Stylists List The 7 Dos and Donts Of Salon Ettiquette

The salon experience all comes down to how you interact with your stylist in a way that will make it enjoyable for both you and the hairstylist.

While most clients aim to be overly polite, it is not always necessary. In many cases, allow the stylist to lead the appointment, and you will be set up for success.

Here are 7 essential do’s and dont’s hairdressers would prefer clients avoid.

Timing is Everything

Showing up late leaves a negative impression, but arriving too early has the same unintended result. While it may seem courteous, arriving well before your appointment can put pressure on the stylist to rush their current client. 

Stylists’ schedules are intentionally tight; so it is best to arrive at your appointment time or a few minutes early. 

Additionally, it is also important to schedule appointments when your hair needs care, not too frequently and not too far apart.

Let the Stylist Lead

Hair professionals follow specific protocols when it comes to washing, cutting, and styling your hair for the best overall result. While offering to wash or blow-dry your hair might be considered helpful, being overly insistent might affect the final look. 

Instead, allow yourself to relax and enjoy being pampered, knowing you are in good hands.

Communicate Clearly

That said, communication is essential in the salon. While some people might feel uncomfortable or awkward asserting exactly what they want, expressing concerns, or simply suggesting how best to handle the care of your hair, a stylist can do a better job with clear communication.

Stylists often appreciate the opportunity to alleviate concerns or complaints during the appointment, rather than hearing complaints after the service is complete, which makes for a better experience for you and the stylist.

While it is normal not to want to hurt anyone’s feeling, it is better to communicate clearly in the moment to complain afterwards.

Find a balance, speak politely, and give clear direction about any areas of concerns or what cut, color, or style you want, and provide photo inspiration.

“Be prepared to really communicate with your stylist about what does and does not work for your hair,” said Liza Duncan, a hair stylist in Birmingham, Alabama, with Southern Living.

Respect the Stylists’ Station

Feeling comfortable at the salon is important; keep in mind that the hair products and tools displayed at the stylists’ station are for the stylist. The products used can affect the overall result, so allow your stylist the opportunity to choose how to proceed, and simply ask if you want an extra spritz of hairspray or shine.

Arrive with Clean Hair

Despite the persistent myth that dirty hair does not take color better so do not show up with dirty hair for the sake of fresh highlights or any dye service. Arriving with excessive buildup or unwashed hair can actually affect the coloring process, and it is not pleasant for the stylist themselves either. It is best to arrive without a ton of built-up product.

Be Mindful, Keep Conversations Appropriate

While salons are often associated with friendly chatter and gossip, stylists are not therapists or doctors. Keep conversations appropriate and trauma dumping to maintain a comfortable and enjoyable environment for both you and your stylist.

Don’t Interrupt the Service

Finally, do not let the desire to document your new hairstyle interrupt the styling process. Taking pictures is totally acceptable after the service is complete. Avoid attempting to get engaging content during the cutting or coloring process, and always ask permission before filming, especially if the stylist appears on camera. 

As with all etiquette rules, use your best judgment and remember that respect for you, your stylist, and the salon goes a long way.