General Rule of Thumb:
When it comes to tipping your hairdresser, there is no single answer. Generally, it’s recommended that you tip between 15 and 20 percent of the cost of the service. For example, if you paid $30 for a haircut, then you should leave a tip of at least $4.50. If you are particularly pleased with the service or feel that the hairdresser went above and beyond, then you may want to leave a larger tip.
Who Should You Tip?
Most people tip the hairdresser who provides the service, but if you have a long-term relationship with a specific stylist, then you may want to tip them directly. If you’re in a salon where there is a receptionist, shampoo specialist, colorist, or assistant, then it’s also polite to tip each of them separately. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you can opt to just tip the hairdresser.
When Should You Tip?
You should tip at the end of the service, after you’ve had a chance to check out the results. If you’re paying with cash, then you should leave the tip with the hairdresser. If you’re paying with a credit or debit card, then you can add the tip to the bill. If you’ve had a particularly complicated service and you’re not sure how much to tip, you can ask the hairdresser for advice.
What Are Some Other Tips for Tipping?
If you’re a regular customer, then you may want to tip a bit more to show your appreciation for the quality service that you’ve received. If you’ve received a discount on the service, then you should still tip the same percentage of the regular cost. If you’re getting a service that you’ve never had before and you’re not sure how much to tip, then you can ask the hairdresser for advice.
How Much Should You Tip for Color Services?
If you’re getting a color service, such as highlights or lowlights, then you should tip between 20 and 25 percent. This is because color services typically take longer than a simple haircut and require more skill and precision. If you’re getting an especially complicated color service, such as balayage or ombre, then you should tip up to 30 percent.
What If You Don’t Have Cash?
If you don’t have cash on hand, then you can still leave a tip. You can write a check or add the tip to your credit or debit card payment. If you’re paying with a check, then you should write the check out to the hairdresser. If you’re paying with a debit or credit card, then you can specify the tip when you pay.
What If You’re Unhappy with the Service?
If you’re unhappy with the service, then you should still leave a tip. However, you should leave a smaller tip than you would if you were happy with the service. You should also be sure to speak with the hairdresser to let them know that you weren’t happy with the results. This will help ensure that you get better results the next time you visit.
The Bottom Line
Tipping your hairdresser is an important part of the salon experience. It’s a way to show your appreciation for the quality service that you’ve received. When it comes to tipping, there is no single answer. Generally, it’s recommended that you tip between 15 and 20 percent of the cost of the service. If you’re getting a color service, then you should tip up to 30 percent. Remember, if you’re unhappy with the service, then you should still leave a tip, but you should be sure to speak with the hairdresser to let them know that you weren’t happy with the results.