Braids Weaves / Relaxer Injury Compensation Claims

Is It Possible to Claim For Braids, Weaves and Relaxer Injuries?

Even though they’re instantly gratifying and often an enormous morale booster for many, hair extensions can, and do, lead to scalp damage if badly fitted. Problems can also arise if they are used too frequently or left in for extended periods of time. There are many women that have hair extensions, weaves, braids and use chemical relaxers. Afro-Caribbean hair is a hair type that is very popular with these methods as it’s significantly dryer than other hair types and the structure of the hair itself makes it more prone to breakage.

If you are one of the many who have suffered damage to your hair caused by braids, weaves or relaxers and it wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation for the damage. We have a team of knowledgeable and friendly solicitors who will deal with your claim from start to finish. We are a No Win No Fee solicitor and our main priority is to obtain the maximum amount of compensation for you.

What Are Hair Extensions?

Hair extensions involve the use of synthetic or human hair to thicken and/or lengthen existing hairstyles of the user. There are a number of ways that they can be applied some of these methods include:

• Plaiting the extension hair into the real hair near the root.
• Bonding individual extension pieces with a glue and fixing with a heated clamp
• woven into existing hair by braiding close to the scalp.

What Can Go Wrong When Fitting Hair Extensions?

There can be some salons or independent extension specialists who don’t fit hair extensions correctly. There can be many problems especially when the bonding technique has been used. If an extension isn’t attached to enough natural hair, or if the natural hair is too weak to support it, the weight of the extension will pull the natural hair until it either breaks or is pulled out.

If too many extensions are fitted, the increased weight means that the natural hair is being constantly pulled down. This can cause a lot of stress on the scalp and supporting hair follicles. If the weave method is chosen and the extensions are applied too tightly this can cause damage to the natural hair. The damage that occurs with this method is especially seen when they are removed. They may also cause irritation & rubbing on the scalp.

Having weaves or braids fitted & using chemical relaxers carry their own risks, some examples are:

• Bacterial Scalp Infections
• Thinning hair
• Developing a form of Scarring Hair Loss
• Hair relaxers changing the Structure of the Hair

Are There Long-Term Hair Extension Implications?

If natural hair is constantly pulled by hair extensions this can lead to permanent damage of the hair follicles. When this happens the natural hair isn’t able to grow back and bald patches will appear on the scalp. This condition is known as traction alopecia.

Traction alopecia is a substantial risk to consider when looking into getting hair extensions. The hair which the extensions or weave is attached too is still growing, and therefore it will require frequent maintenance. The maintenance for hair extensions usually involves the extensions being removed, the hair is re-braided and then the extension is re-attached. Due to the braids being pulled so tightly, this causes tension on the hair that is already at risk for falling out.

What Should I Do After Hair Extension Complications?

Compensation claims that are based around personal image can be some of the most distressing types of injury and we understand that this can be a difficult time for you. We always ensure sure that all the claims we deal with are done so in a sensitive manner, and if you would find it easier we can ensure that you speak to a female solicitor. If you are one of the many that have been unfortunate enough to suffer an injury from braids, weaves or relaxers then please contact our friendly team as soon as possible. We also advise to:

• Take clear photographs of the damage to your hair and scalp
• Take a hair sample to show the damage to your hair

How Can I Prevent My Hair Extensions From Causing Injury?

Being able to fit hair extensions requires a specialist set of skills; any stylist that offers the service should be properly trained and fully qualified. The client’s hair should initially have a thorough assessment to identify which methods and products are the suitable choice. This assessment should include checking the strength of the client’s hair prior to applying extensions, to assess whether the hair can hold the extensions without breaking.

The stylist should ensure the client fully understands how to look after the extensions and when to return to the salon. Extensions should not remain in the hair for longer than three months, and should always be removed by a trained professional to avoid hair breakage. A stylist should inform a client if signs of hair loss occur, and should not continue to apply extensions.

Is It Possible to Make a Compensation Claim for Traction Alopecia?

Traction alopecia is extremely distressing condition and if it has been caused through another’s negligence then you may be able to claim compensation. It is very important to take photographs of the injuries sustained and keep any hair extensions because they may be key pieces of evidence for your case.

Sometimes it can be beneficial to seek a second opinion from a fully trained stylist, as they will be able to establish if the hair extensions have been badly or negligently fitted. A stylist who has failed to inform a client that their hair is showing signs of hair loss can be liable for compensation for traction alopecia, as they have neglected the health of the client.

Why Should I Choose Tylers Solicitors to Represent My Personal Injury Claim?

If you would like to make a compensation claim for a Braids, Weaves or Relaxer Injury case then call Tylers Solicitors today for a no-obligation chat on (freephone) 0800 699 0079 today!

For any Product Liability Claims, call Tylers Solicitors today, a leading UK provider of no-win, no-fee legal services. Our experienced team will work with you to get the maximum amount of compensation you’re entitled to, following any kind of injury that isn’t your fault!