Salons Open Near Me Today (2024)

FAQs

How much do you tip your hairdresser if she owns the salon? ›

As for how much, she says it's standard to tip 15 percent, but tipping 20 percent or more for a stellar service is always appreciated. Because we're always on the hunt for more salon etiquette know-how, we tapped Williams for her top tips for clients.

Highlight your unique selling points, whether it's superior hair design quality, innovative features, exceptional customer service, or a distinctive salon brand personality. Find a way to clearly communicate these differentiators to your salon customers to set yourself apart.

"Tip 20% on the true total cost of the service, not the discounted cost," Schweitzer says. "The hairdresser did the same amount of work, so they deserve the same amount of tip."

FAQ about tipping your hairdresser

According to Consumer Reports, you should tip at least 15% of the service fee, even if the service wasn't the best. If you're debating whether to tip a smaller amount because you're not happy with your service, you can also consider speaking to the manager or owner first.

Just keep it simple and polite, stating that despite no hard feelings or ill will, you think it will be best to see another stylist moving forward. Wish them well, and thank them for their services to date.

“The client should either call or email straightaway, or between 24 to 48 hours after the service. Not one week or two weeks after the service. Just be honest with what the issue is—be specific, and detail why, for you, it doesn't work.

Being in business over 23 years, I only fired three or four clients as a salon owner. It's best to do it in person, but if that's not possible, have a cool, honest, respectful conversation over the phone. Say something like: I would like to thank you for being a loyal client, and I'm so sorry we cannot please you.

How do you know if you have a bad hairdresser? ›

If a hairdresser consistently ignores your instructions or imposes their own ideas without your consent, it's a sign that they're not focused on meeting your needs. A good hairdresser should be able to communicate with you effectively and make you feel comfortable throughout the whole appointment experience.

Level 4 Stylist

They are established, respected, and carry a reputation for excellence that has earned them this title. With years, sometimes decades of experience, advanced education and the highest demand for their services, there isn't much a Level 4 Stylist hasn't handled in his or her craft.

While some people might feel uncomfortable or awkward asserting exactly what they want done to their hair, it's not considered “trying to take your stylist's job.” In fact, a stylist can do a better job when you're able to communicate what cut or color you want, especially if you provide photo inspiration.

"Not tipping the owner is an old tradition that's dying out," Post says. She recommends 15 to 20 percent of the fee, whether or not the stylist owns the place. When more than one person (stylist, colorist, blower) attends to you, split 15 to 20 percent among them according to how much each contributed to the outcome.

The question of tipping the salon owner divided opinions slightly, but the majority (49.8%) still believe in tipping them at the standard 15-20% rate. However, 14.8% of respondents felt tipping the owner was unnecessary, and another 14.8% suggested tipping only for exceptional service.

“$10 to $20 is generous,” Rivera said. “Most people will do $5.” Others said people should leave a similar tip to what they would leave at a restaurant. “I would say around 20% is fine,” said Adam Quintero, owner of Up Hair in the Castro.

While tipping the owner was not always expected in the past, it's becoming more acceptable to tip the owner the same 15-20% as you would a regular barber. Ultimately, tipping ensures your barber receives fair compensation and can lead to better service in the future.