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Buyer's guide0 listed

Compare salons, barbers and day spas

People choosing a salon, a barber or a day spa.

Short answer

How do you choose a salon, barber or day spa?

When you choose a salon, barber or day spa, look for licensed staff, prices you can see before you book, and a clear booking and cancellation policy. Compare salons on the services and specialties you need, pricing, booking terms, hygiene and whether they offer a consultation first.

The OpenlyCompared guide to salons, barbers and day spas explains what to compare, which questions to ask and which warning signs to look for. The first companies are being checked before they are listed.

Which salons, barbers and spas are listed?

We are verifying the first companies for this guide. Each listing is built from facts the company has published, and checked before it goes up.

What should you compare when choosing a salon, barber or day spa?

Licensed staffStylists, barbers and estheticians should hold the state license their work requires.
Services and specialtiesLook for experience with your hair type, the color work you want, or the treatment you need.
Prices you can seeA menu with starting prices, and a clear note on what changes the price.
Booking and cancellationKnow the deposit, the cancellation window and any late fees before you book.
HygieneClean tools, fresh linens and visible sanitizing are worth noticing on your first visit.
A consultationFor color and bigger changes, a consultation first avoids surprises.

What should you ask before choosing a salon, barber or day spa?

  • Do you work with my hair type or the service I want?
  • What is the price range for this service, and what changes it?
  • Is there a deposit, and what is the cancellation policy?
  • Can I book a consultation first?
  • Can I see recent work for this service?

What are the warning signs when choosing a salon, barber or day spa?

  • No prices anywhere before you book
  • Unlicensed staff for licensed services
  • Deposit and cancellation rules that only appear after booking
  • No photos of recent work for the service you want

Frequently asked questions about salons, barbers and day spas

How do I find the right hair stylist?

To find the right hair stylist, look at the stylist's recent work for the service you want, and book a consultation before color or a big change.

Why do salon prices vary so much?

Salon prices vary with hair length and thickness, the products used and the stylist's experience. Ask the salon for a price range for your service before you book.

What is a normal salon cancellation policy?

Many salons ask for a day or two of notice to cancel an appointment, and some charge a fee for late cancellations. Read the salon's cancellation policy before you book.

Should I tip at a salon or barber?

Tipping customs at salons and barbers vary by place. Some salons include service in the price, so ask the salon if you are unsure.

How this page works: companies are listed by the method on our Methodology page. Companies marked “Toutmark client” pay Toutmark, which publishes OpenlyCompared; paying never buys a position or an award. Request a correction.