Top 5 Questions to ask a Hairstylist
Did you recently move? Started your natural hair journey or just ready for something new? Then you may be on the journey of looking for a hairstylist. When my client’s would relocate, I could see the fear and the discomfort of finding someone new to care for their tresses. Here’s a quick and simple guide to help you on this journey. Communicating with your stylist is vital to building a positive stylist/ client relationship. Clarity is also very crucial! When you go to meet a stylist for the first time, be clear on what you want and feel free to ask questions. Here are a few questions that may help you decide whether a stylist or style is right for you.
How long have you been styling hair and may I see your portfolio?
Although there are many talented stylists that do excellent work out there, it’s still really important to get some history from your prospective stylist to get an understanding of their experience with hair. Asking to see the stylist’s work is very important. We all need a visual example of what style we want and it also gives you a chance to see the quality of work before you decide to go forward. No one wants to be a test dummy and walk out of a salon looking like who knows what!! The great news is a lot of stylists have their work online, but it’s still not out of the question to ask to see more pictures.
What products do you use, and what type of services do you provide?
It’s important to know what type of products the stylist uses. You want to make sure they use quality products with quality ingredients. It’s also good to know what products they use, because it could be a product you tried before, and didn’t like for your hair. “Product Talk” is a great way to start the conversation about your hair…who can’t go on about products for hours; keep both you and stylist time in mind and try your best to keep it short and sweet. Asking what services the stylist provides is a great way to save your self-time and energy. Different stylists have different specialties, asking about services will lead you in the right direction.
What are your hours?
Make sure your stylist’s hours of operation work with your schedule. The person can be an amazing stylist but if the available appointments don’t work for your schedule, then that’s not the stylist for you. Trying to squeeze in an appointment, that doesn’t fit with your schedule, can be stressful, so keep this in mind when asking your questions, you will thank me later!
What are my style options?
Your stylist should be able to give different style option to compliment your length, texture and facial structure. You may have a style in mind that may not work for your texture or length. Even though you’re the one asking the questions, be open to suggestions of other styles that the stylist feels will work best for you.
What are my at Home Care and Up Keep options?
Do you want a style that last a week or 3 weeks? Do you want a style that you don’t have to manipulate at all or do you want a style you don’t mind doing something to everyday, to maintain its longevity? Asking about at home care and how to keep your style up will help you make a clear decision on whether a particular style is really functional for your lifestyle.
Now that you’re well equipped with your questions, use them as a tool to make finding the perfect style or stylist smooth and easy. Let these questions guide you on your journey and trust that it will lead you in the right direction.
