April 26th, 2023
Getting a bad haircut is a real bummer. This is especially true for someone with curly hair. It takes longer to grow back, and it's harder to tell if you'll really like the cut until after you wash and style it yourself afterwards (often several days later). Arming yourself with the right communication strategy can help you relax before, during and after your next haircut, and that's what my guide below is for.
Bring Pictures
It helps to communicate what you want by bringing a picture of your hair from a "good hair" day, or day where you really liked your hair. Try to use one from the past year or two. Video can also work, and will help show how the hair moves. Bringing a picture of a haircut you sourced from Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok or Google can help explain what you want, but may not match your hair's volume and curl pattern, meaning the cut won't look exactly the same on you, or may not be attainable. For this reason, using pictures you sourced from HairLooks works best (try it out here).
Have Clean, Dry Hair Worn Down
For curls, it's important for the stylist to understand the shape of your hair. If it's up in a ponytail, you're towards the end of your routine between hair washes, or your hair is wet from a recent wash, it can disguise your hair's fullness and curl pattern. Come to the salon with dry, clean hair with minimal product to help your stylist see and assess it's current state. Avoid braids, twists and/or using a curling iron before the appointment, as these will also distort your curl pattern.
Take a Photo of Your Hair Products
Most stylists will ask what products you use. Whether you're struggling to find ones you like or love what you're using, it helps the stylist plan how to cut your hair if they know what you style with at home. Taking a quick picture of your product line up while getting ready one day is an easy way to show the stylist what those products are during your next appointment.
Know the Answer to These Questions
Before your appointment, it's important to know your preferences, routine and the things you need help with. The list of questions below are ones to think about and to bring up during your haircut.
- What do you like best about your hair?
- What do you not like about your hair?
- Is your current styling routine working for you?
- Are the products you use working for your current haircut?
- Do the same products usually work after you have your hair cut?
- How often do you wash your hair?
- What is the overall health of your hair and scalp?
- How often do you have your hair cut to maintain your look?
Let People Know What You Want
A good stylist or barber, plus their assistant, wants to listen to your requests. If you want the final look to be more full or more flat, make sure to ask (pictures help here). When you're getting shampooed, if you like more pressure or hotter water, don't be afraid to let someone know. These things are small, but go a long way in helping you enjoy the experience.
