Hair Salon Tips: Tipping, Styles, and Care Guides

Walking into a salon can feel like stepping into a new world. You want great results, a fair price, and a friendly vibe. The good news? A few simple habits make every visit smoother. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice on tipping, picking extensions, rocking short hair, and keeping your strands healthy.

How to Tip Your Hairdresser Right

Tip talk is often confusing, but the rule of thumb is easy: aim for 15‑20 % of the total bill. If the stylist goes above and beyond—extra time, custom advice, or a complex color—lean toward the higher end. For a quick trim, 10 % is fine, but don’t forget to factor in taxes. In New Zealand, many salons expect around 10‑15 % because the service charge is usually baked into the price.

When you’re happy with the result, hand the tip directly to the stylist rather than leaving it on the counter. A quick “Thanks, you did a great job!” paired with the tip feels personal and shows you value their effort. If you’re paying by card, most POS systems let you add a tip before signing the receipt—use that to keep things tidy.

Choosing Extensions and Short Hair Styles

Extensions can transform a look, but they need the right match. Clip‑ins are perfect for a night out; they’re easy to apply and remove, and you can swap colors. Tape‑ins last longer—about six to eight weeks—but require a professional to install. When you pick a brand, look for “remy” hair, which means the cuticles are aligned for a natural shine.

If you’re thinking about cutting your hair short, consider your face shape. A bob works well for round faces because it adds definition, while a pixie cut flatters longer faces by highlighting cheekbones. Pair a short cut with a simple at‑home routine: use a sulfate‑free shampoo, a lightweight conditioner, and a leave‑in serum to protect against breakage.

Healthy hair doesn’t happen by accident. Start with a scalp massage two minutes a day to boost circulation. Follow up with a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove product buildup. When you style, keep heat below 350°F and always use a heat protectant spray. These habits keep split ends at bay and make any salon work look better.

Salon etiquette goes beyond tipping. Arrive on time—being five minutes early shows respect for the stylist’s schedule. If you’re running late, call ahead and ask if they can still fit you in; otherwise, be prepared for a possible reschedule fee. Keep your phone on silent and avoid loud conversations while the stylist is working.

Finally, communicate clearly. Bring reference photos, but be ready to discuss what will work with your hair type and lifestyle. A good stylist will suggest tweaks, not just copy a picture. After the service, ask about product recommendations tailored to your hair’s needs. Those suggestions often save you money in the long run because you’ll avoid buying the wrong stuff.

By mastering these simple tips—fair tipping, smart extension choices, a suitable short cut, proper hair care, and respectful salon behavior—you’ll get more out of every visit. Your hair will look better, and you’ll feel confident walking out of the salon ready to face the day.