What can I do if my hairdresser ruined my hair?

Author: Kendra Towne  |  Last update: Friday, December 26, 2025

If this has happened to you, the first thing to do is to seek medical attention if you haven't already done so, especially if you're worried about scalp burns or you're in severe pain. If you can, take photographs of the damage sustained, note details of your appointments and keep any damaged hair lost.

What are my rights if my hairdresser ruined my hair?

Since you've already spent a significant amount on the service and products, this can be included in your claim. It's advisable to formally write to the salon detailing the issue and seeking a resolution, whether it's a refund, compensation for the damage, or cost of treatment to rectify the damage.

What do you do when your hairdresser messes up your hair?

Instead, calmly explain how you feel about your hair and give your stylist a chance to make it right. Many stylists will fix your fair for free if you tell them right away when you’re still in their chair.

What happens if a hairdresser ruins your hair?

It basically tells you to document the damage and then let the hairdresser attempt to fix it. If they refuse or can not fix it, or you can argue that the hairdresser is not competent enough to fix it. You can turn to another hairdresser to have it done. Then demand that money from the stylist that ruined your hair.

Do you have to pay if a hairdresser messes up your hair?

In most cases yes. The stylist should offer to correct the problem. If you refuse to let them fix the problem you are still expected to pay legally. If you have a service done and do not pay for any reason the stylist can file theft of services charges to get the money.

What Can I Do if a Stylist Ruined My Hair?

Can I sue a salon for damaging my hair?

It's common to be involved in an incident and not be aware for hours or even days that you suffered an injury. Beauty salons are no exception, and you have every right to sue. They pose multiple risks, including but not limited to: Reactions to chemicals in hair dyes and body products.

How to get money back from a hairdresser?

If a service was not provided with reasonable care and skill or as agreed, the service provider must put things right within a reasonable time and at their own cost. If this isn't practical, you should get some or all of your money back within 14 days of agreeing to a refund.

Can salons fix damaged hair?

Damaged hair or strands that are feeling a little lacklustre can be brought back to life through professional salon treatments and an at-home routine with restorative products. Speak with a stylist to find a routine that's best for your hair type and the damage it has.

What to do if you hate your hair after a salon?

Don't D.I.Y. Maybe you weren't so sure how you felt in the chair, but don't try to fix it yourself with sewing scissors. Collect your thoughts and call the salon to explain your feelings and give them a chance for a do-over. They want to help just as much as you want to be helped.

Can you dispute bad haircut?

If your haircut is so appalling that the only option is to shave it all off and start over, then you can legitimately ask for compensation to reflect the severity of the situation. Compensation can involve payments for: Correcting the error.

How to tell your hairdresser they messed up?

Separate the Issue

If you want to preserve the relationship with your stylist, this should be specific, so that they have the opportunity for repair. Try to see beyond how you feel about the look and work towards labeling specifically why you don't like it. Is it too short? Too light/dark?

What not to say to a hairdresser?

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].”

Is it rude to ask a hairdresser to fix hair after?

If you walk out unhappy—without saying anything—your stylist misses the chance to fix the issue. In most cases, they'd prefer you let them know so they can address it promptly. According to a 2022 industry survey, 86% of stylists say they'd rather clients voice concerns immediately rather than stay silent.

What to do if a stylist messes up your hair?

Talk with your stylist.

Ferrara agrees. "Most salons have a one-week policy for a client to have an adjustment to their cut or color free of charge," she says. "Don't feel timid about going back.

Can you get compensation for a bad haircut?

Therefore, having a haircut that you don't like won't entitle you to compensation. However, if you have suffered burn injuries, blisters, cuts and bruises or have experienced hair damage such as brittle hair or loss of hair, then you may be able to make a claim.

Can you sue for hair loss?

Through a product liability claim, you can seek monetary compensation for these damages. You may have searched everywhere for tips on “what to do if my hair falls out from a defective product.” Filing a lawsuit is one option. Hair loss is a clear example of actual harm from a defective product.

What to do if you are unhappy with your hairdresser?

If you're unhappy, then absolutely get in touch. “If you don't want to raise it with the same hairdresser, speak to the manager of the salon and explain that you're not massively comfortable going back to that person.

Can you sue a hair salon for ruining your hair?

Even though the injury may be small, the client may still decide to file a lawsuit. Burned or Damaged Hair – Can you sue a hairdresser for damaging your hair? The short answer is yes. If a hairdresser doesn't use chemicals or tools properly, the client's hair may be damaged or burned, leading to a lawsuit.

How soon can I recolor my hair if I don't like the color?

Generally speaking though, it's best to wait 4-6 weeks before having another color treatment – in most cases, this is enough anyway and reduces the risk of hair damage. There are some exceptions, but in general, it's better to err on the side of caution and wait for this long.

How do I get my money back from bad hairdresser?

Approaching the Salon and Customer Service

Effective communication is vital to a successful refund request. Clarity, politeness, and understanding of the salon's refund policy can guide this process. If you have left a bad review, addressing it with the salon directly may lead to a resolution.

What is the most damaging hair treatment?

Chemical Perms

They work by breaking the bonds of the hair shaft in order to reform it, leaving your hair vulnerable and susceptible to damage. Still craving curls? We vote “go professional” and have an expert apply a perm for you—that way you can avoid over damaging your hair.

Can damaged hair really be repaired?

The short answer is no. Most hair damage is permanent, and the only way to fix the issue is to cut it off and start anew. You can't physically splice together split ends, but some hair care products on the market contain potent nutrients that can help you achieve visually healthier-looking hair.

Do you still have to pay if a stylist messes up your hair?

In most cases yes. The stylist should offer to correct the problem. If you refuse to let them fix the problem you are still expected to pay legally.

How to ask for a discount after bad service?

Be Specific: Clearly state what inconvenience you experienced and how it affected you. Be Reasonable: Request a specific form of compensation that you feel is fair. This could be a refund, discount, free service, or other suitable recompense. Remain Professional: Keep your tone polite and professional.

What can I do if a company won't give me a refund?

If you can't get the support you need from the retailer in the form of a refund, repair or replacement, you can file a complaint with the company. If that still doesn't help, you can contact the Consumer Ombudsman. They'll aim to help resolve your dispute within 10 working days.

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