How to Pick a New Hair Salon

Choosing the right hair salon can feel overwhelming, especially when you want a stylist who understands your hair type, personal style, and maintenance preferences. A great salon experience goes beyond just a haircut—it’s about trust, expertise, and an environment where you feel comfortable. Whether you’re moving to a new city, looking for a change, or simply want better service, this guide will walk you through every step of selecting the perfect hair salon.

1. Determine Your Hair Needs and Preferences

Before you start searching for a salon, take a moment to assess what you truly want. Are you looking for a salon that specializes in curly hair, balayage, or keratin treatments? Do you prefer a high-end luxury experience or a more budget-friendly option? Knowing your priorities will help narrow down your choices.

• Hair Type: If you have thick, curly, fine, or chemically treated hair, look for salons with stylists experienced in handling your specific texture.
• Services Needed: Some salons excel in coloring, while others focus on precision cuts or extensions. Make sure they offer the services you want.
• Budget: High-end salons often charge premium prices, but there are also mid-range and affordable options with talented stylists.

2. Research Salons Online

The internet is your best friend when it comes to finding reputable salons. Start by searching for salons in your area and check their websites, social media pages, and customer reviews.

• Google Reviews & Yelp: Look for consistent positive feedback, especially from clients with hair similar to yours.
• Instagram & Facebook: Many salons showcase their work on social media. Browse their portfolios to see if their style matches what you’re looking for.
• Website Credibility: A professional website with clear service menus, pricing, and stylist bios is a good sign of a well-established salon.

3. Check the Stylists’ Expertise and Specializations

Not all stylists are the same—some may be experts in blonding, while others specialize in short haircuts or bridal styling. If you have a specific look in mind, find a stylist whose work aligns with your vision.

• Look at Before & After Photos: Most salons post transformations on their websites or Instagram. This gives you a realistic idea of their skills.
• Certifications & Training: High-quality salons often highlight their stylists’ certifications in advanced coloring techniques, cutting methods, or hair health.
• Consultation Availability: A good salon will offer a free or low-cost consultation to discuss your hair goals before booking.

4. Visit the Salon in Person

Once you’ve shortlisted a few salons, consider stopping by for a quick visit. The atmosphere, cleanliness, and staff behavior can tell you a lot about the salon’s standards.

• Cleanliness: A well-maintained salon with sanitized tools is non-negotiable.
• Customer Service: Are the receptionists friendly and helpful? Do the stylists greet clients warmly?
• Vibe & Ambiance: Some salons have a relaxing, spa-like feel, while others are more trendy and upbeat. Choose one where you feel comfortable.

5. Ask the Right Questions Before Booking

Don’t hesitate to ask questions to ensure the salon meets your expectations. Here are some key ones:

• Do you have experience with my hair type/texture?
• What products do you use? (Especially important if you prefer organic or sulfate-free options)
• How long does a typical service take?
• What’s your pricing structure? (Some salons charge by length or hair density)
• Do you offer touch-ups or guarantees on color services?

6. Start with a Minor Service First

If you’re unsure about committing to a major change (like a full color transformation), book a smaller service first, such as a trim or blowout. This gives you a feel for the stylist’s technique and the salon’s overall service quality without a huge risk.

7. Pay Attention to the Products They Use

High-quality salons invest in professional-grade products that protect and enhance your hair. If a salon uses cheap, drugstore-brand products, it might be a red flag. Look for brands like Olaplex, Kerastase, or Redken, which are commonly used in top salons.

8. Consider Location and Convenience

A fantastic salon won’t be worth it if it’s too far away or has inconvenient hours. Check:

• Proximity to Your Home or Workplace
• Parking or Public Transport Accessibility
• Flexible Booking Options (Online scheduling, late hours, etc.)

9. Trust Your Gut Feeling

Sometimes, even if a salon checks all the boxes, something might feel off. Maybe the stylist doesn’t listen carefully, or the vibe isn’t right. Your comfort is crucial—don’t ignore your instincts.

10. Build a Relationship with Your Stylist

Once you find a stylist you love, stick with them! A long-term relationship means they’ll understand your hair history, preferences, and how to achieve your best look every time.

Finding the perfect hair salon takes time, but the effort pays off when you walk out feeling confident and beautiful. By following these steps—researching thoroughly, visiting in person, and trusting your instincts—you’ll be well on your way to discovering a salon that feels like a second home.

Have you recently switched salons? What was your experience like? Share your tips in the comments!