Ladies and Gents, it’s obvious, we all want to look our best.  Even when we’re “just not really feeling it,” having your hair styled seems to always pick you up and make you feel better.  I can’t explain it but there is 960x1440 retina2something so relaxing and soothing about sitting in that chair and putting your head in the shampoo bowl and having someone wash and massage your head!  Sure a nice pair of shoes and a slamming outfit can surely help with your finished look but if your hair isn’t’ looking good then your entire appearance seems incomplete and unpolished.  This is why having the right hairstylist is essential not only for going out on those special occasions and having a “banging” look or having that clean cut everyday appearance but having healthy hair promotes healthy skin as well.   Some of us are very fortunate to have a long standing relationship with a hairstylist we can trust. A stylist who can cut our hair, give us the right color boost to give us a refreshed look, give us a short doo on Monday and a Diana Ross/Beyoncé doo on Friday.  But for those who are in the market to find the right hairstylist here are six important tips and some red flags to look out for when considering a hairstylist.

1. When you see someone with great hair and a great style, ask them where they got it done. Most people are happy you noticed their hair and are more than happy to share the name of the stylist and the name and number of the salon.  If you can, try to get that person name to share with the stylist when you make an appointment.  If the person has a unique hair color, ask if the know the color or color brand and if you can take a picture to show the stylist.

2. Check the salon website and any other social networks they may be on.  It is very important to check for comments, complaints and feedback!  Just because they may show a million in their social population, doesn’t mean that they don’t have a million complaints!  Also check the professionalism of the website, education of the stylists, specialties, hours of operation, walk-ins or appointment requirements and of cause the pictures of the stylist finished work. 

3. Arrange/book a consultation appointment. Some salons offer free consultations, and some charge a small fee. At the consultation you can ask specific questions. Example: “How long has the salon been in business?”  “Has the salon ever been shut down for any type of violations? “How long does a typical hair appointment take?” “Is there a fee for missed appointments?” 

4. Bring in photos of hair styles you would love to have and listen to the realistic suggestions the stylist offers.  Be honest, tell the stylist of the horror hair stories you’ve experienced.  Pay close attention how the stylist reacts and give solutions to the stories you’ve shared.  Red Flag_ If the stylist seems bored, non-responsive or agitated by your questions it’s likely the stylist is guilty of some of the negative occurrences or is not confident he or she can perform some of the styles you’ve presented or is not confident they can meet your expectations.  

 5. Check the salon for cleanliness and professionalism.  Red Flag_ if you see hair strains, combs, brushes and towels on the floor, this is a red flag that the salon is not using good sanitation practices.  Also check the restrooms.  If there is no hand soap and hand towels, well let your imagination be our guide.  Red Flag– If you’re hearing the phone ring off the hook and the receptionist is goofing off somewhere, don’t bother to waste your time.  You’ll save yourself the headache of double bookings, misquoted appointment times, waiting hours to be seen and need I say more.    

6. Sometimes it takes a second try to get a better feel of the salon. Hairstylists meet people for the first time a lot. It’s what they do. But sometimes people just don’t click on the first try. Hairstylists try to strike a delicate balance between asking icebreaker questions and seeming nosy. They want to know what your lifestyle is like (busy mom, student, business owner) so they can tailor your hair and the subsequent home hair care and maintenance around your specific situation. Help the stylist with your own list and expectations of what you can and can’t do with your hair and what you need for them to do.  

Lastly always remember:

Once you find that “perfect hairstylist and salon,” Try to keep a happy medium between you and your stylist.  It can become very easy to forget that this is a business transaction so at the end of the day if you are unhappy with your hair, be gentle, but be honest with your hair stylist.  Believe me; the stylist you have built a rapport with wants to make you happy (a happy customer is a returning customer as well as good advertisement.) Also, its business for them too and they are professionals.  They won’t take it personal and if they do, than reconsider going to them. 

Try to be on time!  If you are going to be late, call!  The Stylist knows how long each customer appointment will take and your lateness can disrupt the flow of their business.

Agreeing to take pictures of the stylist masterpiece is a nice way to help your stylist build their portfolio.  So if they ask, it’s a nice jester it you comply.

Remember, not to take a hard day at the office out on your stylist!  Use this time to De-stress and relax.  Talk to your stylist. They’re not a therapist but they’re there to help you.

“And don’t forget to tip!

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