Suggested tip: 20 Percent
The standard tipping amount for hair styling services — including cuts, styling, and coloring — is 20 percent, and this typically remains the same no matter how intricate the service is. "A 20 percent tip for a blowdry is appropriate because some hair textures are more time-consuming and the stylist has to have expertise to manipulate the hair to a beautiful blowout," says Seattle-based hair stylist and salon owner Yvey Valcin.
However, for most hair stylists, tipping goes beyond how well the stylist performs the service. "Simply having the skills to cut, style, and color the hair isn't enough to warrant a higher tip," says Valcin. "My philosophy is that clients should feel like they're the most important person when sitting in my chair. Having the skills and expertise is a baseline, but being able to create space for each person is what really makes clients feel special and beautiful."
Things like knowing what kind of magazine you like, providing the kind of tea, coffee, or water you enjoy, having the station ready, and remembering details of past conversations are all details that communicate how much your stylist values you, and may warrant a higher tip. "In my experience, the relationship my clients have with me dictates the tips I receive, not the services," says Valcin. "Clients recognize when a stylist goes above and beyond for them."
