A good stylist is a fountain of knowledge. They’ve seen it all before and usually know what your hair needs to look incredible. But, unless your hairstylist is related to you, they might not always be completely honest. After all, it’s a cutthroat world out there and they want you to leave with a smile on your face and every intention of returning for regular trims. Let's take a look behind the curtain to find out the juiciest secrets your hairstylist isn't telling you.
1. The Client Isn’t Always Right
You know the old saying, "The customer's always right?" Yeah, that doesn't fly at hair salons. From what hair color looks best on you to which cut best suits your jawline, your hair decisions should be left in the hands of the person who knows your hair best. Of course, it’s okay to let them know about your hair and its quirks, but there might be a reason why a certain style just won’t fit, why long hair can look great for your thin hair, or why short hair may not help you look younger. Remember, they’ve seen your face shape and hair type in many other clients before. Trust in the process, and listen to your hairstylist's advice - you won’t regret it.
You wouldn't tell the surgeon what to do on the operating table, right? Well, your stylist is in, and they can see you now.
2. It’s Not Always Picture-Perfect
Have you ever walked out of the salon wondering why you don’t look exactly like Rachel from Friends, Jenna Ortega's Wednesday, or Lucero, even though you showed your stylist a perfect picture of her hair on your phone? The thing is, you’re not them, and that’s okay! You have your own unique hair story, face shape, and complexion - all of which contribute to the way a hairstyle ends up looking. Pictures may paint a thousand words, but they don’t tell the whole story, and even great hair and the latest trends won't look the same on everyone.
3. They Often Specialize
From cardiologists to influencers, specialists exist in all walks of life, and hairstylists are no different. Before you choose a new stylist, check out reviews online or read personal bios on the salon's website. Doing your due diligence should inform you about what type of hair they specialize in, and if you’re a good match. Of course, most stylists can do a good job on most hair types, but there will be some who have more experience or training with your hair texture, with curly hair, hair color, or techniques like a professional blowout. If you’re happy with how the appointment went, be sure to leave a review yourself to help others find their new favorite stylist.
4. What They Do Is Not as Easy as It Looks
Sometimes, the secret to great hair is that it looks effortless. And there are stylists who make a good haircut look effortless, too. But before you reach for the scissors instead of booking an appointment, take a breath and think it through. Yes, it will be cheaper, but at what cost? You could end up with unwanted bangs, a mullet, or worse! The way your hairdresser glides through your hair may look easy, but it really isn’t. A hairstylist’s hand-scissors coordination is the result of countless hours of training and practice. The best people in the business are true masters of their craft and should be treated as such. And by the way, that applies to "just a trim" as well as a completely new 'do. A simple trim still requires skill and precision, and an understanding of what works for you.
5. Swerve Saturdays
Saturdays are the busiest day at the salon, which is why your stylist will probably be in some sort of trance by the time you walk in the door. Don’t expect the usual pleasantries because they have another client due in 10 minutes and a nice chat about your dog’s new collar is standing in the way of more tips. Instead, book an appointment during the week for a comparatively serene experience away from the Saturday crowds.
6. Honesty Is the Best Policy
Hairstylists can read your hair like a book. They’ll know within seconds if your hair care routine is working for you or against you. However, they’re not mind readers. If your cut isn’t going to plan and you’re unhappy with something, you need to let them know rather than walking out the door, cursing their name and never returning. And that goes for everything from the hair products they're using to how your 'do is shaping up.
7. Don't Show Up With Dirty Hair
You might have heard that you shouldn't wash your hair the night before your salon appointment. But your stylist really doesn't want to handle smelly or greasy hair, or hair that's full of styling products. Clean hair also tends to produce a better haircut because clean, dry hair is ready to be styled. Make your hair and your hairstylist happy by washing with Lu, but don’t add any other product so that he or she can better manage your hair.
8. This Job Takes a Toll
Who among us hasn't complained about our jobs at one time or another, either to coworkers or friends? For stylists, those complaints can include crippling joint pain, aches in their feet, arms, and back, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, even migraines and other health problems from exposure to harsh chemicals in the long run. Like the pros they are, they will smile through it all and give you the best haircut they can. But know that hairdressing can be grueling work.
The best tips we can offer for you when it comes to getting your haircut and styled is to trust in the people who are trained to know what will suit your face shape, skin tone, and style.
