“Only Her Hairdresser Knows For Sure.”

When this slogan was first introduced by Clairol in the 50’s, it spoke to the intimate relationship a woman had with her hairdresser.  This relationship remains to this day one of the most personal in a woman’s life.  However the question now is “Does your current hairdresser know “for sure” about you and your needs when it comes to your hair?  

Even though I am not a hair stylist, our hair is an integral part of our overall image. In order for us to look our very best, our hair must reflect who we are at every stage of our life. In order for our stylist to give us the best service and for us to feel like we are spending our “maintenance dollars” in the best possible way, we must be honest with our stylist and/or if our stylist isn’t asking the right questions of us, we must take the initiative and introduce the subject(s) that are troubling us.  With that in mind, here are a few tips and teasers to get you thinking about what you might want to discuss with your stylist at your next appointment.  

1.  Does she ask about your hair?  “How is this cut working for you?”  “Tell me what’s going on with your hair since you were in last.”

2.  Do you have a thorough discussion with her about what’s required in order to achieve the look you think you want? Are you willing to use the proper products and take the time necessary for the style, or is it too much of a bother? She should be willing to honestly discuss whether a style is appropriate for your face shape and lifestyle, as well as whether the color you want is actually achievable and, as important, appropriate for your coloring.

3.  Does your stylist deep condition your hair (not just the quick condition when they are washing your hair?) This is especially important if you are doing any kind of processing on your hair, whether it is color, bleach, permanent or straightening.

4.  Does your stylist allow enough time for the overall treatment of your hair – including color, conditioning and cut? Sometimes it’s easy to feel like we’re being rushed through the salon, and some things (like color, for instance) just can’t be hurried. Likewise, have YOU allowed enough time in your schedule so you’re not pressuring the stylist to hurry through the process?  (Sometimes, we’re our own worst enemy with our over-booked calendars, yes?!)

5.  Are you doing your part?  Just like with our skin, our hair (and nails) reflect our diet.   Don’t forget your vitamins too – besides your multivitamin, both biotin and primrose oil can be a big boost to your hair and nails.  Are you using the proper equipment (like a boar bristle brush?) Are you deep conditioning once a week – putting a shower cap on and heating it up with your dryer for 10 minutes or so, so the conditioner can penetrate?  Maybe your stylist has given you other guidelines to help maintain the condition and style of your hair – are you following them?

6.  Are you willing to adapt your style and color as you age? Just as we have to modify our color palettes for our clothing somewhat as we age, the same is true for our hair and make-up.  The style and color we’ve always worn just may not be appropriate for us twenty years later. Are you open to discussing this with your stylist so that she can use her talents to make suggestions?

Breaking Up Is Hard to Do…

 Lastly, if you’re not satisfied with your current stylist, maybe you should try someone new.  It’s difficult for us women to even think about “cheating” on our stylist, but it’s also important that we feel we’re getting the very best care and advice possible.  Don’t forget our part in this: we have to be honest with our stylist about our needs and limitations, what we are and are not willing to do, what we are and are not willing to pay. When the communication and cooperation is a two-way street, truly your stylist can know you “for sure” and you’ll be all the happier for it.

— Adena DiTonno

Adena is owner of adenaDesigns, a fashion and wardrobe consultancy in Redwood Shores.