Beauty Salon Etiquette: What Every Client Should Know

Walking into a salon should feel relaxing, not stressful. The little habits you follow can make the experience smoother for you and the staff. Below are the most useful tips you can start using today.

Before Your Appointment

First thing – book the right amount of time. If the service says 60 minutes, aim to arrive a few minutes early. Late arrivals throw off the whole day’s schedule and can rush the technician, leaving you with a half‑done look.

Next, keep your phone on silent or vibrate. A quick text won’t ruin anyone’s focus, but a loud ringtone can startle the stylist and distract everyone. If you need to take a call, step outside or find a quiet corner.

Know what you want, but be flexible. Bring reference photos, but remember the stylist’s expertise. A short chat about hair type, skin tone, or nail health helps them tailor the service to you.

Lastly, confirm any special requests (allergies, product preferences) when you book or arrive. Clear communication avoids surprises mid‑service.

During & After Your Visit

While the professional works, stay relaxed. Avoid fidgeting or shifting around too much – the chair is set up for your comfort. If you notice something you don’t like, speak up politely. "Can we adjust the shade a bit?" is better than staying silent and leaving unhappy.

When the service ends, a genuine compliment goes a long way. Stylists put a lot of skill into each cut or nail design, and a simple "You did great!" brightens their day and builds a good relationship.

Tipping is the biggest etiquette question. In the UK, 10‑15% of the total bill is the usual range for hair, nail, or skin services. If the therapist went above and beyond – say, gave you a free product tip or extra time – you might lean toward 15% or add a few pounds extra.

Don’t forget to pay the full amount before you leave. It’s courteous to settle the bill at the front desk rather than leaving a tip on the table and walking out.

After you’re home, share a quick review if you’re happy. A five‑star rating on Google or Instagram helps the salon attract new clients and rewards the staff for good work.

And if something didn’t meet your expectations, give the salon a chance to fix it. Most places will offer a free touch‑up or a discount on the next visit. Raising concerns directly is more productive than posting a negative comment without warning.

Following these simple etiquette rules makes every salon visit pleasant. You’ll feel confident, the staff will appreciate your respect, and the results will look better because everyone’s on the same page.

Remember: punctuality, phone courtesy, clear communication, fair tipping, and honest feedback are the pillars of good salon etiquette. Keep them in mind and enjoy every haircut, polish, or facial you book.