How to Leave the Salon with a Smile!

Most women of color invest a lot of time and energy into their hair and it seems that once you begin your healthy hair journey, that amount is exponentially increased – along with investing more money as well.  We go through a product junkie phase, purchasing quality products and tools (new dryer, flat iron*, curling irons*, steamer*, etc), and sometimes upgrading or changing our stylist.

Some ladies are complete DIY’ers, doing everything from coloring and relaxing to trims and weaves*.  Personally, I enjoy doing my weekly styles myself and have even indulged in the world of self-installation weaves* but prefer to leave chemical services and trims to the professionals.  Since I am not a native to the city in which I currently reside that means that I had to find a hair care professional suitable for my needs, which can be a very frustrating task.  Whether you are looking for a new stylist or even just visiting for a one-time service, here are my suggestions on how to be satisfied with your visit.

 1. Be clear on pricing.  Ask up front about the service you want done and inquire whether it includes “extras” in the price.  For example, if you want a shampoo and style, ask if it includes a deep conditioning session.  Is the style only for a blow-dry and curl or does it include rollersets and updos also?

Be specific about exactly what you want done.  During the service if the stylist suggests something, ask if there is an additional charge.  I once visited a salon for a wash and set and I asked if there was an additional charge for deep conditioning* up front, which there was.

While washing my hair, the stylist described a special “smoothing treatment” and thought it would be great for my hair.  I mistakenly assumed it was part of the deep conditioning* I had requested and agreed only to later find out that it was an additional $15!

Although I am willing to pay for quality service, let’s be honest…we all live on a budget and do not like to be surprised or feel we’re being taken advantage of at the salon.

2. Explain your hair goals.  I know we don’t normally elaborate on ALL we do with our hair to the general inquirer for fear of sounding obsessed, but it is important that you explain your journey to your potential stylist.  Let them know that you are working very hard to get (or keep) your hair healthy and you are on a mission to grow it long.

I mention that I do not like to use direct heat at home, explain that moisture is the most important thing for my hair, and that I am looking for someone who understands and shares my vision for my hair.  Why?  Because if they understand just how important my hair is to me and how excellent my own hair care practices are, they dare NOT give me a “trim” that is really a cut, they seem to take extra precautions when detangling and handling my hair, and they are certain to be sure that I am satisfied with my service.  This is a common principle, when you feel your work is appreciated, you give your best.

3. Ask about their hair care practices.  I ask the service(s) they perform the most.  If the answer is color or cuts, they probably are not the person for me since I visit the salon for rollersets and relaxer touch ups.  I ask they type of hair they feel most comfortable with – white, black, relaxed, natural?
Do they do any continuing education?  THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT!  One of the fastest ways to have a setback at the salon is visiting a stylist whose practices are stuck in the 80s!

Do they still base the scalp with oil sheen only prior to a relaxer touch up?  Do they believe in greasing the hair with Blue Magic before pressing it?  Are they uninformed about sulfate free shampoos and pH balanced products?

I find that the stylists who take classes to keep their skills current and frequent hair shows to find out about the latest tools and products are usually superior to those who got their certification and never looked back.

4. Speak up and ask questions.  Ask what products they will be using on your hair.  If they begin to rip through your hair from the root, nicely but firmly ask that they detangle gently starting from the ends of your hair.  I have stopped a stylist during flat-ironing to request that they use a heat protectant*.  I’ve requested that they not use as much setting lotion or foam during a rollerset and explained that it makes my hair dryer* than I would like.

You are paying for the service so you should get exactly what you want.  You cannot expect your hairdresser to read your mind if you are dissatisfied, so instead of sitting there grinding your teeth with your fists clenched tight during your service – just speak up and everybody will be happier!

5. Be a good client.  Arrive on time for your appointment, speak politely about what you would like to have done and tip well.  If you plan on returning to the salon, let them know!  I only visit my stylist for touch-ups, which may be anywhere from two to five times per year.  After my first visit, in which I was very pleased – I let her know that I would become a regular but that my budget only allows me to visit for relaxers.  She never expected to see me every two weeks, but when she does – I can tell that I get her best.