We are diving deep into the questions you’ve always wanted to ask your stylist but might have been too shy to. From the practical to the quirky, we’re here to demystify the salon experience and provide straightforward answers to your burning hair questions.
Whether you’re a seasoned salon-goer or considering your first visit, this blog is your backstage pass to understanding everything from appointment etiquette to payment preferences.
So grab a seat, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and let’s get real about all things haircare.
- Should my hair be dirty or clean when I come in for my hair appointment?
While it might seem tempting to roll out of bed and head straight to your appointment, it is actually best to come in with clean hair. Think of it this way: your hair is like a canvas, and we’re the artists! Starting with a fresh canvas ensures that we can work our magic more effectively. Dirty hair can be laden with oils, product buildup, and environmental pollutants, making it harder to achieve the desired results.
Although, clean hair doesn’t actually allow products to penetrate better, from a scientific standpoint, clean hair provides a more accurate visual of what your hair color actually is, leading to clear and even results.
So, while we won’t turn you away if you show up with unwashed locks, your hair—and your stylist—will thank you for starting fresh!
The only time this is EXTREMELY important, is when you are coming in for custom curly haircut. For this, you must come in with your hair clean and styled the way you normally wear it. It actually isn’t really necessary to be freshly clean that day, but if you’ve worn it in a bun or pony tail since the last time it was washed, you have to start over as the bend in your natural texture will change the outcome of the haircut.
2. Is purchasing my products in a salon really important?
Yes and no. While I don’t sell retail products in the salon, I still highly encourage you to invest in quality hair care products from legitimate sources. I’m all about quality and love guiding you toward the best solutions for your hair. I’m more than happy to consult with you and give personalized recommendations to ensure you find the perfect products for your hair type and concerns.
When you purchase directly from the manufacturer or authorized retailers online, you’re ensuring that you’re getting the real deal—no knockoffs or expired products that could potentially harm your hair. Plus, many manufacturers offer online resources and consultations to help you along the way.
So, while you won’t be leaving the salon with a bag full of goodies, you can still feel confident in your at-home hair care routine. Trust me, your locks will thank you for it!
3. What look would look best on ME?
Ah, the million-dollar question! Here’s the thing: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each person is unique, with their own individual style, personality, and hair type. While trends can certainly be fun to experiment with, the key to finding your perfect look lies in embracing what makes you feel confident and beautiful.
As your stylist, my goal is to work with you to discover the style that not only flatters your features but also reflects your personal taste and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of a dramatic transformation or simply looking to enhance your natural beauty, we’ll collaborate to create a look that’s uniquely you. And remember, confidence is the ultimate accessory—so rock whatever style makes you feel like the fabulous, unstoppable force of nature that you are!
4. My baby sitter canceled on me. Can I bring my kids?
Absolutely! I completely understand that life happens, and sometimes finding childcare at the last minute can be a challenge. While I do my best to maintain a relaxing environment for all my clients, I’m more than happy to accommodate your little one for this one-time visit.
However, I do want to be transparent about the potential impact on your experience. Bringing a child along can understandably shift the dynamics of your appointment, making it a bit more challenging to fully relax and enjoy your time in the salon. To help mitigate any disruptions, I recommend bringing along a quiet activity or toy to keep your little one entertained while I work my magic on your hair.
While I strive to create a serene atmosphere for all my clients, I understand that sometimes life calls for a little flexibility. So, if your sitter cancels last minute and it’s a choice between skipping your appointment altogether or bringing your little one along, I’m more than happy to welcome them into the salon.
After all, family always comes first.
And for my pup parents, bring them. A distraction they will be but the smiles won’t end!!
5. How long will my appointment take?
The duration of your appointment can vary depending on the service you’re receiving and your individual hair needs. Generally, a haircut will typically take about 45 minutes to an hour, while color services can range anywhere from two to four hours or more. However, these are just ballpark estimates, and the actual time may vary based on factors like hair length, thickness, and the complexity of the style or color technique.
If it’s your first visit or you have particularly thick or long hair that typically requires extra time, please don’t hesitate to let me know in advance so we can plan accordingly. After all, your time is valuable, and my goal is to ensure that you leave the salon feeling fabulous and ready to take on the world—no matter how long it takes!
6. What is the best way to pay for my services?
Payment options abound, my friend! I’m equipped to accept all forms of payment, from cash to cards and digital platforms like Venmo and Zelle.
