The stylist's assistant and/or the shampoo person. These people often are forgotten, but they're a huge part of your salon experience, so it's important to treat them well too. It doesn't have to be much, $2 to $5 is reasonable, but it makes a big difference. As Pelusi points out, "When you're getting your hair colored, that shampoo person has a lot of power over how your hair will turn out [as far as stripping color and rinsing it correctly and at the right time], so you want to treat them well."

If you don't tip the assistants, the stylists will, which means the stylist will get less tips overall (not the best way to get on their good side).

You should listen. Yes, in some salons the stylists get a commission on sales, but it's such a small amount that it's not what's motivating them. The truth is if a stylist recommends something it's because it'll be good for your hair, so if you trust your stylist, listen up. Especially when it comes to color-treated hair, the right shampoo and conditioner can help maintain the color and keep hair healthy.

Acosta explains, "You just spent all this money to get your hair colored or cut, it doesn't make sense not to spend a little more to get the right products to maintain the look." Plus, stylists admit that it makes their job easier when you come in with healthy hair, so that's their real motivation.

When you're talking about hair. This little measurement can mean vastly different things to you and your stylist. So instead of staying, "take three inches off," show them how much of your hair you want cut off so there's no confusion.

Other terms that are often misinterpreted: "brassy," "ash," "layers" and "graduation." All of these can mean different things to different people, even different stylists. To be clear, use pictures or other adjectives to describe what you want or ask your stylist what these terms mean so you're on the same page.

Be honest. Explain your situation because salons will usually want to help you out (especially if you are a good customer, yet another reason to tip well). There are a few methods you can try to get squeezed in:

1. If the salon is booked, ask to be put on the wait list. This is usually first come, first served but if your situation is urgent (like a last minute date), they may be able to help. Once you're on the wait list, you can try two or three follow up calls to the salon to see if anything has opened up. This lets the front desk know that you're serious. Don't call more than that though; you don't want to be annoying.

2. If you have a good relationship with your stylist, politely ask the front desk if you can speak with them or leave a message for them to explain the situation directly. Stylists will occasionally come in early or stay late for their loyal customers if it's a hair emergency.

It depends on a few factors. One is the location of the salon -- salons in more affluent areas will likely charge more. Another can be the hairdressers at the salon. If any of them are "celebrity stylists," they may charge more. Also, within a salon the prices can vary based on how much experience a stylist has (whether he or she is a "master" or "junior" stylist).

In most cases, the price isn't the best indicator of how well your hair will turn out, that's why it's better to rely on referrals rather than the name or address of the salon.