Let's face it, tipping can be an awkward thing. It's hard to be all slick about it because, by definition, it's fraught with clumsiness. You know, the hand off (which never goes as smoothly as you'd like), the timing and, then, of course, the (ugh) math.

Because I'm much more of a wordsmith than a math whiz, over the years I've had to develop a cheat sheet or risk becoming a bumbling fool at any place where tipping is expected.

And, because there's so much mis-information about gratuities out there, I've spent a fair amount of time learning exactly who's supposed to get what. Here's the scoop so you won't be flummoxed next time you head in for a cut or wax:

1.A tip should be 15-20 percent of the total of services rendered. (Before taxes are added.)


2. Salons don't work like restaurants. Don't assume that your service provider will "tip out" to an apprentice or hair washer the way a waitress might to a bus boy. If someone other than your stylist washes you hair, give them $5. Similarly, if someone other than your stylist blows your hair dry, give them $10.

3.If your salon provides gratuity envelopes, it is customary to use them. Be sure to write their name and yours on the front. And, you can feel free to leave it at the front desk or to hand it directly to your service provider -- either way works. (Don't worry, the chick at the front desk won't pocket the envelope. We hope.)


4. If your service provider is also the owner of the salon, you need to find out ahead of time what the policy is. Ask the receptionist what other clients do. It used to be unthinkable that an owner would accept a tip, but these days, anything goes.


5. Because many nail salons ask you to pay (and tip) before your polish has been put on, they know how much they're getting ahead of time. This makes me wonder whether they'd have done a better job if I'd tipped more so I always leave cash in an easily accessible place and ante up at the end.


That's it. See? Not really as confounding as it appears. Bottom line, salon workers are in the service industry. When they perform a service to your liking, you should thank them for it. And, nothing says "thank you" like a good, solid 20%.

What are your tipping guidelines? Anything vary much from what you read here?