5 Quick Hair Appointment Prep Checklist Items for a Seamless Experience

So you have a hair appointment booked with your stylist. Don’t be anxious, you’re going to reach your hair goals. Many clients have mentioned there’s conflicting information about how to come to your appointment. I’m here to help with a simple checklist of Dos and Don’ts to help you prepare!

When it comes to your hair appointment, certain dos and don’ts can make a significant difference in the outcome of your visit. From preparing your hair to managing your attire, these tips can help ensure a smooth and successful experience. By following the below guidelines, you can make the most of your appointment and achieve the results you desire. Keep in mind the advice in this article is for immediate preparation on the day of your appointment, not long-term considerations.

List of Do’s

1. Arrive On Time for your Appointment:
   Punctuality is key to maintaining a smooth schedule for both you and your stylist. Arriving on time for your appointment allows for proper consultation and ensures there’s ample time to achieve your desired results for your hair.
2. Wear Suitable Clothing:
   Consider wearing comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting color on, like old shirts or easily changeable outfits. Some stylists might also appreciate clothes that look good in photos for their portfolio.
3. Communicate Changes:
   If you’ve had any changes in your hair or health since the initial consultation, inform your stylist. This could include recent color treatments, changes in medication, or other factors that might impact the coloring process.
4. Bring Entertainment:
   During the appointment, stay engaged in the process. Enjoy your time in the chair by communicating with your stylist, providing feedback and asking questions to ensure you’re on the same page regarding the color outcome. If you are an introvert (like myself), bring your phone, tablet or a book.
5. Bring Snacks & Hydration:
   Bringing snacks and a bottle of water to stay hydrated to a hair appointment can be a good idea, especially if you expect the appointment to be lengthy or if your appointment is during a meal time. Proper hydration is important for both your overall well-being and the health of your hair.

List of Don’ts

1. Wear…:
   Avoid wearing white or clothing with high collars, like turtlenecks or hoodies, to your hair appointment to prevent color or hair product stains. These items can also create uneven surfaces, potentially interfering with the haircut process and resulting in an uneven cut.
2. Come with Dry/Unclean Hair:
   While this might vary based on your stylist’s preference, generally having clean, dry hair on the day of the appointment allows the color to adhere better and ensures an accurate representation of the desired shade. It can be washed the day before or that morning.
3. Make Drastic Changes Right Before Your Appointment:
   Making drastic changes to your hair, such as a drastic color change or a new haircut, just before your hair appointment can be risky. It’s best to discuss major changes with your stylist in advance to ensure you’re both on the same page.
4. Use Hair Oils:
   Avoid using hair oils or heavy products 2–3 days before your appointment to ensure your hair is clean and receptive to coloring or styling. These products can create a barrier on the hair shaft, which can interfere with the coloring process and making it harder for your stylist to achieve the desired results.
5. Change Your Service On The Day Of:
   Give your stylist 48–72 hours’ notice to change your service, as changes on the day can be challenging. Check early, discuss with your stylist, and be flexible. If needed, reschedule your hair appointment considering costs, and keep communication open for a positive experience. Changing from a longer to a shorter service may affect your stylist’s income, so communicate changes early to avoid issues.

By keeping these dos and don’ts in mind, you can set the stage for a successful and enjoyable experience. Additionally, please ask your stylist for specific advice or guidelines tailored to your unique needs. Ultimately, being mindful of these tips and seeking input from your stylist can contribute to a positive outcome and leave you feeling satisfied with your visit to the salon.

The dos and don’ts in this article are for immediate preparation on the day of your appointment, not long-term planning. If you’re seeking advice specifically tailored to preparing for a color appointment or your future hair goals, you might find more detailed guidance in this article.