Choosing a hairdresser
A good hairdresser listens first, cuts second. Finding one who understands your hair type and your routine is worth more than any product.
Where to look
- Ask people whose hair you admire, especially if their hair is similar to yours.
- Look at salon and stylist portfolios on social media for work on hair like yours: same texture, length and colour goals.
- Read recent reviews, and look at how the salon replies to complaints.
- For curly hair, colour corrections or big changes, look for a stylist who clearly specialises in that.
Book a consultation
Many salons offer a short consultation, often free. It is a chance to check that you get on, that they understand what you want and that the price is clear before anything is cut or coloured. For colour, a good salon will also ask you to come in for a patch test beforehand; see our colour guide.
Questions worth asking
- How would you approach my hair type?
- Is what I want realistic in one appointment? If not, how many?
- How much will it cost in total, including toner, treatments or extra time?
- How long will it take to style each day, and how often will I need to come back?
- Do you cut curly hair wet or dry?
Getting the cut you want
- Bring two or three photos of what you like and one of what you don't, ideally on hair like yours.
- Use length you can see: "to my collarbone" is clearer than "a few inches".
- Be honest about your routine, any home colour, henna or box dye, and any scalp sensitivity.
- Arrive with your hair styled the way you usually wear it, if you can.
- Speak up during the appointment if something feels wrong. It is much easier to adjust before it is finished.
If you are unhappy
Contact the salon politely and soon, ideally within a few days, and explain what isn't right. Most salons would rather fix a problem than lose a client, and many offer a free adjustment. Keep your receipt and take photos in good light.
Keep reading: Face shapes · Hair colour · Curly hair care
Last reviewed: November 2026