The time will come when you need to find a new hairdresser. Finding the perfect hairdresser, however, does not have to be stressful or complicated. When deciding on which hairdresser or stylist is right for you and your hair, consider asking five basic questions.
1. How long have you been professionally cutting hair? It’s OK to want a veteran hairdresser to care for your hair. Someone with several years of experience may be able to work easier with difficult hair or be able to offer creative solutions for your hair care needs. Make sure your experienced hairdresser is keeping current with the latest techniques, products and styles. Does she engage continuing education? Licensed professionals can take advantage of the classes available at schools like the Paul Mitchell Advanced Academy.
2. Where did you train? It is not intrusive to ask your potential new hairdresser where he or she received his or her training. In the United States, hairdressers must pass a cosmetology-based exam and receive a state license in order to cut hair. Most hairdressers will attend an accredited cosmetology school or program at a junior college. The National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Science (NACCAS) will recognize an accredited school. Your perfect hairdresser will have interned at the salon for several months before taking on the role of full-time hairdresser.
3. What other services do you offer? A visit to the salon can be more than just a wash and a cut. Your perfect hairdresser will be an excellent colorist, able to combine highlights and lowlights while successfully covering each stubborn gray hair. She should be able to sculpt your eyebrows in one waxing and provide the right conditioning treatment for your damaged hair.
4. Can you do a razor cut? Razor cutting is a technique every stylist or hairdresser should be able to perform. Razor cut styles work on long and short men’s and women’s hair and are an ideal way to add soft, textured layers to your style. Some hairdressers lack confidence when cutting a client’s hair with a super-sharp razor blade, but confidence is a quality every hairdresser should possess.
5. What is your availability? She may offer everything you want in a hairdresser, but if you can’t get an appointment, then she is not for you. When searching for your perfect hairdresser, be sure to check her availability and its compatibility with your schedule. If she is only available on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., then you may have to look elsewhere.
A good starting point for finding your perfect hairdresser is to ask for recommendations from friends or family. If you see someone in the mall with a haircut you really like, don’t be shy — ask who cuts her hair. Most people will be happy to tell you who gave them their fabulous style.
