I’ve had many a pair of hands in my head, and some I’ve liked more than others.  When I started the discussion; What do you like or dislike about your hairdresser, the responses ranged from one end of the spectrum to the other.

Punctuality, professionalism, time management (double booking), answering the phone during service, creativity, ability to listen, and the cleanliness of the salon were some of the responses that were thrown out there.

It’s a wonder that anyone still goes to a salon if they have to put up with this kind of behavior.

I’m a Beautician, Not A Magician

Going to a reputable salon and finding a stylist that is a perfect match for you is possible, it just requires a little effort on your part.  Have a clear idea of what you are looking for, and be realistic.  It is nothing more frustrating than a client with unrealistic expectations, and a hairdresser that can live up to them.

Speak Now or Forever Sit There

We each get 24 hours in a day, if we are lucky.  For a technician to double book their clients it is unprofessional and greedy. One could argue that ‘people do make appointments and then don’t show up’, and this may be the case.  Salons that have a high rate of no-shows could try operating on a walk ins welcome, first come first serve basis.

I remember my first experience with a double booking.  I showed up for my 10 am  appointment with a hairdresser (that shall remain nameless), and another woman came in the salon and had a 10 am with the same person.  I started looking at her, and she started looking back at me, and then we both looked at him like he was crazy. Needless to say I lost that battle.  She definitely pulled rank, as a weekly standing appointment. Hey, at least he valued his loyal clients.

It’s A Sign Of The Times

Are they keeping up with the trends in hair dressing, or do they pride themselves on having graduated in 1980 from beauty school and never taken another class? Sites such as Citysearch, Yelp, Salon & Spa, and the up and coming E Salon Space, are all designed to help you find a hairdresser in your area that is keeping up with current trends and safety regulations.

Do You Understand The Words That Are Coming Out Of My Mouth?

Communication is very important in any relationship, and having your hair dresser 100% understand your goal for your hair, that’s major.  Be specific in communicating your ideas.  Bring pictures, visual aids work wonders in helping get your point across.  Be consistent, set a regular routine and stick to it.

This Place Is A Mess

An unsanitary salon is not acceptable. It not only puts you at risk and potentially endagers your health, but it is also a direct violation of state board regulations. Here are a few things to look for: Are the combs and brushes cleaned and soaked in barbicide after each use, do they wipe down their entire station in between clients, are they sweeping up the hair and disposing of it properly?  Just a little something something to think about when choosing a hairdresser. When is enough, enough when it comes to your technician? Please share your thoughts.

Well the Wikipedia definition of an esthetician is as follows:
“Cosmetology (from Greek ??????????, kosm?tikos, “skilled in adornment”[1]; and -?????, -logia) is the study and application of beauty treatment. Branches of specialty including hairstyling, skin care, cosmetics, manicures/pedicures, and electrology”.

In plain English an esthetician is a trained and licensed technician that provides limited services in the field of cosmetology. Including but not limited to Waxing,Lash Extensions, Facials, & Makeup Application.

With-in the Esthetician Community there also exists branches of specialty training. Medical Esthetician, Facialist, Wax Technician, Master Esthetician, and Aesthetician vs. Esthetician. In the U.S. each state’s cosmetology board sets the rules and regulations for that individual state.

Medical Esthetician- Individual that has received minimum state requirements and additional training. They typically work in medical spas under the care of a licensed physician performing services such as: Laser Hair Removal, Chemical Peels, and Fraxel etc.

Facialist- Is an easier way to say esthetician. A person that performs facial and waxing services.

Wax Technician- Is an individual that is licensed by that state to perform waxing services only.

Master Esthetician- This is the creme-de-la-creme of estheticians. For example in the state of Virginia a master esthetician has to complete 1200 clock hours. This individual can practice chemical peels, micro-dermabrasion, and other treatments that are typically practiced under the care of a licensed physician.

Aesthetician vs. Esthetician- Well they mean exactly the same thing and use of the A vs. E is a regional thing.