Finding a new hairstylist can be extremely stressful. With so many hairstylists out there, how do you know who is right for you? It doesn’t need to be a daunting task. In fact there are several things you can do to take the stress out of the process entirely. In this post I created the ultimate step by step guide to finding a new hairstylist that is perfect for you, with confidence and ease.
Step 1: Decide what you want to do with your hair
This is the first step because every stylist has a different aesthetic and speciality. If you want your hair to be platinum, icy blonde you will look for a stylist who specializes in bleaches and blondes. If you prefer a soft and natural aesthetic, you will need a more minimalist hairstylist. You need to vibe with your stylist and share a vision. Going to a hairstylist with a totally different style to yours won’t put you at ease and make you feel comfortable.
While you are deciding what to do with your hair, it always helps to save some images you love for inspiration. A hairstylist will never be able to replicate a picture exactly, but it always helps to have some guidance and inspiration.
Step 2: Have a clear budget
Make sure that the salon you are selecting fits within your budget. More expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better but usually if it’s very cheap, you get what you pay for. Websites should be completely transparent about pricing. It is also very common for a color service to say ‘from £___’ and this is because the price of a service greatly differs depending on the thickness and length of the hair as well as the amount of color needed (ie: roots to ends vs just the roots)
When we get to step 6 (consultation) this is when you will be able to get a more accurate quote from the stylist once they see your hair and know exactly what work will need to be done. There are often extras such as toners or treatments that might be necessary so don’t be shy to talk about price!!
Step 3: Search Instagram
Instagram today is a hairstylists portfolio, and it is without a doubt the best way to find a new hairstylist in 2021. Search relevant hashtags, starting with location (eg #Londonhairstylist or #Belgraviahairstylist). You can then find hairstylists in your area and have a look at their page. Does their style match with yours? Do they seem knowledgeable and professional?
You can also use specific hashtags such as #londonbalayage or #londonhighlights to search for someone in your area who specializes with your aesthetic and needs. Check out their Instagram bio, this is where the hairstylist will say in a few short, concise words, what kind of work they love to do and what they specialize in. If you find someone you connect with, go ahead and send them a DM!
Step 4: Find out what products they use
If you are like me and prefer to use organic and sustainable products, this is a great opportunity to ask the stylist via DM what they use. If you have any allergies or preferences, don’t be shy to state them! The hairstylist will be happy to answer your questions.
If you like a specific brand of retail products or color lines, you can simply type into Google: “Hair salon near me Aveda” Salon websites will usually have a page dedicated to the stylists in the salon where you can read a bit about them and often link out to their socials to see who is best suited to your needs.
Step 6: Book a consultation
Most hairstylists offer a free consultation. This is super helpful when deciding on a new hairstylist as it gives you an opportunity to meet and talk about your hair. Not only do you get to connect with the stylist, you also have an opportunity to see the salon and the vibe. Whether you’re after a relaxing pamper session, or a funky, loud vibe, this will be your chance to see that it’s the right place for you.
If you’ve never had a consultation before, or you don’t quite know what they are, I have a detailed post over here that is a must read. I go over the 10 most important things your hairstylist needs to know about your hair so that you don’t miss out any crucial information!
Step 7: Book your hair appointment
By this point you should be confident that this is the right person for you. If you’ve gone through step 1 – 6 and still aren’t sure – Don’t rush!!! Take your time. You are under no obligation to schedule an appointment if you are not 100% sure about it.
While it is a time consuming operation, it is totally worth being thorough. Having a bad experience in a salon can cost you a fortune of time, money and stress and can usually be avoided with proper research beforehand. Not to say mistakes don’t happen, because of course they do, but we can do what is in our power to avoid them.
Bonus points
- Ask a friend! Your friends will be the best guide when it comes to hairstylists and are usually more than happy to share the information if they are happy with theirs
- While social media is an important tool in the search, beware of images that are too touched up! Heavily edited images can give the impression that the hairstylist is a great colorist – but they might just be really good at photoshop
- Top salon doesn’t always mean top hairstylist. The stylist themselves should be chosen by their individual merit based on the criteria above, and of course if they are in a beautiful/ trendy salon too that’s a bonus! But the two don’t necessarily go hand in hand.
- Most importantly, a hairstylist should make you feel calm and heard! If you feel like you are not being listened to, that is a big red flag.
