You’re settled in the chair, the cape is fastened, and your stylist is about to work their magic. As you admire your fresh look in the mirror, a familiar question pops into your head: how much should I tip? It’s a common moment of uncertainty, but a little guidance can make it easy to show your appreciation for a job well done.
The Standard Tipping Amount for Hair Stylists
For good, standard service, the general rule of thumb is to tip between 15% and 20% of the total service cost. This is the baseline for showing your stylist you’re happy with their work. If your haircut and color came to $100, a 20% tip would be $20. This percentage is calculated on the pre-tax total of the services they personally performed.
When to Consider Tipping More
Sometimes, your stylist goes above and beyond. If you’re a new client with particularly challenging hair, or if your stylist expertly executes a complex color correction, consider tipping 25% or more. This extra amount is a wonderful way to acknowledge their extra time, skill, and patience. It also helps build a strong, positive relationship for future appointments.
Navigating Tipping at a Salon
What about the other people who help you? It’s considerate to tip the assistant who shampoos your hair a few dollars, typically $3 to $5. If multiple stylists work on you—perhaps one for color and another for the cut—tip each one individually based on the cost of their specific service. Most salons now allow you to add a tip when you pay by card, but having a little cash on hand is always a safe bet.
What If You Own the Salon?
This is a common point of confusion. While some salon owners do not accept tips, many still do. The best approach is to simply ask. You can say, “Do you accept tips?” This is a polite and direct way to know the proper etiquette for that specific business.
At its heart, tipping your hair stylist is about recognizing their expertise and the personal care they provide. It’s a direct thank you for helping you look and feel your best. By following these simple guidelines, you can confidently show your appreciation and ensure a great salon experience for everyone involved.