Without a doubt, hair extensions are now one of the most profitable beauty products available, with a vast majority of women opting for this quick fix to have their dream hair.
It is hard to look at an advert or magazine these days, without seeing the little caption “styled with hair extensions”. As an ‘extension fan’ myself, I, like many others, enjoy the wide variety of styles extensions can provide and the confidence having the hair you’ve always wanted can bring. I am therefore shocked when I hear about the injuries extensions can cause if not fitted correctly, consequently turning the hair of your dreams into more of a nightmare.
Hair extensions have had their fair share of ‘bad press’ with regards to the damage they can do to your natural hair and scalp. However, there is a correct way to have extensions fitted, hence the many training courses available to hairdressers wishing offering this service. Fitting extensions may seem straightforward – however, everybody’s hair is different and therefore it is always advisable to book a consultation with your stylist to discuss how the extensions will work.
Unfortunately, as you are depending on your natural hair to support the new extensions, if they are fitted incorrectly it is possible you may suffer injury and may have the right to make a claim for compensation.
A common scenario is where the wrong amount of ‘tracks’ (the lines of ‘fake’ hair) are fitted, as these become too heavy and cause an excessive burden on your natural hair. This can cause not only your extensions to fall out prematurely but also your natural hair to be pulled out as well, leaving bald patches, an irritated scalp, and possible scaring. Any professional providing you with a service has a duty of care to ensure that service is carried out safely and therefore if it is not, they will have been negligent and consequently you may have the right to claim.
Another common injury can be caused by the glue used to attach the hair. The hair should not be attached to your scalp but rather to the roots of your natural hair as it can cause irritation to the scalp and consequently a lot of scratching. Although innocent at first it is possible that any open scratches on the scalp can become easily infected.
Hair extensions are products that we buy (and not cheaply!) to enhance the look of our hair and therefore they should not have the opposite effect of causing hair loss. It is advisable to check that the person you are trusting to fit your extensions is trained and from my own experience many who are, are more than happy to have a long and informative chat with you to ensure the above injuries do not occur.
If you have been injured due to hair extensions that have been fitted incorrectly and therefore negligently, you may be entitled to claim. Hair extensions do not come cheap and often the aftercare of such injuries can also be expensive. Here, at The Injury Lawyers, we are able to include any aftercare costs in your claim for compensation and as we work on a genuine no win no fee agreement you can be sure you will receive 100% of this.
