How do I prepare my hair for a haircut?

Author: Dr. Eldred Abshire II  |  Last update: Saturday, June 7, 2025

If you're planning to get a haircut, washing your hair beforehand can be crucial. Clean hair gives your stylist a better view of your hair's natural fall and texture. Choosing the Right Shampoo: Use a shampoo that suits your hair type. For color-treated hair, opt for a color-safe shampoo to prevent fading.

Should hair be clean or dirty before haircut?

Washing hair before a haircut is generally recommended for several reasons: Cleanliness: Clean hair is easier to work with. It removes product buildup, dirt, and oils that can interfere with the cutting process.

What not to do before getting a haircut?

Before You Go
  1. Minimize Hair Products.
  2. Bring Photos.
  3. Leave the Hoodie At Home.
  4. Don't Fib About Your Hair History.
  5. Keep Your Hair Type in Mind.

Should you put product in your hair before a haircut?

To ensure that your haircut goes smoothly, it's a good idea to come prepared with clean hair that is free of styling products. This will make it easier for your barber to work with your hair and achieve the desired style.

Should hair be wet before haircut?

Most hair types will benefit from being cut when wet. It helps clump the hair together so you get a more precise, even cut. Cutting dry hair can also be damaging to the very expensive shears that stylists use, as well as being potentially damaging to the hair itself.

Lala's Styling Prep Tool How to

Is it OK to shower before a haircut?

Washing your hair beforehand removes excess oils, product buildup, and any environmental impurities, allowing for a smoother and more precise haircut. Easier Styling: If you have a particular hairstyle in mind, washing your hair before the cut can make styling more manageable.

Is a dry haircut better?

With thicker, curlier tresses, dry-cutting techniques can be extremely beneficial to avoid that shrinking effect that can come after a wet cut. "The more textured or higher density the hair type, the more crucial your cutting method needs to be," says Grupp.

How to prep hair for a haircut?

If you're planning to get a haircut, washing your hair beforehand can be crucial. Clean hair gives your stylist a better view of your hair's natural fall and texture. Choosing the Right Shampoo: Use a shampoo that suits your hair type. For color-treated hair, opt for a color-safe shampoo to prevent fading.

Do hairstylists like when you bring pictures?

Bringing a picture helps clarify exactly what you want. Describing a hairstyle verbally can be tricky—one person's “soft layers” may mean something completely different to someone else. By showing a picture, you're able to provide your Solihull Hairdresser with an exact idea of the look you're going for.

How much to tip a hairdresser?

A 20% tip may be standard, but the percentage can vary. More complex jobs or a stylist that went above and beyond might merit a bigger tip. If service was poor, a little less might be appropriate.

What not to say to your hair stylist?

8 Common Phrases You Say To Your Hair Stylist That Are Actually Rude
  • “My previous stylist messed up my hair.”
  • “Sorry, I didn't come prepared today.”
  • “My haircut looks fine.”
  • “Can I have a discount?”
  • “I don't care what you do with my hair.”
  • “Let me tell you all about [insert deeply personal issue here].”

How do I prepare my hair before a hairstyle?

How to prep your hair before styling
  1. Step 1: Oil. A hair oil is a great way to intensely moisturise dry strands and is super effective in adding shine. ...
  2. Step 2: Shampoo. Bumble and bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Shampoo 250ml. ...
  3. Step 3: Conditioner. ...
  4. Step 4: Mask. ...
  5. Step 5: Brush. ...
  6. Step 6: Prime. ...
  7. 5 Myths About Fake Tan.

Do hairdressers prefer clean hair?

While some hair types may hold better the second or third day of washing, in most cases it's best to visit the salon with clean, dry hair. Despite what you may have heard before proms and formal dances back in the day, it's actually preferable to work with hair that is free of oil and buildup.

Should I brush my hair out before a haircut?

Brushing also allows the barber to see the natural length and condition of your hair, which can help in planning the cut. Furthermore, removing tangles beforehand can save time during your appointment, ensuring a more efficient and pleasant experience.

How often should you get a haircut?

When you ask a stylist, “How often should I trim my hair?,” the most common timeframe is every six to eight weeks. However, this isn't a one-size-fits-all (or, more to the point, a one-haircut-fits-all) deal. Here's what to consider when figuring out when it's time for your next chop.

Should I wash my hair before dying it if it has product in it?

**Even Application**: Clean hair ensures that there is no buildup of products like hairspray, gel, or dry shampoo, which can create a barrier that prevents the color from being applied evenly. If there is too much buildup, it can lead to patchy or uneven coloring.

Do hairdressers like when you talk to them?

It's a common stereotype that hairdressers love a good chat, and there's some truth behind it. For one, hairdressing is a highly social job that involves close personal interaction. Hairdressers, like the friendly team at Salon No. 100, are often experts in making clients feel comfortable from the moment they sit down.

Is it rude to not wash hair before a haircut?

In order to avoid confusion, if you're going in for JUST a haircut, it's okay to skip washing prior to your appointment. Your stylist may prefer to cut your hair dry, or simply want to wash it themselves.

Should I do anything to my hair before a haircut?

If you're just going in for a trim, then there's no need to wash your hair. For more drastic cuts, washing your hair beforehand will make it easier for your barber to see your natural hair color and texture. When in doubt, ask your barber what they prefer.

How do I prepare my hair for a hairdresser?

Clean Hair.

Wash your hair the day before your appointment especially if you're having a colour, as dirty hair will take longer to lift, or be more resistant to taking colour and coverage will be hindered. Greasy hair will make the hair look darker and cooler than its true colour.

What not to do before a hair appointment?

Having your hair too clean when you go to the salon is not the best idea. On the other hand, hair with too much oil and products is not safe for hair health. Don't use too many hair products such as styling gels or mousses on the same day you want to get your hair done.

Is it better to cut hair clean or dirty?

Product buildup can make hair slippery and hard to section, while natural oils can cause clumping. Clean hair allows for precise, confident cuts, resulting in a sharper, more polished look.

What scissors to cut hair?

The 7 best hair scissors and shears to buy
  • The Equinox Professional Razor Edge Series 6.5” ...
  • Sanguine Professional 5.5” Hairdressing Shears. ...
  • ULG Hair Thinning 6.5” Scissors. ...
  • Jaguar Lane 5.5 Inch Scissors. ...
  • Tweezerman Spirit 2000 Styling Shears. ...
  • Cricket Shear Xpressions. ...
  • Feather razor.

Why do hairdressers cut into the ends of hair?

This technique helps to soften blunt lines, remove bulk, and add dimension to the hair, resulting in a more natural and textured look.

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