Tip Hairdresser Owner: What’s the Right Amount?

If your stylist also runs the salon, you might wonder whether to tip and how much. It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. Below you’ll get straight‑forward guidance, real‑world numbers, and tips for New Zealand settings.

Basic tipping rules for any hairdresser

In most places, a tip of 10‑20 % of the service cost is considered generous. If you’re happy with the cut, colour, or blow‑dry, aim for the higher end of that range. For a simple trim, 10 % is fine; for a full‑service makeover, 15‑20 % shows appreciation.

Remember, the tip goes to the person who actually performed the work. When the stylist is also the owner, the tip is still a thank‑you for their hands‑on effort.

When the hairdresser owns the salon

Many salon owners work alongside their team, especially in boutique spaces. In that case, the tip is still appropriate because it rewards the individual’s skill, not the business profit. If the owner does the service themselves, a tip of 10‑15 % is reasonable.

However, if the owner wasn’t the one cutting your hair – for example, you booked an appointment with a junior stylist at an owner‑run salon – you can tip the stylist directly. Some salons have a tip jar or a digital tip option already set up for the team.

In New Zealand, tipping isn’t as entrenched as in the US, but it’s becoming more common in high‑end salons. A tip of 10 % is well‑received, especially if the service exceeded expectations.

Here are practical numbers to keep in mind:

• £50 trim – tip £5 (10 %) or £7.5 (15 %).
• £120 colour and cut – tip £12‑£18.
• £200 full pamper – tip £30‑£40.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, adding an extra £5‑£10 shows genuine appreciation. During holiday seasons, many clients round up to the nearest £10 or leave a bonus for the whole team.

When you’re unsure, just ask the receptionist or check the payment screen. Some modern POS systems let you select a percentage before you sign the receipt.

Bottom line: tip the person who did the work, keep the amount in the 10‑20 % range, and adjust for NZ customs or special occasions. A small gesture goes a long way in building a good relationship with your stylist‑owner and ensures you get great service every visit.