You don’t just have to ask people who you know for stylist recommendations. If you see a stranger with a haircut that you really love, ask what salon they go to and which stylist they see. If you decide to make an appointment with the recommended stylist, make sure to drop the name of the person who referred you. It can help give the stylist an idea of what type of look you prefer.

Take an average of the reviews that the stylist or salon that you’re considering, so you can get a pretty good idea of their skill level. Salons often have Instagram accounts where they post photos of the cuts and styles that are done by their stylists – and individual stylists may have their own accounts. Check out the photos to see if you like their work.

If possible, ask for the stylist who you’re considering to do your blowout, so they can get a feel for your hair and you can ask about potential hairstyles. Keep in mind that not all stylists do blowouts, though. If you don’t get a blowout from the stylist who you’re considering, you might ask if you can speak with them before you leave so you can see if you feel comfortable.

Make sure to discuss the thickness and texture of your hair with the stylist as well, because a style that looks good with fine, straight hair probably isn’t the best option for thick, wavy hair. Point out any cowlicks that are a concern for you because the wrong haircut can make them more obvious. In addition to talking to the stylist about particular hair issues, you should also mention any concerns about how the cut will look with your face shape. For example, if you have round face, you might explain that you want a style that will help make it appear longer. Even after you describe your hair concerns, the stylist should touch and study it prior to cutting. You want to be certain that they really understand your hair type and texture before they pick up the scissors.

You don’t just have to bring pictures from magazines. If you have a photo of yourself with a past haircut that you really liked, bring that to show the stylist. Don’t overwhelm your stylist with a bunch of inspiration photos. Three or four is enough for him or her to get an idea of the type of cut that you want.

If there are certain things that you don’t want in haircut, be specific about those as well because knowing what you don’t like is just as important as knowing what you do like. You might say, “I don’t like any harsh lines,” or “I don’t want too many layers. ”

For example, if you know you won’t get up 20 minutes early to blow dry your hair with a round brush every day, make sure your stylist knows that. If you tend to go a long time without getting your haircut, let your stylist know so you don’t wind up with a layered cut that will look awkward growing out.

If you have your heart set on a certain cut that your stylist doesn’t think will work for you, ask them to suggest alternatives. There may be similar looks that will work better with your hair type and texture. Your stylist may shape and show you how to style your hair to compliment your face shape[9] X Expert Source Patrick EvanProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 17 January 2019. The shape of the head has a lot of significance when considering pixie cuts. [10] X Expert Source Patrick EvanProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 17 January 2019. For example, if your head is slightly cone-shaped, the hair cut should create more fullness in the corners and balance the shape into an oval. [11] X Expert Source Patrick EvanProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 17 January 2019.

To make sure that you’re pay attention, it’s best not to read a magazine or play with your phone while you’re getting your haircut.

It’s okay to make small talk with your stylist as they work, but keep the conversation light so they can stay relaxed. You shouldn’t be afraid to voice your concerns if you think that your stylist has misunderstood what you want in the cut, though. Just make sure that you’re polite. You might say, “Hang on a second please. How much are you cutting off again?”

Most salons sell the products that they recommend to clients, so you may want to pick up the items that the stylist suggests while you’re there. If you want time to think about what products you want to purchase, ask your stylist to write down their suggestions to ensure that you don’t forget the product names.

Remember to inquire about how often you should get a trim too. While it’s usually recommended that you cut your hair every four to six weeks, a short cut or a style with layers or bangs may require more frequent touch-ups.

If you’re not sure how to tell your stylist that you don’t like the style, you might say, “This isn’t really what I thought it would be. " It’s important to point out the specific things you don’t like about the cut, so the stylist can correct them. For example, explain that your bangs are too heavy or there aren’t enough layers. If you’re worried that the stylist will do a bad job again, consider going to another stylist in your area and paying them to fix your hair. [17] X Expert Source Yan KandkhorovHair Stylist Expert Interview. 28 July 2020.