13 “Polite” Habits Your Virginia Hairdresser Secretly Hates

So, you’re trying to be a dream hairdresser client—super polite, respectful, and easy to work with.

That’s great! But guess what? Some of the things you think are “nice” might actually be driving your hair stylist nuts.

Virginia hairdressers deal with all kinds of people every day, and sometimes, good intentions backfire. Here are some so-called polite habits that might secretly annoy your stylist.

Showing Up Way Too Early

You might think rolling in super early is a good thing—it shows you’re responsible, right? Nope. It actually puts pressure on your stylist.

They’ve got a packed schedule, and if you show up 20 minutes ahead of time, you’re just making them feel rushed to finish their last client.

The sweet spot? Five minutes before your appointment. That gives you enough time to check in without making your stylist stress out.

Trust us, they’ll appreciate it.

Bringing a Whole Pinterest Board of Hair Ideas

A couple of inspo pics? Perfect. A whole album of completely different cuts, colors, and styles? Overwhelming.

If you hand your stylist ten totally different looks and say, “I want something like these,” they’re going to have a hard time figuring out what you actually want.

Pick two or three pictures with similar vibes and be ready to chat about what you love in each one.

Your stylist will be able to work with that and give you a look that actually works for you.

Crossing Your Legs While Getting a Cut

Bet you didn’t know this one! Crossing your legs tilts your whole body, which means your hair won’t be cut evenly.

And you definitely don’t want a lopsided haircut just because you were getting comfy.

Instead, plant both feet on the ground or use the footrest.

Your stylist will get a cleaner cut, and you won’t end up with weirdly uneven hair.

Apologizing for Your Hair

Seriously, stop saying “Sorry, my hair is so gross” the second you sit down.

Your stylist has seen it ALL—greasy roots, fried ends, awkward grown-out bangs. It’s their job to fix it, and they’re not judging you.

Instead of apologizing, just relax. If there’s something important they need to know—like product buildup or a scalp issue—they’ll tell you.

Otherwise, just let them do their thing.

Nodding Like You Understand (When You Don’t)

If your stylist is explaining something and you’re just nodding along, pretending you get it—don’t.

If you’re confused, ask! You’re not annoying them, we promise. They’d much rather take a second to explain things than have you walk out with a haircut you didn’t expect.

If they start throwing around words like “layers” or “texturizing” and you’re not 100% sure what that means for your hair, just say so.

A quick clarification now saves you from unwanted surprises later.

Bringing a Friend to Keep You Company

Look, we get it—you want moral support. But dragging your BFF or your partner along can make things a little awkward.

Salons aren’t usually set up for extra guests, and your friend hovering nearby or throwing in opinions can be distracting.

If you really need someone there—like for a big hair transformation—check with your stylist ahead of time.

Otherwise, consider enjoying some solo self-care time. You deserve it!

Talking Nonstop (Or Sitting in Silence Like a Statue)

Some people feel like they need to keep up a conversation the whole time to be polite. Others sit completely silent, afraid of being a bother.

The best approach? Just read the vibe.

If your stylist is chatty, go with it. If they’re focused, maybe let them concentrate.

A little bit of small talk is great, but if you notice they’re being extra careful with a cut or color, maybe let them work their magic in peace.

Waiting Until the End to Say Something

Your stylist is almost done, and THEN you mention that you wanted your layers shorter? Yikes.

By that point, it might be tricky to make changes without starting over.

If something feels off—whether it’s the length, color, or style—speak up early.

Your stylist wants you to leave happy, and it’s way easier to tweak things as they go instead of fixing it all at the last minute.

Being Weird About Tipping

Tipping can be awkward, but let’s keep it simple: If you’re happy with the service, tip 15-20%.

That’s the standard, and yes, your stylist absolutely relies on tips as part of their income.

Also, don’t make it weird. Just hand over the cash or add it to the bill like it’s no big deal.

No need for an awkward “Here’s a little something for you!” moment.

Expecting a Discount Just Because You’re a Regular

You might think being a loyal client earns you a discount, but stylists set their prices for a reason. They have to cover their time, skills, and products.

Asking for a discount puts them in an uncomfortable spot, especially if they already give you great service.

Instead of looking for a price break, show appreciation by referring friends, leaving a great review, or tipping well.

That’s how you support your stylist without making them feel undervalued.

Bringing In a DIY Hair Disaster and Expecting a Miracle

Box dye gone wrong? Home haircut turned into a nightmare?

Your stylist can help—but don’t expect a cheap, one-step fix. Color corrections and major fixes take time and skill, and they’re usually expensive.

Be honest about what you did to your hair and trust your stylist’s plan.

Trying to downplay a box dye job won’t help—your stylist WILL know, and they need all the details to fix it properly.

Holding Your Head Stiff as a Board

You might think you’re helping by keeping your head super still, but it actually makes things harder.

Your stylist needs to move your head at different angles to get the perfect cut or color placement.

Just relax and let them guide you. If they need you to tilt or turn, they’ll let you know.

Being too stiff just makes their job more difficult.

Changing Your Mind at the Last Minute

Deciding mid-appointment that you want a totally different look? That can be a problem.

A quick trim takes way less time than a full balayage or major chop, and last-minute changes can throw off the whole schedule.

Thinking about a big transformation? Mention it when you book your appointment so your stylist has enough time to make it happen.

Surprising them with “Actually, let’s go platinum blonde!” five minutes before they start isn’t fair to them—or their next client.

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