Choosing a Hair Salon - Mistakes to Avoid

We have all been there before ... okay, well, most of us have anyway. You know what I am talking about: the bad haircut. Not just an "I cannot believe my hair turned out this way" but an "I have to wear a baseball cap or a wig for a month" reaction. Maybe the color was not what you wanted - ever - or maybe the stylist cut off 4 inches instead of 1. Did you ask for a quick trim of your long locks and end up with a pageboy? Well, keep reading, because there are ways to make sure that you are never again the victim of a ridiculously botched hairstyle.

One of the primary mistakes that are made in choosing a salon is choosing blindly. Like any other business, salons have reputations. A quick online search can give you an idea of what some locals think of the business. However, keep in mind that unhappy customers are more likely to leave a review than happy customers are. Make sure that you consult some reliable sources. Friends and family are sure to give you an honest evaluation of their own experiences. By culling information about a salon that you are interested in, you will be able to make a more informed decision.

Another mistake to avoid is forgetting to gather information about the hair salon and its policies. Each establishment has its own pricing and customer service policies. Some may charge a flat fee for individual services, while others charge different fees based on the stylist, length of hair, amount of color applied, et cetera. It is important to know what to expect before arriving so that you can be financially prepared.

Once you have gathered information about the hair salon, it may be a good idea to stop by for a quick visit. Beauty shops are notoriously places where you can catch the latest gossip or enjoy a relaxing time out with your friends. It is important, however, that you are comfortable in the environment. Don't make the mistake of feeling overwhelmed or unwelcome. A hair salon should be inviting, relaxing and make you feel very comfortable. No one wants to feel awkward when someone is hovering nearby with very sharp scissors!

The last mistake you will want to avoid in choosing a hair salon is overlooking the cleanliness of the establishment itself. If the owners take pride in their business, the salon will be clean, tidy and in good repair. This does not mean that the furnishings are brand new and that it seems to have stepped from the pages of a magazine. However, if it is obviously unkempt and dirty, you may want to reconsider if this is the place for you.

By following these simple ideas, you can be sure that you will find the hair salon that meets your needs and leaves you feeling terrific! Then, you can be one of the friends and family to pass along a great recommendation of your favorite place to feel relaxed and pampered (and crazy-hair free!).