How to Choose the Right Hair Salon for You

Finding the perfect hair salon can feel overwhelming, especially in a new area. Whether you're looking for a simple trim or a complete style transformation, choosing the right salon makes all the difference. Here's your guide to finding the perfect fit.

1. Check Reviews and Ratings

Start by browsing reviews on platforms like RosterHive, Google, and Yelp. Look for:

Consistent positive feedback
Specific mentions of services you want
How the salon handles negative reviews
Recent reviews (within the last 3-6 months)

Pro tip: Pay attention to reviews that mention your hair type or texture!

2. Visit the Salon's Website or Social Media

A good salon will showcase their work online. Look for:

Portfolio of recent styles
Before and after photos
Pricing transparency
Stylist bios and specializations

Instagram and TikTok are goldmines for seeing a salon's actual work, not just professional marketing photos.

3. Consider the Salon's Specialty

Different salons excel at different things:

Color specialists: Great for balayage, highlights, or vibrant colors
Curly hair experts: Trained in DevaCurl or similar techniques
Extensions: Require specific training and experience
Men's grooming: Barbershops vs. full-service salons

Choose a salon that specializes in what you need.

4. Price Range Matters

Be honest about your budget, but remember:

Lower prices don't always mean lower quality
Higher prices don't guarantee perfect results
Consider the cost of fixing a bad cut elsewhere

Most salons list their price ranges online. If not, call and ask!

5. Book a Consultation First

Many salons offer free consultations. Use this to:

Meet your potential stylist
Discuss your hair goals
Ask about their experience
Get a feel for the salon atmosphere

Trust your gut. If something feels off during the consultation, it's okay to look elsewhere.

6. Location and Convenience

Consider practical factors:

How far are you willing to travel?
Is parking available?
What are their hours? (Evening/weekend appointments?)
How far in advance do they book?

7. Ask the Right Questions

During your consultation or first appointment, ask:

"How would you approach my hair goals?"
"What products do you recommend for my hair type?"
"How often should I come in for maintenance?"
"What's your cancellation policy?"

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if you notice:

❌ Dirty or disorganized salon
❌ Stylist doesn't listen to your requests
❌ Pressure to book expensive services immediately
❌ No clear pricing
❌ Stylist on their phone during your appointment

Making the Switch

Don't feel guilty about trying different salons! Most people try 3-4 before finding "the one." It's completely normal to:

Try different stylists within the same salon
Visit multiple salons before committing
Return to a previous salon if a new one doesn't work out

Ready to find your perfect salon? Browse local salons on RosterHive and book your next appointment today!