For most people, hair is a major extension of their personality. A great hairstyle can boost your confidence and turn any bad around. On the other hand, one negative salon experience can create some serious fears and phobias of landing in the wrong chair. Just like you would want to know your doctor has a good education, the same goes with your stylist. Here we will discuss how to make sure you are in the hands of a good stylist.
One might think that experience equals skill or understanding. This can be true but do not be so quick to write off a less seasoned stylist. While there is nothing that can replace experience, there is something to be said for a newer stylist who has a new found love for hair and that fire of desire to create. A major factor in choosing a stylist is education. A strong foundation is what creates a deep understanding of the geometry of cutting hair and the chemistry of coloring hair. Each state has their own regulations and guidelines of how many hours of cosmetology training is necessary to receive your license. Your stylist should always have their current license displayed at their station or at least in the salon. In addition to completing a cosmetology program, you want to make sure that your stylist is still investing into their career by attending classes or hair shows. Whether the stylist has been doing hair for 20 years or 6 months, on going education and recent training is always important. It will help them stay up to date with the latest trends but also show that they are still passionate about learning about hair.
While everyone loves a good deal, it is definitely true that you get what you pay for. Be weary of salons that are super active on coupon sites or offer up deep discounts. Generally, successful salons don't need to participate in these types of sales because they already have full clientele books. If that leaves you wondering where you should look for a great salon, try asking your friends, or better yet some who's style inspires you. If someone has a great stylist, usually they love them and love talking about them and sharing them. This is the age of the internet and social media and no one is hard to find. When asking someone who their hairstylist is, they might not always have a business card for them but they probably have some contact information for the salon or stylist via social media.
So you were referred to a stylist, you've checked out their social media and they show that they have been to recent trainings and have a variety of fierce looks posted on their page. So far everything is checking out, but to take it one step further, set up a consultation. This should be a ten to twenty min meet and greet appointment, where you can discuss your hair history, your hair challenges, and your hair goals. Its a great way for you to get to see the demeanor of the stylist as well as the overall vibe of the salon but even better, it gives the stylist a chance to get to know your hair better and develop a game plan of how to make your hair goals come true.
Change can be a beautiful thing but it can be equally nerve racking. Putting your trust in someone to care for your hair can be scary but it doesn't have to be. Do your homework and don't commit to anything until you feel comfortable. Remember that a good stylist is going to give you a hairstyle that will fit with your face shape, skin tones/eye color, your daily lifestyle and your level of maintenance. Once you find your stylist, don't let them go. Prebook your future appointments to make sure you get a good time that works for you, and share your experience with all your friends and family. There is no greater compliment for a stylist than a referral!
