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Monday, 06 June 2011 17:57

Ericka Dotson: Innovative Hair Entrepreneur

Written by  Stephanie Yeboah
Ericka Dotson: Innovative Hair Entrepreneur
 Meet Ericka Dotson, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Indique Hair, a premium hair extension company which caters for the likes of Lady Gaga, Ciara, Chanel Iman and many more. Dotson, who previously worked in the corporate industry was inspired to fill in the gap within the hair and extension industry with a premier, knowledgeable and consumer oriented business. In this interview, we explore Ericka’s inspirations, her hair growing extension empire and her advice to future entrepreneurs.

 What inspired you to start your hair line?

My inspiration came from my clients. They were searching for great hair, excellent customer service, and loads of information I realised there were millions of women with the same concern. My goal was to make Indique the source that filled that void in the market.

Where there any challenges switching from the corporate industry to the beauty industry?

Internally, I didn’t experience any challenges switching to the beauty industry. Beauty and hair is my passion. The transition was natural for me. For most entrepreneurs, a decrease in your financial income in the beginning can always be a challenge. I stayed focused and worked through the hard times because I knew I would eventually see financial reward and success with a lot of determination.

You have had the likes of Lady Gaga, Ciara and Chanel Iman wear your extensions. What’s been the highlight so far?

One highlight for me was seeing Chanel Iman wearing our hair in a Victoria’s Secret commercial. Their commercials are always so beautiful with the professional lighting and top models.

What would you say are the most exciting parts of your career?

The most rewarding part of my career when I see the smile on a woman’s face and the confidence she exudes after having Indique hair applied. It’s so exciting to build a company and provide job opportunities. I’m happy to work with a talented team of individuals who have helped make Indique a success. Indique has evolved rapidly over the past 4 years. It’s exciting to experience the growth and see my dream come to life.

What makes Indique’s hair extensions unique from other Remy extensions?

Indique has an actual hair factory where all of the hair is treated and manufactured. Most companies outsource their hair from other vendors leaving you with inconsistent product. Indique also offers the Bounce Collection that is processed via steam curling. Most companies chemically perm their hair to achieve special wave and curl patterns.

How important is it for women to find and buy the right type of hair?

If you’re looking for a hair that moves, has body, versatility, and is manageable, you should choose premium Remy hair. Also, premium Remy hair like Indique has longevity that will take you through numerous weave installs. It’s both beautiful and cost effective.

What are some of your favourite celebrity hairstyles at the moment?

I really love the look of Laurie Ann Gibson’s hair right now. I’m not being partial to her hair because she’s wearing Indique! I really love the mix of edgy and feminine. Gwen Stefani is also one of my faves. She manages to maintain her signature look with bleach blonde tresses and unique styles. Last but not least, Chaka Khan’s hair has always been my dream hair.

Indique provide collections within the extension range which is quite rare within the hair extension industry. How important is it for you to provide different types of hair to individual customers?

It’s important for us to provide an array of textures for our multi-cultural customer base. They should never have to shop elsewhere for specific textures. Some women want a sleek and straight look. Others want extremely textured curls or luxurious waves. We have it all at Indique and continue to add to our portfolio of hair collections.

Often, applying extensions can often be quite time consuming. Do you offer any alternative choices for women who are time poor?

We have an amazing collection of easy-to-apply pieces that will help you achieve instant glam! Our Studio Collections currently offers a bang piece, a ponytail, and a wonderful unit called the Fishnet that adds length and volume in a snap.

What are your top 3 hair care tips for extension wearers?

Maintenance is key. Treat your extensions as you would your natural hair. However, you should take your extensions down every 8 weeks, and every six months you should give your hair a break from extensions, at least 2 weeks to one month.

Avoid hairline breakage at all costs! Take care of your natural hair. Try to leave out ample hair around the edges to avoid added tension around your hairline. Tight braids applied close to your hairline with tracks sewn on them can easily break or cause further damage like tractional alopecia.

Shampoo hair in the shower in a downward motion to keep hair from tangling. Air dry or use a diffuser for curly hair, for straight styles use your blow dryer and a vent brush and flat iron until sleek. Make sure your base braids are fully dry to avoid braid mildew.

Finally, do you have any advice for any up and coming entrepreneurs?

It is important to love what you are doing and to be interested in all aspects of the business. Embrace your failures. The failures provide you with valuable experience that help you grow as an entrepreneur. Finally, always aim for a common goal with intense determination and try not to steer away from it.

Visit www.indiquehair.com to find out more!

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