How to Get a Good Haircut at a Beauty School

By tiny twig •  Updated: 06/10/11 •  3 min read

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1. Ask for the first appointment of the day!  Because we are just learning these techniques, and we have several checkpoints through the service, sometimes we get behind schedule. If you are there first thing in the day, you definitely won’t have to wait!
2. When you book your appointment, ask how long your service is booked for.  A common misconception is the length of your appointment.  Allow for a little extra time, again, we are learning and that takes a little more time.
3. Even though it sounds kind of scary, ask for a new student. In the beginning, the instructors are a lot more hands-on, and will make sure you leave satisfied.  As the student progresses in the program, you can continue to go back to him or her and she will already know how to cut your hair. And you will be happy every time!  If you go to a student about to graduate, you will have to re-explain the look you want, and there is more room for error.
4. Bring a picture!  This way everyone is on the same page!
5. Buy at least one of the products recommended to you.  We use products for a reason, to make your hair healthier and look better.  If you don’t have the products, you won’t achieve the look!
6. Remember, “You get what you pay for!”  Yes, the prices are great, but that’s because we are still training.  Expectations are important. Cosmetology schools aren’t salons, even though we do our best to create that kind of experience for you.
7.  Ask questions!  If you don’t feel comfortable with the student providing your service, you can always ask for someone else.
8. Before you arrive, know what you like about your hair, and what you don’t like about your hair.  That will help during your consultation.  If you are receiving a color service, know your hair’s history. Certain color products are not compatible with others, so don’t lie to get what you want.  Your hair could fall out!
9. It’s important to know that the student doing your hair is getting graded!  If you pre-book your next appointment, buy a product, or add a conditioning treatment to your service, you are helping the student out!  A very happy student does very good hair :)
10. Don’t forget to tip!  We don’t make any money off of the service, but most schools allow their students to receive tips, which is greatly appreciated since we are there full-time!