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.
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If you're desperate for a last-minute appointment ...
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.
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Ever wonder why prices can vary so much from salon to salon ...
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.
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The real reason some hair takes longer to cut than others ...
Is texture. Stylists say fine hair is quicker to cut than thick hair and that texture matters more than length. So if you know you have really thick hair, be prepared for a slightly longer appointment.
And along those lines, if you are in a rush, make an appropriate appointment. A blow-out is quick, a cut or color is not. And tell your stylist ahead of time that you're in a hurry so he or she is prepared.
Whether you think of a salon visit as a fun treat or a necessary chore, you'll want to get the best service (and hairstyle) possible, right? That's why we talked to the experts, Marco Pelusi, owner of Marco Pelusi Hair Studio, Jenny Balding, senior stylist at Cutler/Redken Salons, Whitney Olson, stylist at Warren Tricomi Los Angeles, and Rosie Acosta, salon manager at Warren Tricomi Los Angeles. They told us the secrets of the salon -- the best times to go, how to get that last-minute appointment when you're desperate, and much more!
