The basics

Basic hair structure, consultation and preparation for treatment:

The hair can be described as a slender, thread-like outgrowth from a follicle in the skin. Composed mainly of keratin. It has three layers- the cuticle, cortex and medulla.

• Hair cuticle- The outer layer of the hair: Many layers of overlapping scales which protects the hair. The scales lift up when chemicals are added, to allow penetration.
• Cortex- Is the middle layer of the hair between the hair cuticle and the medulla. It also contains most of the hair's pigment, giving the hair its colour. This is the layer where artificial colouring and heat treatments (blow dry, curling and straightening) take place. It also gives the hair its strength and elasticity.
• Medulla- Little is known about the centre layer of the hair. This nearly invisible layer serves as the pith of the hair. It is present in thicker hair more often than not.

1.

Consultation

The best way to carry out a successful client consultation is to ask the correct questions in the correct way. So here are six tips for a perfect hair consultation:

• Listen and learn: This is the very essence of a consultation. Make sure you really paying attention to the client and listen to what the client is saying.
• Consultations build trust and grow salon relationships: Great relationships are built on mutual respect and trust. Body language is essential too to create trust. Always sit down for consultations and sit on the same level because if you're standing, your client may feel intimidated. Avoid folded arms and legs, use their language, not hairdresser's jargon to reassure them that you understand what they are saying. And of course always SMILE :)
• Don't be afraid(or lazy)to ask: A great consultation begins with getting to know all about your client, and not just their hair. Ask personalised questions to understand why they want their hair in a certain way: time constraints, sport lover, fashion lover, wears glasses, etc...? Remember to take notes. It reassures them that you really are taking notice of their concerns.
• Up sell your services with consultations:  Make suggestions, sow the seed, explore. Offer your thoughts and ideas and see where it leads.
• Check, check and check again: The consultation is the time to make sure that you and your client are both 100%  clear about what you are going to do. Be clear about the prices too to avoid awkward situations when your client comes to pay.
• A great consultation is a marketing gold: If you want your retail products to sell, consultations are the answer. Establish what are your client's main concerns and you can suggest what products will resolve the problems. Ask about their hair care routine at home. This is your perfect opportunity to introduce retail recommendations.

Checking contraindications:

A contraindication is something that prevents you carrying out the treatment. It is vital that you ask your client if she suffers from any contraindications whether to establish if it is safe to carry out the treatment. (cyst, cuts, allergies, etc...)

It is very important that you record your client's answers in order to have proof that she was asked before the treatment in case if any problem occurs during/after the treatment. A good way of doing this is to have some standard contraindications questions printed on a card which can be ticked when they have been asked. You should also ask your client to sign the card to validate that the questions were asked and their responses were accurately recorded.

A hair test is also necessary before the treatment is carried out.

Preparation:
Client preparation should always include a thorough hair and scalp analysis by an experienced hair stylist who will confirm whether it is safe or not to carry out the treatment. 

Protecting the client: 
The client's clothing must be protected at all times! Always use a clean gown and towel. If the client is not gowned properly, their clothes may get wet or damaged if they are having a chemical treatment.

Positioning the client and checking your posture:

Position the client correctly at the backwash basin and check if she is comfortable. The client's position will affect your posture at the basin and how tired you feel at the end of the shampooing and conditioning. Poor posture may have a long-term effect on your wellbeing so make sure you are in a correct posture.

Health & Safety:

Using resources efficiently- Professional hairdressing products are very expensive, therefore it is impotent to use them cost-effectively. Some shampoos and conditioners have pump dispensers which may help to reduce unnecessary waste by dispensing just the right amount of product. By minimising waste, you save money, making your business more profitable.

Reducing the risk of cross-infection- Any tools and equipment that come into contact with the client's hair must be completely clean and sanitised. This will help to maintain a safe and hygienic work environment. As well as keeping your environment clean you must remember your personal cleanliness. By ensuring your personal standards of health and hygiene, you minimise the risk of cross-infection and infestation to your clients and colleagues.

Reducing the risk of injury- Your hands are essential to carry out everyday tasks at your workplace and home. As your hands will often be in water, always make sure to dry them thoroughly and use a barrier cream and protective gloves. This will help to reduce the risk of dermatitis, a skin condition that often affects hairdressers. It is caused by constant contact with chemicals and products, such as shampoos and conditioners, etc...
It is also essential to store, use, handle and dispose of products in accordance with manufacturers' instructions, salon policies and local bylaws. As a make-up and hair artist you are expected to have a good knowledge of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, therefore minimising the risk of harm or injury to yourself and others.


Reference:

Picture 1: Gaganpreet, S. (2013) Difference between permanent, Demi-permanent, Semi-permanent and temporary hair colorants. [Online]
Available at: http://www.reviewsandlifestyle.com/2013/04/Permanent-demi-permanent-semi-permanent-temporary-hair-colors-how-they-work.html?m=0
(Accessed: 05 December 2015)
Lockhart Meyer Salon Marketing. (No date) 6 powerful tips for a perfect hair salon consultation [Online]
Available at: http://www.lockhart-meyer.co.uk/6-powerful-tips-for-a-perfect-hair-salon-consultation/
(Accessed: 05 December 2015)
Hairdressing Training. (No date) Questioning your client about contraindications and recording responses [Online]
Available at: http://hairdressing.ac.uk/node/475
(Accessed: 05 December 2015)
[Online]
Available at: http://www.pearsonschoolsandfecolleges.co.uk/AssetsLibrary/PDFs/GH1L1NVQHairdressing-updated.pdf
(Accessed: 05 December 2015)