Life is full of changes, there’s no growth if there isn’t change, but sometimes those changes are more frustrating and difficult than good. Whether you’ve moved or your stylist has, changing hair stylists can be very trying. You can end up with horrible results or, if you choose wisely, you can discover how truly great change can be.

We know you want to be in the latter category and we’re here to help you find a stylist that will leave you happier with your hair than ever before.

Tips for finding a new hair stylist

These tips for finding a new stylist are so great, you might not even want to wait until someone moves, you can use them to find a better stylist just down the street from your old one.

1. Get the details

Ask your old hair stylist what they usually do to your hair. If they can copy your customer card for you, that would be the best. It will list everything they’ve ever done and what they’re doing now. You get details on custom colors you’ve had and cuts you’ve tried, and whether you came back for the same one or wanted a new one.

Your hair history gives a new stylist all they need to recreate your current style or find a new one without having to go through any trial and error.

2. Bring photos

We live in a world where we take photos constantly. You probably take one every time you leave the salon, or sometimes when you’re still in it.

Bring these photos to your prospective new stylist. Bring both good and bad photos so you can point out what you liked and what you didn’t like. Sometimes telling them things you don’t like is more useful than telling them what you did like.

3. Get referrals

If you trust your friends or like their hair, ask them where they go. They know you, so they might be able to point you in the right direction.

While referrals from friends and family can help, online referrals shouldn’t be ignored. Sometimes an online referral can give you more information than a friend.

Just remember to look at good and bad reviews, the hair stylist has friends and family who have probably written some glowing reviews.

4. Social media

Most salons today don’t just have a website, they have a social media presence as well, and that can tell you a whole lot about their stylists, their approach, and the vibe in the salon. Check them all out, and look for the most interesting and appealing salons or stylists.

5. Hold auditions

Rather than getting your regular treatment, go for something small and audition the stylist. See if you get along and if they listen to you. Ask how they work, what products they use, and ask them how they’d approach your hair.

6. Find a specialist

Your hair has a unique personality, whether you have a natural afro or stick straight thin hair, there’s a specialist out there who knows how to handle your hair. It’s up to you to find them. Call around to see if the salons near you have specialists in your hair type.

7. Know what you want (or have)

Asking for someone who can cut a layered bob is about as useful as asking for ice cream and expecting to get rocky road. It’s all about the hair terminology and knowing what the trends are, what you want, and how to ask for it.

8. Check the products they use

If you only use all-natural products or you have a favorite brand, check to see what salons have your preferred products. Or you can check on the website for the manufacturer of your favorite products, and they will often have a supplier list of salons in your area.

Final thoughts

Having a great stylist that listens to you and that you can trust can mean everything when it comes to how you look. Getting the right haircut and color doesn’t just make you look better, it can make you feel better, too.

Whether you’re moving to a new area, your stylist is moving or retiring, or you just aren’t happy with your current cut, the tips listed above will help you find a new stylist that really gets you.

Just remember that while these tips are useful, there should be a trial run to see how your personalities fit. A great hair stylist is not just someone who understands your hair but is one who is able to listen to you and translate what you’re picturing in your head into something real.