10 THINGS YOUR HAIRSTYLIST WISHES YOU KNEW

I do not get my hair done, like the most I ever get done is a 3-4 inch chop every year, so I am definitely no expert to talk about this! BUT I knew that haircare and going to the salon are things everyone has to do and a topic most people can relate to. SO, I asked my friend Mel, who is a hairstylist, if she could give me at least 3 tips for people to know, and BOY -- she gave me more than that! She dished out tea that you wish you would have known sooner and she literally wrote this whole entire blog & for that, I am thankful!
(Side-note: when I read through these I was like YIKES. I am so low maintenance with my hair and yet I STILL have done some of these things! BUT these things are not said to make anyone feel bad or anything like that, these are just a list of things for you to know that might make life easier on you and your hair gal pal). SO without further adieu, MELODY COKER ON 10 THINGS YOUR HAIRSTYLIST WISHES YOU KNEW….

1. Being late to your appointment is actually a big deal.
More specifically if you show up 15 or more minutes late, we will run behind the rest of the day and we have more people after you to take care of. Hairstylists typically work on 15 minute intervals which is why showing up “late” is actually a big deal. So plan ahead and be on time to your appointment.

2. Texting or scrolling on your phone is totally okay. Taking a phone call…not so much.
When you take a phone call during your service it makes it more challenging for us to do our job. We do not want to work around your phone and it takes time away from us finishing your service, and the last thing we want to do is sound rude and tell you to put it away.

3. Be HONEST about your hair history!
Being honest about what color/chemical services, previous cuts, and past/current products you use is crucial information that hairstylists need to know! We don't care that you boxed dyed your hair at home last month, we need you to tell us so that we can set up realistic expectations and goals for your hair journey with us. False or withheld information about your hair can jeopardize your hair.

4. Not everyone can have the same color transformation as Kim Kardashian.
This meaning that not everyone can be platinum blonde - or some other unrealistic expectation. Sure Kim K manages to rock it, but she also spends well over $3k to get that look, spending half or more of her day to achieve it. We want to make you happy, but a hairstylist’s main concern is not your feelings - it is the integrity of your hair that we care most about in this situation. So it’s not us trying to be mean or tell you false information, because trust me the stylist that told you she can give you that look in one day for less than $250 is lying. Setting realistic expectations for your hair is so important.

5. You truly do get what you pay for!
​A good quality hairstyle isn't always cheap. Understand that we as stylists apprehend having a beauty budget, however, going “cheap” is never worth it and you end up paying more for it later to have it fixed by a good quality stylist. If you need to have a set beauty budget, just ask your stylist what options you have - believe me we would be happy to discuss that with you. There is a reason things cost as much as they do. A good stylist puts in the time and continuing education to ensure the greatest quality and results for all guests.


6. No-Showing your appointment actually hurts us financially.
When a stylist doesn't have a guest in their chair, they do not get paid. This is why no-showing or canceling last minute is one of the worst things you can do to your stylist. When this happens there is no way to get that spot filled with something else, and most likely we have already configured how much we were going to make that day to add it to our paycheck. Literally having a person in our chair is our bread and butter. Most salons now send reminders of your appointment by either text, call or email a few says prior giving you plenty of opportunities to reschedule ahead of time if need be. As soon as you know you won’t make it in, call and reschedule - don't just assume we are still getting paid.


7. Why is pre-booking so important?
Pre-booking is imperative and we stylists will stress the issue with you often because you are not guaranteed your next appointment at a time that works best for you! It is always best to schedule your next one to two appointments before you leave to ensure proper care for your hair and so we as stylists can maximize our time together, versus “trying to squeeze you in” and everyone getting stressed out about it.


8. Yes, we are also therapist. No, we do not mind it.
We love to hear about your life and want you to have a safe place to discuss your life events. Or even if you just want some quiet “me” time while getting pampered. We are here for you and want you to know that if you need advice, a sounding board, or for us to be quiet - we love that you want to share those things with us.


9. Should I tip my stylist?
If you were satisfied, absolutely you should! Your stylist worked very hard to make sure you look and feel your best. How much you ask? Truthfully the average is anywhere from 15-25% of the total service received. Entirely your call on how you want to deliver that! The real secret to tipping: it pays to take care of your stylist. Honestly, when you tip well and take care of your stylist - you get more perks because we will go above and beyond for you!


10. The dirty secret to good hair products…
Many people wonder why hairstylists try to get you to go home with that fancy shampoo and those styling products. Reason being is NOT because we are trying to make more money off of you. As a matter of fact we make very little from product sales. We want you to leave with those good quality products because we believe in the product and want what is best for you and your hair. Believe it or not, but buying the good quality products from your stylist make your expensive color job last SO MUCH LONGER. Even if you don't get color at all, that shampoo your stylist suggested for you is what she believes will be best for your hair in order for your hair to look its best. (P.S. the drug/grocery store does not know what is best for your hair). After all, why would you not invest in the products that will keep your hair healthy and at its best when you just invested in a luxury service?

We hope you've enjoyed these tips, tricks, secrets, and suggestions about all the things for your next visit to the salon! Hope you have a great & happy hair day :)