The relationship you form with your hairdresser can be one of the most intimate in your life so it's important to follow salon etiquette to get the most out of the relationship says John Brennan, founder of John Brennan Hair.
"We get a lot of questions from clients wanting to be sure they're doing all they should to ensure great service and great hair. A salon experience should be all about servicing the client. Their comfort and happiness should be top priority, and that all starts with communication," says Brennan.
"Provide the stylist with as much information about your hair as possible. Your stylist will ask what type of style you're after, what you like and dislike about your current style and the type of lifestyle that you lead. Explain in detail what kind of look you have in mind; photos are helpful too.
"Any information that the client can provide during the consultation process will ensure there is a greater understanding of the client's needs and wants.
"From here clients will be given advice on suitable styles for their face shape as well as how to style the hair themselves and which products will help them achieve the look."
Brennan's top etiquette tips include:
- Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time, so you can be gowned and chair-ready at the appointed hour.
- Try not to cancel within 24 hours of your appointment.
- Don't show up so sick that you're coughing throughout the haircut — this could be an occupational health and safety issue for both you and the stylist!
- Try not to be glued to your mobile phone — your body needs to be positioned correctly for a good haircut. Sit up and face forward — no hunching over.
- If your salon offers to sell you products, it's because they are the products that were used to get your style at the salon, and will help you recreate the look at home. If you're not interested, or they don't fit within your beauty budget then don't be afraid to say so. Your stylist can suggest alternatives or other ways of maintaining your style.
- If you feel like zoning out and not talking, that's no problem.
- If you're unhappy with the cut then speak up while still in the salon, that way the issue can be dealt with on the spot. Most stylists like you to 'wear' the new style for a week or two. If after this time you are still not happy then ring the salon and make an appointment to rectify the problem.
Brennan says a visit to the salon should be a totally pampering, stress-free experience therefore clients should be fully informed of the total cost of their service and an estimation of how long it will take.
"If your stylist does not provide this information during the initial consultation then it's completely appropriate to ask."
First 