Choosing a new hair salon can feel like a big decision—whether you’re after a simple trim, a bold color transformation, or that perfect blowout. With a world of options out there, how do you pick the right salon that not only meets your needs but gives you the confidence boost you’re looking for? Here’s a quick guide to finding the best hair salon for you.

1. Start with Social Media: Instagram, Pinterest & Facebook

Social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook are gold mines for salon scouting. Most salons showcase their work on these platforms, providing real-time examples of their style, skills, and services. Check out hashtags like #balayage, #haircut, or #hairstylist alongside your location (#NYChairstylist, for example) to explore what local salons are up to.

Pro Tip: Look for photos of styles similar to what you want. You’ll get a sneak peek at the skills of a salon’s team, and you can see if their work resonates with your personal style. And if a salon’s account is frequently updated with happy clients and skillful transformations, that’s a good sign of a committed, detail-oriented team!

2. Yelp and Google Reviews: The Power of Honest Feedback

Yelp and Google Reviews are essential for seeing real opinions from clients. These reviews are often detailed, discussing everything from the salon’s atmosphere to the skill and friendliness of its stylists. Look for salons with consistently high ratings and take note of how they respond to both positive and negative feedback.

What to Look For: Are clients mentioning specific stylists for certain services? Are there comments about the customer service, cleanliness, and punctuality of the salon? Some reviewers even share photos of their results, which can be super helpful in visualizing what you might experience.

3. Word of Mouth: Compliment and Connect

Sometimes the best way to find a great salon is by simply asking someone whose hair you admire. If you’re out and about and see someone with hair you love, don’t be shy—most people will happily share where they go and even recommend their stylist. This gives you a real-life example of what a stylist can do and can save you hours of researching online.

Why it Works: Personal recommendations are often the most trustworthy. Hearing first-hand what someone loves about their stylist and salon can give you a genuine feel for what you can expect.

4. Check Out Salon Websites and Price Lists

Once you’ve identified a few salons that look promising, visit their websites. Here, you can usually find a list of services, prices, and sometimes even stylist profiles. Many salons also include booking policies, which can help you plan your visit.

Things to Note: Look for any specialty services you need, like color corrections, extensions, or bridal styling. Knowing what a salon offers and their pricing up front can help you make a more informed decision and avoid surprises later.

5. Schedule a Consultation First

Most salons offer free or low-cost consultations. This is a fantastic opportunity to get a feel for the salon and meet with a stylist without fully committing to a service. At the consultation, be clear about what you’re looking for and see how the stylist responds.

Why It’s Important: A consultation lets you gauge how well the stylist listens, provides advice, and aligns with your expectations. It’s also a great time to assess the vibe of the salon itself—do you feel comfortable, welcomed, and at ease?

6. Look for Versatility and Continued Education

A quality salon values professional growth and continued education, which helps stylists stay updated on new techniques and trends. Salons that actively train their team and support ongoing learning often display certificates or mention this on their website or social profiles. Also, look for free or discounted services on SalonApprentice.com.

Bonus Tip: Look for salons that showcase a variety of styles, from classic cuts to bold colors. A team that’s versatile can adapt to your changing preferences over time.

7. Test the Waters with a Simple Service First

If you’re feeling confident about a salon but aren’t quite ready for a big commitment, try them out with a small service first, like a trim or blowout. This can give you a feel for the salon’s quality of service, atmosphere, and how well they match your expectations.