While I’m happy to accommodate your preferred method, I do want to shed some light on the topic of rewards cards. While they may seem like a convenient way to earn points or cashback, it’s important to recognize that merchants like myself bear the brunt of those rewards. In fact, on a $300 ticket, I could end up shelling out a hefty $60 fee just to cover those rewards. Ouch!
So, while I’m more than happy to accept your rewards card if that’s your preference, I want to make sure you’re aware of the impact it can have on small businesses like mine. At the end of the day, I’m here to provide top-notch service and ensure your satisfaction, regardless of how you choose to pay. So, swipe, tap, or transfer—whatever works best for you works for me!
7. How often should I schedule appointments for trims or touch-ups?
The frequency of trims or touch-ups truly depends on your individual hair journey and desired style. If you’re aiming to grow out your locks, remember that patience is key—sometimes you’ll need to embrace a slightly awkward phase as your hair reaches its full potential.
For those rocking a bleach and tone, consistency is key to keeping those pesky yellow bands at bay; I recommend scheduling touch-ups every 4-6 weeks to maintain that flawless blonde hue.
Men’s haircuts often fall into the realm of personal preference, with appointments typically spaced anywhere from 3-6 weeks apart.
As for root touch-ups to cover pesky greys, it’s all about finding the sweet spot between upkeep and convenience; appointments can range from every 3-6 weeks depending on how much those silver strands bug you.
If you’re flaunting a balayage, rejoice in the low-maintenance glory—this style is designed to look effortlessly chic as it grows out, so you’ll only need to come in once or twice a year.
Traditional highlights, on the other hand, benefit from more frequent attention, with touch-ups recommended every 6-10 weeks to keep your strands looking fresh and vibrant.
Remember, the right timing for your appointments is as unique as you are, so don’t hesitate to discuss your individual needs and goals with me, your stylist. Together, we’ll find the perfect schedule to keep your locks looking fabulous at every stage of the game!
8. How can I maintain my hair color between salon visits?
Maintaining your hair color between salon visits requires a few key strategies.
Firstly, opt for high-quality color-safe shampoo and conditioner to help preserve your hue and keep it looking fresh for longer. When washing your hair, switch to cooler water, as hot water can strip color and lead to premature fading.
Embrace heat-free styling whenever possible, but if you do reach for the hot tools, always use a heat protectant to shield your strands from damage.
Lastly, for those moments when your color needs a little extra love, consider incorporating toning shampoos and conditioners into your routine, but remember, moderation is key. To learn a little more about toning shampoos the advice given in this blog post will apply to most of the advice given about toning products, not just purple shampoo (but also especially purple shampoo).
As always, I’m here to provide personalized recommendations tailored to your unique hair needs and color goals, so don’t hesitate to ask for guidance!
9. Do you offer consultations for major hair transformations or changes?
Whether you’re dreaming of a dramatic chop, a bold new hue, or a complete hair overhaul, embarking on a major hair transformation can be equal parts exhilarating and daunting. Fear not, my friend—I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
From an always free initial consultation to personalized recommendations and expert advice even after you’ve left the salon, I’ll work with you to bring your hair goals to life in a way that’s tailored to your unique style, preferences, and lifestyle.
10. Can I safely color my hair at home, or should I leave it to the professionals?
In all honesty, it’s best to leave hair coloring to the professionals. Even with seemingly simple applications, the risks outweigh the benefits. Home hair coloring can often result in uneven color, damage, and even unforeseen allergic reactions.
Additionally, attempting to fix any mistakes made during the process can lead to further damage and costly salon visits in the long run. Professional hairstylists are trained to assess your hair’s unique needs and provide customized solutions, ensuring optimal results and minimizing the risk of damage. So, while the allure of DIY hair color may be strong, it’s best to resist the temptation and trust your tresses to the experts.
Your hair—and your peace of mind—will thank you in the end.
As we draw the curtain on this enlightening journey through the inner workings of the salon world, I hope you’ve found answers to some of your most pressing hair questions.
Remember, the salon experience is about more than just hair—it’s about trust, connection, and empowerment. Whether you’re scheduling your next appointment or embarking on a daring new style adventure, know that you’re not alone. Your stylist is here to guide you every step of the way, armed with expertise, passion, and a whole lot of love for your locks.
So here’s to embracing the beauty of self-expression, celebrating the unique journey of each and every client, and always striving to make every day a great hair day.
Until next time, my friends—stay fabulous, stay fierce, and above all, stay true to yourself.
Cheers,
Rachel
