Ever walk out of the salon feeling like a million bucks, only to wonder if you were a “good” client? We’ve all been there! We mean well—you really do. You want to be the dream client, the one who’s nice, polite, easygoing, and considerate. But sometimes, those seemingly innocent habits we pick up can actually make things a little harder for our amazing stylists. It’s like trying to help someone make a cake by adding five different, delicious recipes – great intentions, messy outcome!
Beauty appointments are at the top of my self-care list, and the salon is truly a blend of professionalism and socializing. It’s that glorious escape where magic happens to our manes. But as it turns out, even the best of us might be committing some tiny, unspoken salon no-nos that our stylists would *secretly* prefer we stop doing. Think of this as your friendly guide to becoming the salon client your stylist truly loves, because who doesn’t want to stay in their hairdresser’s good graces?
From hair wash woes to pre-appointment blunders, we’re diving deep into the sometimes-surprising truths about salon etiquette. We’ve chatted with master stylists and salon owners to get the inside scoop on what really goes on behind those perfectly coiffed smiles. So, grab a comfy seat (but not *too* comfy, we’ll get to that!), and let’s uncover the first seven client tendencies that might be raising an eyebrow or two at your next appointment. Prepare for some ‘aha!’ moments that will make you a salon MVP!
1. **Apologizing Excessively**”I’m so sorry, my hair is a disaster!” Stop right there. It’s a phrase many of us utter as soon as we settle into the salon chair, a nervous preamble to the hair transformation about to unfold. We think we’re being humble, perhaps even empathetic to the monumental task our stylist faces.
However, what feels like a polite disclaimer can actually make things a little awkward. Your stylist has, truly, seen it all – “from knots to DIY dye jobs and even weirder stuff, and they don’t care,” as the experts put it. They’re professionals, not judges, and their primary goal is to solve your hair woes, not to critique your starting point. “Apologizing repeatedly only makes things awkward,” they reveal, which is something we definitely want to avoid.
Instead of dwelling on perceived flaws, the best thing you can do is articulate your desires clearly and concisely. Rather than lengthy apologies or disclaimers, simply “describe what you want and let them work.” This clear communication allows your stylist to jump straight into problem-solving, making the appointment more efficient and enjoyable for everyone involved. Your hair is their canvas, and they’re ready to create, not to be placated!
2. **Coming In With Dirty Hair**Raise your hand if you’ve ever heard the myth that dirty hair holds color better or makes styling easier! It’s a tale as old as time, passed down through generations of salon-goers. For many, arriving with unwashed hair feels like a strategic move, ensuring the best possible outcome for their new ‘do.
But here’s the salon truth bomb: in reality, “oily roots and product buildup can prevent dye from processing evenly.” Yikes! That perfectly blended balayage or vibrant new hue could be at risk simply because of lingering dry shampoo or last night’s styling cream. Unwashed strands can also “make precision cuts tricky,” turning a straightforward snip into a complex puzzle for your stylist.
Stanimir Hristov, a salon owner, explains, “There’s a reason why the hair needs to be professionally washed in the salon before any given procedure.” He adds, “I can’t guarantee that the customer has washed their hair properly at home so would prefer to do it myself for best results!” Unless your stylist explicitly tells you otherwise – perhaps for an updo that benefits from a little grit – a fresh, clean canvas is always preferred. Giovanny Jorge, master stylist, even questions, “Yes your service begins with a wash, but seriously,” regarding clients who come in post-gym. “I don’t think you need a reminder, but you might want to take a shower after your gym or pilates session out of courtesy for your hairdresser!” So, ditch the myth and come clean!
3. **Being Too Vague About What You Want**Imagine walking into a restaurant and telling the chef, “Just make me whatever you think is best!” Sounds liberating, right? In the salon, the equivalent is sitting down and saying, “Do whatever you think is best,” and then, well, silently expecting magic. While the sentiment behind this might be a desire to empower your stylist, it often leaves them feeling a bit lost in the follicular wilderness.
A stylist, even a brilliant one, “needs more than that.” They are not mind-readers, no matter how many years of experience they have. While they possess incredible technical skills and an artistic eye, they can’t possibly know your personal style, daily routine, or hidden hair dreams without some guidance. Offering such a broad instruction can lead to a result that’s technically perfect but entirely wrong for *you*.
“Give clear directions, please,” stylists urge. Even a little direction goes a long way. “Even a little guidance like ‘I like layers’ or ‘Keep the length’ helps them create something you’ll actually love.” Jean Marc Durante, stylist and co-creator of Red Market Miami Salon, states, “We always encourage our clients to give as many details as possible with how they want their hair to be cut, colored, and/or styles.” It’s a collaborative process, and your input is invaluable in ensuring you walk out with the hair of your dreams, not just ‘whatever they thought was best.’
4. **Bringing A Million Different-Looking Reference Photos**Let’s go back to that cake analogy for a second. You wouldn’t bring “five cake recipes to a baker and ask for one dessert,” would you? Yet, in the salon world, stylists often “get bombarded with conflicting reference photos all the time.” We’ve all been guilty of this, scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram and finding a dozen gorgeous looks, all subtly (or not-so-subtly) different, and presenting them as a single, cohesive vision.
