Tried of Hidden Fees? Have you ever left the salon with amazing hair but a bill that was greater than you anticipated? I have, too and let me tell you it can be rather frustrating. However, in an ideal world, salon workers would be upfront about each charge – but this isn’t always the case.
If you’ve developed a good relationship with your stylist over time, running into this situation is unusual. Personal at the Curl 5 hair braiding studio I like to avoid these situations by letting my customer know the entire cost of the service upfront and providing a pricing chart for them.
However, this isn’t always the case, and if you end up going to a new location, it’s quite probable that hidden costs may be added to the cost of your appointment. For example, after you’ve washed your hair, the kind shampooer or hairstylist may inform you that it’s excessively dried out and needs a moisturizing treatment.
They may promise that it will just take a few extra minutes and that you will be considerably better for it. The vast majority of the time, these additional “add-on treatments” will cost more money. As clients, we can sometimes feel intimidated asking for what we want or letting the stylist know what we DON’T want, but it is important to speak our minds rather than allow the stylist to upcharge for services we do not want – So go ahead and respectfully speak your mind.
When a salon offers a service, they should inform the customer up front about the price in the beginning. Most salons do this as I am sure they want their clients to be happy since they want them to return. I know I would want that for my clients. Just be wary if you hear the word “treatment,” it may indicate an extended session at the sink and added cost to your bill. Also, by mindful about changing your hairstyle at the last minute as this can cause the price of your service to go up as well.
Another example of hidden fees is when you may be getting your hair blow-dried, but it’s long, thick, and curly so there is an up charge for the length and thickness of your hair. As a natural hair stylist, I can speak from personal experience, this takes twice as long than regular appointment and will cost you extra. If you want to avoid this upcharge wash and blow dye your hair before going to the salon.
There are a few other surprising places to be careful of with extra charges. One is when you’re getting a significant hair color change. It may take anywhere from two to many lightning-like strokes to get the desired color. To obtain the result you desire, you might need to add dimension with lowlights unexpectedly. The colorist may not always be able to anticipate these things.
There is a lot to consider to aviod hidden fees
So here’s a list of the the most common fees to watch out for, along with tips for how to avoid them:
Dimensional Effects –This has to do with coloring your hair in a complex manner. Inquire about the kind of color treatments that your stylist offers and the price for them.
Long Hair – If you’re looking for a bargain, inquire if the salon charges an additional fee. Many salons charge surcharges that range from $5 to $20.
Hair Texture –Some salons have varying price structures based on the texture and thickness of your hair. Until they were actually sued for it, one salon charged an “Ethnic Fee” on services to clients with thick or textured hair. Those with thick or textured hair might need more time in the chair because their locks can be hard to manage.
Packages – If you pay for a “package” at a hair salon, especially if you are recruited off the street (the recruiter gets a commission that may be passed on to you), double-check exactly what services the package price covers. Packages can frequently help you save money, but only if the services being offered are ones you want.
Curling Iron/Flat Iron – “Additional styling” is a term that may be used to describe the many different styles and haircuts available at Barbershop. Most of the time when you walk into any barbershop, it’s apparent what type of finished style they offer and how much it cost. This is not always the case so be sure to look out for a pricing guide. The same applies for beauty salons, look for a pricing chart before getting started with any hairstyle. If there is no pricing chart the price should be determined according to a discussion between the stylist and client.
Deep Conditioning – Conditioning treatments are only supplementary. Before you start, inquire about the kind and price of the treatment. It is possible that after a deep conditioning service styling can also cost extra which can be a problem for some.
Cancellations – Be wary of last-minute cancellations. If you cancel any time within a specific time frame, many salons will charge you an cancellation fee (a percentage of the service fee is usually charged if you cancel within 24 hours, with some charging up to a full service fee for cancellations made within a week).
Late Arrival Fees – If you’re a frequent tardy, check to see whether your salon charges for late arrivals. Also, be sure you won’t miss your appointment. The last thing a stylist wants to do is wait around for no-show, it is a waste of their time and it affects their bottom line.
Guarantees – You may get your hair done for a lower rate by finding out what the pricing is before you arrive. Perhaps they will redo it for free or at a discount if you are dissatisfied with the service. If you’re a tough client, or if you’re trying the salon for the first time, keep this in mind.
In conclusion, there are many things to consider before you jump into a new or long-term relationship with a salon. Salons must be able to communicate effectively and honestly with their customers. Remember, if you are unhappy with the salon service, don’t feel obligated to continue.
Save your money for something more important, like your next trip 😉