Tipping Your Hairdresser Made Simple
Ever left the salon and wondered if you tipped enough? You’re not alone. Tipping a hairdresser feels personal, but there are clear rules that make it easy. Think of it as saying thanks for a good job, just like you would at a restaurant. Below you’ll find practical numbers and etiquette tips so you can walk out confident every time.
How Much Should You Tip?
The general rule is 15‑20% of the total bill. If you paid $35 for a cut, a 15% tip is about $5, and 20% is $7. Most people round to the nearest whole dollar, so $5 or $7 works fine. For bigger services—color, styling, or a haircut plus wash—use the same percentage on the combined amount. If the stylist gave you an extra service for free, you can tip on the original price.
When you’re on a budget, a lower tip is still appreciated if you’re honest. A $10 tip on a $70 service (about 14%) shows gratitude without breaking the bank. If the stylist went above and beyond—like fixing a bad cut or giving you a great home‑care tip—add a few dollars extra. It’s the extra effort that matters most.
Tipping Etiquette and Common Scenarios
Tip after you’ve paid the service fee, not before. Hand the tip directly to the stylist or leave it on the counter with a note. If you’re using a credit card, most POS systems let you add a tip before you sign. In a busy salon, it’s polite to tip each stylist who worked on you, not just the one who cut your hair.
Group appointments need a little thought. If two stylists worked together, split the tip equally unless one did most of the work. For a bridal party where many people get done at once, a flat $10‑$20 per person is a safe bet. And if you’re getting a free haircut through a promo or a student trainer, a tip of $5–$10 still shows appreciation for their time.
Special cases like travel or home visits often include travel fees. Tip on the service cost, not the travel charge. If you booked a last‑minute appointment and the stylist rearranged their schedule, a bigger tip (20‑25%) is a nice thank‑you. On the other hand, if you’re dissatisfied with the result, talk to the stylist first; a reduced tip or none at all is acceptable if the issue isn’t resolved.
Remember, tipping is a way to build a good relationship with your hairdresser. Consistently decent tips mean you’ll likely get priority bookings, personalized advice, and maybe even a few product samples. So next time you sit in the chair, think of the tip as part of the service, not an after‑thought.
