Your hairdresser might be smiling politely, but deep down, they’ve seen (and heard) it all from clients.
Whether it’s unrealistic requests, last-minute decisions, or just making their job harder than it needs to be, there are plenty of habits that can secretly drive them up the wall. If you want to stay in their good books and walk away with the best possible cut or colour, here are a few things to avoid next time you’re in the chair.
1. Turning up late and expecting the full service
Hairdressers work on tight schedules, so if you show up ten minutes late, it throws everything off. The worst part is when someone waltzes in late and still expects the same detailed cut, colour, and blow-dry without a second thought. If you’re running behind, a quick heads-up goes a long way. Just don’t be surprised if they have to tweak what they can do in the time that’s left—there’s only so much magic they can work in a shorter slot.
2. Bringing in an unrealistic inspo pic
Turning up with a photo of a celebrity’s hair isn’t a problem… until it’s completely impossible for your own hair type. If your inspo pic features thick, glossy waves but your hair is fine and straight, no amount of styling is going to make it identical. Hairdressers appreciate a visual reference, but it’s best to go in with an open mind. They can tailor the look to suit your hair, but some transformations just aren’t realistic unless you’re willing to put in serious upkeep.
3. Insisting on a dramatic change, then freaking out
Deciding to chop off all your hair or go platinum blonde is exciting—until reality hits, and suddenly, you’re regretting it before the appointment is even over. Hairdressers can sense hesitation a mile away, and nothing stresses them out more than a client making a huge change they aren’t mentally ready for.
If you’re unsure, start small. Ask for a slightly shorter cut or a few highlights before committing to the full transformation. That way, you can ease into it rather than having a full-on hair panic.
4. Moving your head constantly
Talking with your hands is one thing, but talking with your whole head while someone is cutting your hair? That’s a nightmare. Every unnecessary movement makes their job harder, increases the risk of uneven cuts, and slows everything down. It’s fine to chat, but try to stay as still as possible while they’re working. If they have to keep repositioning your head, it’s probably taking every ounce of patience for them not to sigh dramatically.
5. Expecting them to fix a disaster in one session
Hairdressers love a good transformation, but if you’ve spent months box-dyeing your hair or completely frying it with heat tools, don’t expect them to fix everything in a single visit. Going from black to blonde, or repairing damaged hair, takes time. Be realistic and trust their process. If they say it’ll take multiple sessions, it’s because they don’t want to destroy your hair trying to rush it.
6. Bringing in a full meal
A quick coffee? No problem. A full-on takeaway or something that smells like it could clear the room? Not ideal. Hairdressers are professionals, but even they have limits when it comes to cutting around someone munching away. It’s just not practical (or pleasant) for them to work around someone actively eating. If you’re starving, a small snack beforehand is a much better call.
7. Showing up with matted, product-heavy hair
While you don’t need to turn up with freshly washed hair, rocking up with a week’s worth of dry shampoo, tangles, and styling products isn’t doing anyone any favours. Trying to detangle a full mess before even starting the cut is frustrating and time-consuming. Unless they specifically ask for dirty hair (for certain treatments or styles), showing up with hair that’s relatively clean and tangle-free makes their job much easier — and saves you some painful tugging.
8. Bringing an entire entourage
Bringing a friend for moral support is one thing, but turning up with a full squad? That’s a little much. Hair salons aren’t exactly spacious, and having extra people hovering around can be distracting. If you want a second opinion, one trusted person is fine. But your stylist doesn’t need an audience while they’re trying to focus on giving you their best work.
9. Expecting salon results without the upkeep
If you leave the salon with the perfect bouncy blow-dry but expect it to look the same without doing anything at home, that’s wishful thinking. Hairdressers can work wonders, but they’re not magicians—good hair requires maintenance. Instead of assuming your style will last forever, ask for tips on how to maintain it. They’ll happily recommend products and techniques to keep your hair looking its best between appointments.
10. Arguing about pricing
Good hairdressing takes skill, time, and effort, and prices reflect that. Walking in expecting a full head of highlights for the cost of a supermarket box dye isn’t realistic — and questioning every charge just makes things awkward. If you’re unsure about pricing, ask beforehand. Most salons are upfront about their rates, and many offer consultations so you know exactly what to expect.
11. Asking for a last-minute extra service
Hairdressers plan their schedules carefully, so casually asking for a quick extra cut, treatment, or blow-dry at the last minute isn’t always possible. While they might squeeze it in if they can, it’s not a guarantee. If you think you’ll want something extra, mention it when booking. That way, they can plan for it instead of feeling pressured to rearrange their whole schedule.
12. Disappearing as soon as it’s time to tip
While tipping isn’t mandatory everywhere, in most places, it’s a way to acknowledge a job well done. If you were happy with the service, tipping (even a little) shows your appreciation. Hairdressers notice when people suddenly become “distracted” as they’re paying to avoid tipping. If you genuinely can’t afford to, that’s understandable, but if you’re just dodging it, they’ll probably remember.
