How To Find A Good Hairstylist

True statement. A good hairstylist is… hard to find.

I have been in the beauty industry for over 25 years, and have encountered many hairstylists that has absolutely no clue as to what they are doing.

Not only that…there have been times when I have cringed watching other stylists perform simple tasks on clients.

I will be the first to tell you that just because someone has a license, does not mean that they are skilled or qualified to do the job.

I often feel sorry for clients that walk in off the street and request to get their hair done. In most salons, the least busy stylist will be given the walk-in.

Now I am not saying that a new stylist cannot give a tip-top service, but a quality stylist will be able to make you feel comfortable during the consultation so that you are at ease when he/she begins the service.

Don’t feel intimidated or apprehensive to ask questions. Also, ask to see some pictures of their work. Most hairstylists that are gifted and enjoy what they do will have an array of photographs of their work.

So in the case of a new stylist, if they are proud of their photos and you feel comfortable with their consultation, go for it. You will probably be pleasantly surprised.

Below is a list of questions that you can ask a stylist on a first-time visit that can help you determine whether or not they can perform the work.

• How long have you been in the business?

Experience does help, but it is not always a determining factor. If the stylist is fairly new to the field, pay attention. Make sure there is confidence behind the pitch.

• How can you help my hair look its best?

Always choose a hairstylist that gives you reasonable solutions to your hair needs. Be leery of the ones that claim they can perform miracles. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

• How often do you train or take advanced classes?

The hairstylist that trains and takes classes regularly want to stay up on what’s new in the industry and what will keep your hair looking its best. If they don’t take classes or go to shows, walk away. They are only interested in getting your money and not giving you the best service possible.

• Do you offer specialized treatments for hair and scalp?

You want your hairstylist to go beyond just a “deep conditioner.” You want to make sure that they offer specialized treatments like hair masks, steam treatments, infrared scalp treatments, leave-in treatments… Any of these types of treatments shows that your stylist keeps on hand products that will nourish the hair and scalp and ultimately keep it healthy.

• Do you style natural hair?

Most hairstylists that service natural hair (pressing, twists, cornrows) in addition to relaxers realize that chemicals aren’t for everyone. This is a stylist that is not just interested in making their job easier, but in making sure that your hair is as healthy as possible. Sometimes that means being chemical-free.

Just remember to take an active role in choosing a hairstylist. Don’t just go with the flow when going to a new salon. Just because you’re not good at styling your hair does not mean that you cannot take an active role in the health and care of your tresses.

You are ultimately responsible for the health of your hair, so be proactive and make wise choices in choosing a professional. And don’t worry if you think you might get on the stylist’s nerves. If questions irritate the stylist, they are probably not the best choice.

Good Hunting!