The Client's Guide to a Hair Consultation

By: Christina Cox, Hair Stylist/Expert

5 Tips to Fabulous Hair:

It’s amazing what a quick 5-minute chat with your stylist can do to really get what you want from a new color or cut. Sometimes talking to your stylist about your hair issues may seem a little intimidating. I repeatedly hear how it is hard for a client to describe what they want; they sometimes don’t quite have the lingo down. Believe me; I know firsthand how scary change can be. So, in the hair biz, we call this discussion between stylist and client "the consultation," and it is by far the most important part of the service. It gives the stylist an insight into who you are, what you’re looking for, your personal style, and how you want your hair to represent YOU! Here are some tips on making things a little easier and how to get what you really want out of your hair.

1. Pictures, Pictures, Pictures!

A picture is the easiest way to communicate your goal for your hair. It doesn’t matter if it's two different pictures, one for color, one for the cut. Hairdressers, much like artists, are very visual, so this method works wonders. Look for pictures of celebs whose fashion you admire or relate. Pinterest has a plethora of amazing hair pics as well. (You can check out hairstyles on Get Good Head's Instagram by clicking here!)

2. To love or not to love

Decide what your loving/hating about your hair or picture. This way, your stylist can give you some ideas to switch it up to suit your needs. Picking out specifics about a look also lets us, as hairstylists, get creative and customize it to you.

3. Get real

Be realistic with what your expectations are. I know we all want that Kim K. hair, but realistically, it’s not in the budget for a glam squad daily. We can come close, though, but with work! Take into account how much time you’re willing to spend on your hair. If the look you’re going for requires using a new product or tool, have your stylist show you how to make that happen. Also, most stylists will now offer blow dry lessons. It's a great forum for you to really learn the inside tips.

4. Products = Happiness

Most of the time, the look you want in that picture needs product to get there. Good quality product allows you to manipulate your hair to perform well (a good quality haircut can get you there too). Professional products are a little more expensive for a reason: quality ingredients! Store-bought products tend to make shiny hair dull and create build-up on the scalp. Supporting professional product lines also helps support the hair community by providing continuing education to your stylists, meaning more for you.

5. Life & Style

Occasionally I see a stylist doing an in-depth consultation, but the cape is already on the client. How can anyone possibly know if the look you’re going for suits your personal style? Make sure when you’re explaining your hair regime and styling expectations you are sans cape; realizing your maintenance level is another key element in a new style! Whether you’re craving a change or just having issues with your current style, talking to your stylist is always your best bet! Here’s to more good hair days!

  Cristina Cox Cristina has been the owner of Tina at Moments Salon since 2012 and has been in the industry since 2007. She studied at Kohler Academy, now Penrose Academy in Scottsdale, AZ. She is a wife to Jason and a mother to Lola. Her passion truly lies in continuing education, and she feels inspired by past and present fashion, makeup, and architecture.