; men, women, and children.

Cassey and Sage Lundell Salt Lake City, UT Cassey has been a hairdresser in Salt Lake City Utah at Lunatic Fringe Salon for 10 years. Throughout this past decade, she has encountered many people dealing with hair loss, and finally decided it was time to learn more about how to help them. She plans to Maintain her clientele at Lunatic Fringe while opening up a separate space focued on hair loss solutions!!

Cassey and her husband Sage, along with the owners of Lunatic Fringe will be opening up shop this summer!

The Voice of the AHLC

Newest Members!

David Richey Images of Princeton, Hamilton, NJ David Richey is the cofounder of Images of Princeton & Images of Cherry Hill. He has been in the hair replacement industry since 1987. Dave experienced hair loss at a young age while attending college. Although losing his hair at an early age was devastating, he saw firsthand the positive effect of utilizing hair replacement. For Dave, having hair again literally changed his life and this inspired him to look further into the hair loss solutions industry. While obtaining his BS degree in Business Administration from Stockton University, he simultaneously opened up his first hair replacement studio – and has been going strong ever since. Images of Princeton specializes in all forms of nonsurgical hair replacement including: full head bonding, perimeter bonding, hair systems, wigs and Laser Hair Therapy.

Roberta Rolins Salon Roberta, Atlanta, GA Roberta established Salon Roberta in June 2014, a private service salon. As a highly respected and in demand stylist for over 30 years, she wanted to offer her existing clientele a modern stylish salon as well as services for her new clients needing hair solutions and custom wig designs for their individual wig wardrobe. Roberta is compassionate, sincere and dedicated to her expertise in the hair industry.

Ynohtna Tureaud Anointed Hands Trichology Center for Hair Loss, Gonzales, LA is one of the leading hair care specialists, as well as one of the first Certified Trichologists, in the state of Louisiana.

She has been in the hair care industry for over 18 years. Throughout the years, she has become a licensed Cosmetologist, Barber, and Instructor. The last six years have catapulted Ynohtna into the ever-evolving science of Trichology, where she specializes in addressing all forms of hair loss and scalp disorders. Ynohtna’s passion to help individuals overcome the stigmas associated with hair loss, has caused her to delve and excel in the field of Trichology. Her extensive training, along with her skills, have equipped her to provide hope to those who assumed their fate was to simply accept their hair loss. Ynohtna’s goal is to revive individuals’ healthy hair and provide them with the tools to maintain it.

Debra Ann Walker Debra Walker’s Classic Styles, Naples, FL Debra is a licensed cosmetologist and certified hair loss expert. She recently expanded her business to Naples from the Washington DC/Metropolitan area and brings over 20 years of dedicated professional experience. She offers multicultural hair services and specializes in non-surgical hair replacement. Debra volunteers for the The American Cancer Society’s Look Good Feel Better Program, Women with Cancer Support Groups, and Relay for Life. It is her mission to continue to her change the lives of people who suffer from all types of hair loss.

Sally Weiss, Old Town Hair Company, Fort Collins, CO I have owned Old Town Hair Company twenty years and have 25 years of cosmetology experience; during my time as a cosmetologist I developed a great deal of compassion for women experiencing hair loss. It was this that led me to working with and specializing in women’s hair loss issues. I have completed training certification in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida at the International Hair Academy specializing in hair replacement techniques and design. I have also undergone training at the International Hair goods in Minnesota. I look forward to the new opportunities and experiences working with the American Hair Loss Council and their members. Their education and product knowledge will help continue my education and experience with hair loss.

Grace Biogen is a natural supplement company who produce high quality supplements in accordance to strict pharmaceutical guidelines under the Australian TGA specifications – these specifications exceed the requirements of the FDA but ensures confidence in efficacy of each of the products. Grace Biogen holds GMP, HACCP, FDA HALAL and TGA certifications for manufacturing. Hair Fact is a brand of supplements designed with hair regrowth in mind. With 25 years of research and development behind the product range and extensive clinical studies, Hair Fact is the first of its kind using cyclical therapy in a supplement program. Learn more at gracebiogen.com.au I’m Elizabeth Brambilla, creator of SurvivorEyes. Our driving force is to provide those who struggle with hair loss a solution that evokes self confidence & strength, usually at a time when it is needed most! As a breast cancer survivor, I know from personal experience the challenge we face when the treatments which are meant to save our lives, also impairs our appearance. Our BrowStyle kits were inspired by a friend’s struggle with the loss of her eyebrows during her chemo treatments, and her fear of leaving the house while “looking sick.” She needed a solution, that would allow her to feel confident and beautiful. My background in beauty and my entrepreneurial nature allowed me to quickly identify a solution that is easy to use and achieves high quality results. Besides the “all-day-wear” feature, the beautiful thing about SurvivorEyes is that every purchase supports charities that help those who struggle with hair loss through their 5% annual “giveback.” Learn more at survivoreyes.com.

To become a new member or to renew your membership, log on to AHLC.org or call us at 615.721.8085 Issue 22, Summer 2017

35

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AHLC ANNUAL CONFERENCE

APRIL 21-23

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