Visiting a hairdresser is not just about getting a haircut or styling your hair—it’s also about creating a respectful interaction with your stylist. While most clients strive to be polite, hairdressers find certain habits challenging to deal with. Here, we’ll explore 15 common etiquette mistakes that hairdressers dislike, along with practical tips on enhancing your salon experience and fostering a harmonious relationship with your stylist.
Being Late Without Notice
One of the most common grievances among hairdressers is clients who arrive late for their appointments without giving any prior notice. This not only disrupts the stylist’s schedule but also affects other clients who may be waiting. Whenever possible, arrive on time for your appointment, and if you anticipate being delayed, call the salon in advance.
Not Communicating Clearly
Some clients struggle to articulate their preferences, leaving the stylist to guess or interpret their wishes. To prevent misunderstandings, come prepared with specific ideas, photos, or descriptions of the look you want to achieve. Be open to your stylist’s suggestions and provide constructive feedback.
Bringing a Large Entourage
While it’s natural to seek the opinion of friends or family members when getting a haircut, bringing a large entourage to the salon can be overwhelming for the stylist and other clients. Limit the number of companions you bring along and ensure they respect the salon’s space and ambiance. Remember, the focus should be on you and your stylist’s consultation.
Constantly Moving Your Head
Hairdressing is a precise craft that requires concentration and attention to detail. Constantly moving your head or fidgeting in the chair makes it challenging for the stylist to work efficiently and may result in uneven cuts or styling. Try to remain still during the appointment and follow your stylist’s instructions for positioning your head as needed.
Using Your Phone Excessively
Constantly scrolling through messages or taking phone calls disrupts the flow of the appointment and prevents effective communication. While checking your phone briefly during your salon visit is acceptable, using it excessively can be perceived as disrespectful to your stylist. Consider silencing your phone or limiting its use to emergencies only to show respect for your stylist’s time and expertise.
Micromanaging the Process
While it’s important to communicate your preferences clearly, micromanaging every aspect of the hairstyling process can be counterproductive and frustrating for your stylist. Trust in your stylist’s expertise and allow them the creative freedom to execute your desired look. Offer feedback and guidance when necessary, but avoid questioning every decision they make.
Criticizing Other Clients’ Looks
Engaging in gossip or openly criticizing other clients’ hairstyles or appearances is unprofessional and disrespectful to both your stylist and fellow patrons. Keep conversations positive and focused on topics that foster a friendly and welcoming atmosphere in the salon. Remember, everyone has different tastes and preferences when it comes to hair and beauty.
Arriving with Dirty Hair
Arriving at the salon with dirty or unwashed hair can make it difficult for the stylist to work with and may affect the outcome of your hairstyle. Follow any pre-appointment instructions provided by the salon, such as washing your hair the night before or arriving with clean, dry hair. This ensures optimal results and a smoother styling process for both you and your stylist.
Neglecting Personal Hygiene
Maintaining good personal hygiene is essential when visiting a salon, as you’ll be in close proximity to your stylist for an extended period. It’s important that you’re clean and freshly showered before your appointment, and avoid wearing strong perfumes or fragrances that may overwhelm others in the salon. Additionally, be mindful of your breath and dental hygiene to ensure a neat experience for everyone involved.
Underestimating the Time Required
Some clients underestimate the time required for their desired hairstyle, leading to rushed or incomplete results. Be realistic about the time needed for your appointment, especially for complex treatments or significant changes to your hair. Consult with your stylist beforehand to determine an appropriate timeframe and schedule accordingly to avoid feeling rushed or dissatisfied with the outcome.
Not Tipping Appropriately
Tipping is a customary practice and is greatly appreciated by hairdressers as a gesture of gratitude for their services. While tipping percentages may vary, a standard guideline is to tip between 15% and 20% of the total service cost, depending on the quality of service provided. If you’re unsure about tipping etiquette, don’t hesitate to ask your stylist or the salon receptionist for guidance
Ignoring Salon Policies
Salons often have specific policies regarding appointments, cancellations, and payment methods to ensure smooth operations and fair treatment for all clients. Familiarize yourself with the salon’s policies before your appointment and adhere to them accordingly. This includes respecting cancellation deadlines, honoring appointment times, and following payment procedures to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts.
Constantly Changing Your Mind
While it’s normal to have some degree of uncertainty about your hairstyle, constantly changing your mind or requesting last-minute alterations can be disruptive and frustrating for your stylist. Take the time to discuss your preferences and desired outcomes during the consultation phase, and trust in your stylist’s expertise to deliver results that meet your expectations.
Not Providing Feedback
Feedback is essential for hairdressers to improve their skills and better understand their clients’ needs and preferences. If you’re satisfied with the service provided, don’t hesitate to express your appreciation and leave a positive review. Similarly, if you have any concerns or constructive criticism, address them respectfully with your stylist to foster open communication and ensure future visits are more enjoyable.
Skipping Regular Appointments
Skipping regular appointments or waiting too long between visits can lead to issues such as split ends, uneven growth, or faded color. Work with your stylist to establish a personalized maintenance schedule based on your hair type, texture, and styling goals, and prioritize regular salon visits to keep your hair looking its best.