The problem, as stylists gently point out, is that “not all beautiful styles can work with each other.” One photo might feature soft, face-framing layers, while the next showcases a blunt, dramatic bob. One might be a warm honey blonde, and another an icy platinum. These conflicting images don’t help your stylist; they confuse them, making it incredibly difficult to pinpoint what you truly desire from your appointment.
The key is curation. Instead of a visual smorgasbord, “choose one or two clear examples that align with your hair type and face shape.” These focused images give your stylist a concrete starting point, allowing for a more productive consultation. They can then advise on what’s achievable, what will best suit you, and how to blend elements if necessary, ensuring your final look is coherent and, most importantly, something you absolutely adore.
5. **Not Speaking Up When You’re Unhappy**Your stylist genuinely wants you to love your hair! They dedicate their time and skill to making you feel fabulous. So, if something “feels off—length, layers, color, anything—mention it during the appointment.” This might feel uncomfortable, like you’re being impolite or critical, but stylists universally prefer direct, polite feedback in the moment.
Think about it: “It’s much easier to adjust while in the chair than to fix it days later.” A quick snip here, a tone adjustment there, a slight restyle – these are simple tweaks when you’re still in the hot seat. Waiting until you get home, mulling it over, and then calling days later creates a more complex and often more stressful situation for both you and the salon. “A quick, polite comment saves stress for both of you. Don’t wait until you get home.”
Jean Marc Durante notes how frustrating it is “When completing a cut or color based on an inspiration photo, the client says they ‘wanted to go a different direction’ – but only tells us once the service is completed.” “Understandably, you don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, but addressing the issue in the moment is better than complaining to the receptionist or contacting the salon later.” Stylists can’t read minds, and they’d much rather address a concern directly than have an unhappy client walk out the door, even if that client tries to be ‘polite’ by staying silent. Your honesty empowers them to ensure your satisfaction.
6. **Trying To Help By Tilting Your Head Or Lifting Your Hair / Not Sitting Still**Ah, the client who wants to be a co-pilot! You might think you’re being helpful by tilting your head, lifting your hair, or trying to guide the scissors. It’s a natural instinct to try and assist, especially when something feels slightly unfamiliar. However, this seemingly helpful gesture can actually be quite counterproductive for your stylist.
As the experts firmly advise, “Sit still, relax, and let them do their job.” Why? Because “every angle matters, and small movements mess with precision.” Whether it’s a careful cut, delicate foils, or a precise blow-dry, your stylist is working with extreme attention to detail. “You think you’re helping, but you’re throwing off their technique.” Think of the “hair flipper,” who keeps tossing their hair back, making the hairdresser “have to start over each time like a tufty tug-of-war.” Or the “bobblehead” clients who “constantly move their heads while talking” while a stylist is trying to keep them still.
This also applies to head movements during washing or drying. Leanne Lee, a Timely ambassador, states, “when we ask you to look down, it’s for good reason.” She warns, “If your head suddenly takes on a mind of its own and suddenly becomes as rebellious as a teenager past curfew, we risk turning your haircut into an accidental ear-piercing session.” The “blow-dry wiggle” and the “chatty neck-turner” are also big no-nos. The best advice? “Let go and trust the stylist and the process. They know how to position your head for the perfect cut.” Just breathe, relax, and let the magic happen!
7. **Asking For A Lot On A Tight Schedule**Ever walked into a drive-thru, ordered a gourmet five-course meal, and expected it in minutes? It sounds ridiculous, right? Yet, in the salon, clients sometimes book “a 30-minute slot but ask for a wash, a full balayage, a layered cut, and a blowout.” This scenario, as stylists candidly explain, “is like expecting a gourmet five-course meal in a drive-thru lane.” It’s simply not feasible.
Salons operate on tight schedules, with appointments carefully choreographed to ensure each client receives the attention and time they deserve. “A few minutes might not seem like a big deal, but in a tightly booked salon, it throws everything off,” creating a “domino effect of issues that can often be hard to catch up on,” according to Jean Marc Durante. Springing a last-minute request, like “adding a root touch-up and trim to a simple blow-dry appointment at the last second,” can completely derail the entire day’s schedule.
The consequence of this ambitious scheduling? A “rushed job won’t give you the flawless results you hope for.” Neither you nor your stylist will be happy with a hurried, compromised service. The solution is simple: “Be honest about your time constraints” and, more importantly, be realistic about what can be achieved in the time you’ve booked. To ensure the best experience possible, plan ahead and communicate all desired services during booking. As Leanne Lee concludes, “use our online booking in advance for all the pampering—we’ll make sure you leave looking fabulous!” It ensures that your stylist can dedicate the proper time to your transformation, leaving you with results that truly make you shine.
Alright, salon fam! We’ve unpacked some of those surprising habits that can make your stylist’s day a little less breezy. But trust us, the wisdom doesn’t stop there! There are even more ways we can level up our client game and ensure every salon visit is a harmonious masterpiece for everyone involved. Think of it as fine-tuning your client superpowers!
