How to Choose the Right Hair Salon: A Complete Guide

Service needs:

• Do you need a simple trim or complex color work?
• Are you looking for specific treatments (keratin, extensions, etc.)?
• Do you need specialty services (curly hair, Afro-textured hair, etc.)?

Practical considerations:

• How far are you willing to travel?
• What's your budget?
• Do you need specific hours (early morning, evenings, weekends)?
• Is parking important?
• Do you need wheelchair accessibility?

Personal preferences:

• Do you prefer a lively atmosphere or quiet relaxation?
• Is a consultation before service important to you?
• Do you want a stylist who suggests ideas or one who follows your direction exactly?

Google Maps & Reviews

• Search "hair salon near me" or "coiffeur [your city]"
• Look at overall ratings (4+ stars is a good sign)
• Read recent reviews for current quality
• Check photos of the salon interior

Instagram & Social Media

• Search salon names for their work
• Look at the quality and style of their portfolio
• Check if their aesthetic matches yours
• See how they interact with followers

Salon Websites

• Review their service menu and prices
• Look for stylist bios and specialties
• Check if they list their products and techniques
• See if they offer online booking

• Friends with similar hair: They understand your challenges
• Colleagues at work: Especially if they have great hair
• Your current stylist: If you're moving, they may know someone
• Local Facebook groups: Community recommendations
• Reddit/local forums: Anonymous but honest opinions

1. 1"What do you specifically love about your salon?"
2. 2"How long have you been going there?"
3. 3"Have they ever made a mistake? How did they handle it?"
4. 4"What's the atmosphere like?"
5. 5"How easy is it to book appointments?"

Response time:

• Do they answer calls promptly?
• How quickly do they respond to emails or messages?
• Is the reception friendly and helpful?

Information provided:

• Can they clearly explain services and pricing?
• Do they ask about your needs?
• Are they transparent about waiting times?

Booking process:

• Is it easy to book?
• Can they accommodate your schedule?
• Do they explain cancellation policies?

• Assessment of your hair type and condition
• Discussion of your lifestyle and maintenance preferences
• Review of inspiration photos you bring
• Honest feedback about what's achievable
• Clear explanation of recommended services
• Price quote before any work begins

1. 1"What products do you recommend for my hair type?"
2. 2"How often will I need to come back for maintenance?"
3. 3"What's the realistic expectation for my first appointment?"
4. 4"Can you show me examples of similar work you've done?"
5. 5"What happens if I'm not happy with the result?"

The environment:

• Is the salon clean and well-maintained?
• Are the tools sanitized properly?
• Is it comfortable and welcoming?
• Does the atmosphere match what you want?

The stylist:

• Do they listen to what you want?
• Do they ask clarifying questions?
• Do they explain what they're doing?
• Are they focused on you, not distracted?

The result:

• Did you get what you asked for?
• Do you know how to maintain it at home?
• Were there any unexpected charges?
• Would you return?

• Location: City centers cost more than suburbs
• Stylist experience: Senior stylists charge more
• Product quality: Premium products add to cost
• Time required: Longer services cost more
• Complexity: Technical work commands higher prices

1. 1Be consistent: Regular visits help your stylist know your hair
2. 2Communicate clearly: Speak up if something isn't right
3. 3Be on time: Respect their schedule
4. 4Give feedback: Let them know what you loved
5. 5Be loyal: Stick with stylists who do good work
6. 6Tip appropriately: 5-10% in Switzerland if you're pleased

It's okay to change salons if:

• Quality has declined consistently
• You no longer feel heard
• Major mistakes aren't corrected
• Prices have increased unreasonably
• You've moved and the commute is impractical

For specific needs, search for specialists:

• Curly hair: Look for "curl specialists" or DevaCut certified
• Afro-textured hair: Search for salons advertising natural hair services
• Color correction: Find colorists who specifically offer this
• Extensions: Ensure they're certified in your preferred method
• Men's styling: Traditional barbershops may be better than unisex salons