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?
T. says
I once had a stylist that said sulfate free shampoos are bad for relaxed hair because it strips the hair. I agree with Shaniqua43 I ‘m afraid that my stylist would hate me. Another stylist I use likes to comb my 14 week new growth with a small tooth comb, and I just sit there and imagine all my hard work of stretching going up in flames. 🙁