Tips to get what you want from your stylist
How to find a good hairstylistA great cut starts with a good stylist. However, cutters who are great at short cuts may not be ideal for longer looks. What’s more, many women unreasonably expect a hairdresser to be able to do everything, or they stick with someone they like just because they think they’re friends. They’re not – stylists are simply people who provide you with a service. When you know what you want, start by making a list of hairstylists and their qualifications. Here’s a roundup of places to look:
Among friends
Recommendations are the best place to start your search. If you know someone who has your hair type and a cut you love, ask who does her hair. Just be sure the stylist is in your price range.
In trendy or sophisticated areasDepending on what type of cut you want, salons that will best deliver it tend to be located in neighborhoods that reflect that particular style, i.e. don’t expect to get the coolest hairdo in the richest part of town. Once you’re in the right place, watch customers coming out the door. If you see lots of fabulous cuts, ask the receptionist to recommend a stylist for consultation, or ask a customer who cut her hair.
On hair care websitesMany of professional product companies offer tons of training. See if any of their educators also work in a salon near you by checking out their websites. Once you find a great salon or stylist, or if you already have stylist you dig, see how many of the following qualifications apply to him on her: Cutting specialist, platform educator, former cosmetology instructor, holder of advanced education certifications, more than 5 years of experience, editorial session hairdressers, in-salon trainer, trained cutter and colorist. The more of these skills and training your stylist has, the better.
Now that you have a stylist in mind, book an appointment for a consultation. If you want to stay with your current hairstylist, let the receptionist know that you need extra appointment time, because you want to talk about making a change.
Photo finishNext, collect several pictures of looks you like. Some websites even let you upload a photo of yourself so you can give them a virtual test. Before you walk in the door, set some boundaries for what you will and won’t do.In the salon chair, don’t be afraid to ask questions, no matter how trivial you think they’ll sound. It’s a good idea to write down your questions beforehand so you won’t forget any of them. Show your photos and discuss how they may work with your hair type, facial shape and lifestyle. Ask if the look will be easy to work with at home. After talking, ask for suggestions and have the stylist show you what have he or she has in mind. Make certain you’re listened to. If you get any negative vibes, get up and go. If you come to an agreement as to what you want and exactly what will be done, book an appointment. Only go ahead the same day if you’re not only certain, but excited. Even then, question anything that doesn’t look right.Once the cut is completed, check your hair from all sides.
Don’t leave the salon unhappy; speak up when you’re in the chair. If you kept a close watch, you should have the look you wanted. Hopefully, there’s time left for you to learn some new styling options. If your stylist lets you know each product used and how to use them, chances are good you’ll continue to get what you want for years to come.
