Finding the right stylist!

Wow!  I remember ALWAYS being in search for that "right" stylist!  Even when I found one I really liked, I always seemed to see a friends hair and say "I wish my stylist could do that to my hair!"  Here are some helpful tips.


1.  If you are impatient and wait til the last minute, then you more than likely won't get in with a more experienced stylist unless you just LUCK UP and they have a cancellation.  So BE CAREFUL about waiting to the last minute and being impatient.  If you just "HAVE to have your hair cut THAT DAY", then you will get what you pay for!  Most stylists that have experience do have a steady stream of loyal customers who don't want to miss out on their time and cherish their stylist and they are willing to wait a day or two or sometimes even a week to get in with their stylist!!  Book ahead for your cut or color.

2.  If you go to a new place, look for the State Board Inspection & Citation Report.  (My Score has never been less than a 100)  It is REQUIRED to be displayed for the public to see.  If it's not visible, ask to see it.  You can see what state board has found the salon in violation for.  (ex. contamination, disinfection problems, etc.)


3.  Look to see if the stylist is licensed or student.  If they are a student then there has to be a managing Cosmetologist on duty.  Ask how much experience the student has.  Some people don't feel comfortable with a student cutting their hair.  Some are fine with it.  But the public has a right to know.


4.  Once you get to the chair, make sure the stylist ask questions that make you feel comfortable.  "Are we changing styles today?"  "Do you want me to trim and how much?"  Make sure the stylist shows you how much before they make the initial cut if it's a new stylist just to put you at ease.  If you are changing styles they need to ask "How much time do you spend on your hair?"  and questions about styling products and tools, etc.  If they don't ask these types of questions then there is a break down in a communication and you will more than likely be dissatisfied with your style.


5.  Ask your stylist questions!  If the stylist isn't aware you aren't understanding what he/she is talking about then they may just go on to the next step in the process and you may not be happy with the service.  Or maybe it's still that break down in communication, stop the stylist and ask what you are concerned about.


6.  Find out about the products or chemicals BEFORE the stylist puts them on your hair.  Don't wait until after the process.  If you are concerned about damage, please bring those concerns up first and allow the stylist to address them.  If the stylist can't tell you about the ingredients or color or product he/she is about to use then stop the process from going any further.  Find another stylist to perform the color or chemical process.  You want to be sure your hair is kept safe!!


7.  Just because a stylist is expensive doesn't necessarily mean they are the best!!  You may just be paying for atmosphere.  Keep that in mind.  Stylist who aren't in a Franchise can set their own price.  Just because a stylist is affordable doesn't mean they aren't skilled.  Maybe they are catering to all levels of society.  

8.  If you have a special event coming up, pre-book.  You won't be the only girl going to that homecoming dance, prom or pageant; so get the jump!!  Be the smart one and book way in advance and your stylist will appreciate it.  You two can communicate about what works with your face shape, hair texture, and dress.  It allows time for maybe a practice session or two.  You BOTH will benefit.  It's worth it!!  Pre-booking alleviates stress on you and the stylist.


Ask around about stylists.  Ask your friends about who does their hair.  If you do find a good hair stylist, keep a good line of communication with her and encourage him/her to stay up to date on the latest trends.  Alot of times stylists get burned out and that's when you see the stylist stop learning the new styles.  Sad, but true.