Switching To A Different Hairdresser At The Same Salon Without It Being Awkward

The connection between a hairdresser and a client is an important one. You may only see your hairdresser every 6 weeks to 3 months — just in case you're not sure how often you should really be getting a haircut — but over time, a relationship builds. A good hairdresser — and one you'll want to keep coming back to — gets to know you and your hair. They also know what looks best on you, as well as the cut and style that works for your lifestyle. Going back to the same hairdresser means you don't have to take a lot of time explaining yourself and what you want — after a few visits, they should already know. You'll also literally be building a relationship with them in the time that it takes to cut, style, and potentially color your hair.

Sometimes, though, things may not work out between you and your stylist in the long term. You might be eyeing another hairdresser in the same salon as someone you think may be a better fit, and so you have to initiate a breakup. While a breakup with a hairdresser may not be the same as ending things with a romantic partner, that doesn't mean that it's going to be easy. However, there are things that you can do to help create a smooth transition between stylists in the same salon.

After noticing some red flags that you're going to the wrong hairdresser, it may be time for a change. Let your old hairdresser know that you're making the switch before you make it. Don't just ghost them, especially if you're going to be coming into the same salon. When you think about running into an ex at the grocery store or a favorite restaurant the two of you shared, you know that it's uncomfortable. Avoid the unexpected awkwardness by being straightforward with your stylist instead of letting them find out when they see you sitting in another stylist's chair.

Be honest and polite about the situation as well. Thank them for the work they've done for you, especially if you've been going to that hairdresser for a while. You can also give a short-and-sweet explanation as to why you're making the switch. It could be something like a new stylist is someone who works more with adventurous colors and you're looking to experiment a bit more in that area. However, don't feel obligated to have a specific reason that you want to share, especially if it's not very nice — keep it professional. Once you start working with the new hairdresser, whatever you do, don't bad mouth your old one.

It might be just a temporary switch if you need to get your hair done quickly and your current stylist is booked. If that's the case, it makes sense for you to ask for a recommendation for someone else in the salon from the hairdresser that you have. If you feel comfortable with your current hairdresser and the new look you want is one you know isn't in their wheelhouse, be straightforward — you can say that you're looking for someone with more experience in bangs or vivid hair color, for example. As a pro, your hairdresser wants you to be happy.

As people grow and change, their personal style can evolve. It makes sense that, over time, you might become a better fit with a different hairdresser. Professional stylists know that — they don't want you coming to their chair out of a sense of loyalty if you're not completely happy with your look. You aren't the first client they've lost and you won't be the last. If it helps at all, you can think about it like this: if you're no longer a client for your current hairdresser, that means they now have time for a new client.