Whether you visit a single hairstylist or switch things up each time, they probably have a few things they wish clients would stop doing. From minor annoyances to habits that affect your hair’s health and their ability to deliver perfect results, here’s a list of things hairstylists wish clients would stop doing.

01. Being Critical of Yourself in the Chair
While it’s natural to feel awkward sitting in front of the mirror for hours, self-deprecating remarks can make both you and your stylist uncomfortable. “It’s disheartening to hear clients point out every flaw as soon as they sit in the chair,” says stylist Kallie Henskens. Instead, try to shift your mindset and embrace positive language. Your stylist is there to help bring out your best self, not to judge you.
02. Sitting With Poor Posture
Good posture is crucial during a haircut, so avoid crossing your legs or looking down while in the chair. A straight posture helps maintain safety when using sharp tools, ensures the best results, and leads to a more balanced haircut. Sit up straight, put your phone down, and stay engaged with your stylist for optimal results.
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03. Coming in With Overgrown Roots
Stretching the time between color appointments can be tempting, but it can lead to disappointing results, especially if your natural and dyed colors differ. Sharon Dorram, a celebrity colorist, says clients often expect their color to look perfect after one session when roots have grown too long. Be prepared for multiple appointments if you’ve let your roots grow out too much.
04. Micromanaging the Process
While feedback is appreciated, constantly micromanaging your stylist can lead to frustration. “We all have our unique approaches to achieving the desired result,” says Henskens. Trust your stylist’s expertise and allow them to showcase their creativity. After all, they are the professionals.
05. Not Speaking Up When Necessary
If something doesn’t feel right during your session, don’t hesitate to speak up. Addressing concerns early on gives your stylist the chance to adjust the work and ensure you leave the salon with exactly what you envisioned. If the result isn’t perfect at the end, gently share your thoughts, so the issue can be resolved immediately.
06. Ignoring Recommended Hair Products
When you invest in high-end hair treatments or coloring, it’s important to use salon-quality products. Hairstylist Julius Michael recommends sulfate- and paraben-free products to protect your hair color and maintain healthy strands. While these products may cost more, they will help preserve your investment and keep your hair looking its best.
07. Forgetting to Bring Visual Inspiration
Describing your ideal style can be tough, but providing a visual reference makes it much easier for your stylist to understand your expectations. “Bring inspiration photos that reflect your hair texture and color,” advises Henskens. This helps ensure your stylist can work their magic and deliver the look you want.
08. Arriving With Dirty Hair
While it used to be advised to come in with dirty hair to protect your scalp, this is no longer recommended. Newer hair products are gentler, and dirty hair with too much buildup can interfere with your stylist’s work. Arrive at the salon with clean, dry hair for the best results.
09. Relying Too Much on Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is great for a quick fix, but it shouldn’t replace regular washes. “Dry shampoo doesn’t clean the scalp,” says celebrity stylist Chaz Dean. It’s important to wash your hair regularly to remove buildup and maintain healthy hair growth. Routine washes promote a cleaner scalp and more vibrant hair.
10. Wearing Bulky Clothing
Wearing a turtleneck or hoodie can interfere with styling, as it prevents the stylist from getting to your hair properly. Siobhan Quinlan, a colorist, suggests wearing comfortable clothing that’s not bulky. “Something you aren’t too precious about will be ideal,” she advises. Robes or towels are used to protect your clothes, but accidents can still happen in a salon environment.
11. Pushing Foils Out of Your Face
When undergoing a color service, avoid pushing foils out of your face, as it can cause them to slip and disrupt the color process. If the foils are uncomfortable, simply ask your colorist to adjust them instead. This will help ensure that your color is applied correctly without any mishaps.
12. Complaining About Other Stylists
Starting an appointment by complaining about past stylists can create unnecessary tension. “I prefer a fresh start with a positive attitude,” says Tatiana Garcia, a salon owner. Approaching your session with an open mind and respect for your stylist’s approach will lead to a smoother, more pleasant experience.
13. Constantly Checking Your Phone
While it’s tempting to check your phone during a salon visit, constantly looking down disrupts your posture. Hairstylist Jill Reynolds advises looking straight ahead while your stylist works on the front of your hair. Poor posture can negatively impact the results, so it’s important to stay present and maintain good posture during your appointment.
14. Not Respecting the Cancellation Policy
Respecting your stylist’s cancellation policy is essential. Sarah Oflaherty, salon owner, emphasizes that policies are in place to ensure fairness for both the client and the stylist. Most salons require at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations, with penalties for late cancellations. Check your salon’s policy and make sure your schedule aligns to avoid unnecessary fees.
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