Now, let’s dive into seven more client tendencies that, while often well-intentioned, can throw a wrench into salon harmony. We’re talking communication quirks, time-management missteps, and sometimes, even stepping a little too close to the stylist’s creative turf. Get ready for more ‘aha!’ moments that will cement your status as a salon MVP and keep you in your hairdresser’s good graces!
8. **Over-Thanking With Gifts Instead Of Tipping**We all love showing appreciation, especially when our stylist works magic on our hair. Giving a thoughtful gift, like a scented candle or a small trinket, feels like a warm, personal gesture. It’s a way of saying ‘thank you’ that goes beyond words, and who doesn’t appreciate a little something extra?
However, in the bustling world of salons, while a gift is sweet, it doesn’t quite hit the same mark as a tip. Stylists, like many service professionals, rely on monetary appreciation as a standard part of their livelihood. It’s the industry’s way of acknowledging their skill, time, and dedication, and it directly contributes to their income.
The experts are clear: “A strong, consistent tip shows you value what they do.” It’s a direct reflection of how much you appreciate their hard work and the beautiful results they deliver. So, next time you’re feeling extra grateful, consider a generous tip – it truly means the world and helps your stylist feel genuinely valued for their craft.
9. **Arriving Early**Okay, so we’ve already chatted about how being late can totally derail a stylist’s day, creating a domino effect of delays. But what about swinging by a little *too* early? You might think you’re being super considerate, giving your stylist extra time to prep or ensuring you don’t miss a beat.
But here’s the unexpected truth: “While this is so much better than being late or not showing up, it still puts an unnecessary amount of pressure on the hairstylist to finish up with the previous customer,” explains Stanimir Hristov, a salon owner. It’s like standing over someone’s shoulder while they’re trying to wrap up a task – a little awkward and a lot of pressure.
Stylists often schedule buffer times, not just for catching up, but for crucial breaks, administrative tasks, or even just a moment to breathe between clients. Seeing an early client waiting can make them feel like they can’t utilize that precious window. Hristov suggests, “just get there on time to avoid that awkward wait!” So, aim for right on the dot, or give a quick call ahead to see if they’re truly ready for you.
10. **Chatting Without Considering The Stylist’s Preference**The salon chair is a magical place where transformations happen, and often, so do incredible conversations! Many of us love a good chat with our stylist, spilling secrets, sharing laughs, or simply enjoying some friendly banter. It’s part of the human connection that makes salon visits so much fun.
But here’s the thing: just as every client has a preference for silence or endless chatter, so do stylists. Some are natural talkers who thrive on conversation, while others prefer to focus intensely on their craft, letting their work speak for itself. The trick is to tune into their vibe. If they seem engaged and chatty, awesome! If they’re more focused, offering brief responses, it might be a cue to enjoy a moment of quiet relaxation.
Renae Miller, founder of Alternative Hair, spills a relatable peeve: “One of my biggest peeves is knowing I’m at the salon all day and it’s a beautiful day… every client comes in stating, ‘It’s such a beautiful day! You should get out and enjoy it!'” While the sentiment is innocent, for someone stuck indoors, it can feel a little like rubbing it in. Salon interactions are best when both parties subtly adjust to each other’s conversational rhythm.
11. **Acting Like An Armchair Stylist / Over-Controlling**You’re in the chair, and your stylist is doing their thing. You’ve got an idea in your head, and maybe you’ve even brought a reference photo (just one or two, right?). But sometimes, the desire to ensure a perfect outcome can morph into a full-on ‘armchair stylist’ situation, where you’re practically giving a step-by-step tutorial on how to hold the scissors or mix the color.
This, my friends, is one of the most nerve-wracking things a client can do. Giovanny Jorge, master stylist, admits, “The most nerve-wrecking thing a client can do while they are in the chair is constantly second guess what the stylist is doing or changing their minds about their service.” Stylists are professionals who have spent years honing their craft. They possess the knowledge and tools to bring your hair dreams to life.
Jean Marc Durante, stylist and co-creator of Red Market Miami Salon, echoes this sentiment: “We always encourage our clients to give as many details as possible with how they want their hair to be cut, colored, and/or styles, but directing the service and telling the hairstylist exactly how to do their hair in step-by-step format is unnecessary when seeing a professional.” It essentially tells your stylist, “I don’t quite trust your expertise,” which can be incredibly frustrating.
They appreciate your direction, as it’s *your* look, but critiquing and instructing them on *how* to reach the end goal is beyond frustrating. As Durante wisely points out, “Quite frankly, we have spent years handling requests and know exactly how to achieve your desired look based on the tools we’ve gathered throughout the years.” Trust the process, and let their skills shine!
Phew! We’ve taken a deep dive into the fascinating, sometimes-surprising world of salon client etiquette. It turns out that becoming a truly ‘good’ client isn’t about being perfectly silent or never having an opinion, but rather about thoughtful communication, respecting boundaries, and trusting the amazing professionals who make us look and feel our best. By keeping these tips in mind, you’re not just getting a great haircut or color; you’re building a fantastic, lasting relationship with your stylist, ensuring every visit is a win-win for everyone in the salon! So go forth, fabulous clients, and keep shining – inside and out!”
