How To Find A New Hair Salon
/ OCT 17, 2025
Reading Time: 5 Minutes
Index
Finding a new hair salon can feel like a daunting quest, especially if you’ve been with your current one for so long. One wrong cut or color job and you might regret it for weeks, but with a few smart strategies and a little preparation, you can discover a salon that suits your hair, your budget, and your personality.
In this guide, we’ll be walking you through the step-by-step process of how to find a new hair salon – from initial online research to your very first appointment. By the end, you’ll feel more than confident when booking that first trip.
1. Start with Online Research
Begin your salon hunt from your phone or laptop. Use search engines and social media to cast a wide net. Try search phrases such as:
- “Best hair salon near me”
- “Hair salons in (your area)”
- "Salon specialising in human hair extensions"
- “Top rated colorist in (your area)”
Don’t stop at one or two results. Browse past the first few pages of Google, as sometimes smaller hidden gems show up after the big brands or chains. Also, use map search on Google or Apple Maps and filter by “rating” or “hours” to narrow your options down to what you need.
Social media, especially Instagram, is a goldmine when it comes to hair and beauty salons. Search hashtags like #LondonHairSalon, #HairTransformation or something more specific to your location or the style you’d like to see on yourself. Many salons share before and after photos, reels of color or cutting processes, and in-real-time client reviews. This gives you a visual feel on whether their style matches your taste, and whether they showcase work on your hair type. As you browse, compile a shortlist of 3-5 salons that intrigue you. Save their profiles, websites, or pins.
2. Deep Dive into Reviews & Reputation
With your shortlist in hand, it’s time to dig into the reviews. Use reliable platforms like Google Reviews, Facebook, Trustpilot and salon directories. Look not just at average star ratings, but at what people have actually got to say about their experiences.
What to look for:
- Consistency over time: A salon might have 5 stars now but had many 1-star reviews months ago. Look for improvement trends.
- Recurring themes: If multiple clients complain about the same issue, whether it’s unfriendly staff or their color fading fast, then that’s a major red flag.
- Photos from real clients: Genuine reviewers often upload images of their hair after the service. These matter more than curated gallery photos on a salon’s website.
- Authenticity clues: Be wary of too many overly generic reviews. Real reviews tend to mix praise and constructive criticism.
Sometimes reviews mention the specific stylist or service, i.e. balayage, professional hair extensions, a Brazilian blowdry or keratin smoothing. Use those clues to see if the salon has strength in your area of interest.
3. Explore Their Website & Portfolio
A salon’s ‘About Us’ page is your next window into their business beliefs, services, and professionalism. When you click through, you want to see:
- A clear, up-to-date service menu and pricing
- Before and after images of real client work
- Profiles or bios of stylists with their credentials or main skills
- Booking options with an online scheduler or a contact form
- Clear policies on cancellation, deposits and consultations
- Mentions of key brands or certifications
4. Schedule a Consultation or Trial Run
Once you’ve narrowed your choices to one or two salons, consider booking a consultation visit or a trial run of a blow dry before committing to a major cut or color transformation. This lets you get a feel for their workflow and customer care and helps you avoid surprises before booking your first big appointment, especially if it’s anything bridal or wedding hair related. Pay attention to the time they take, the questions asked, and whether there are any complimentary touches to make the experience as comfortable, friendly and personalised as possible.
5. Ask Smart Questions
Asking the right questions is key. During your visit or phone call, mentally run through a checklist. Here’s some examples:
- Are your stylists experienced with clip in hair extensions?
- Which stylist would I see for my service, and can I view their portfolio?
- What specialties does the salon have?
- What maintenance or follow-up is required?
- What products will be used, and can I buy them for home use?
- Are there hidden costs or charges?
- What is the cancellation or deposit policy?
A salon that welcomes these questions and answers clearly demonstrates transparency and ultimately a place that you can trust.
6. Evaluate Based on Your Priorities
Every person has different priorities. Use your own preferences to weigh up your options. Some things to factor in:
- Location: A salon you love that is two hours away might not be sustainable in the long-run.
- Budget: Some salons are considered premium, while others are more affordable. Just remember to check what’s included.
- Specialisation: If your hair is curly, textured, extension-based, or colored, pick a salon known for that particular niche.
- Comfort: You should feel heard and respected. If your stylist dismisses your questions, then it's probably not a great fit.
- Availability: How easy is it to get appointments: i.e. weekends and evenings.
Once you compare all these, pick the salon that balances your top priorities.
7. Plan Your First Appointment
When booking that first appointment, keep a few things in mind to get the best outcome:
- If possible, send reference photos in advance.
- Listen to the stylist’s suggestions if they have any.
- Confirm your timeline and the overall pricing ahead.
- Be ready to politely pause the process if something doesn’t feel right.
After the appointment, reflect: Did the result match your expectations? How was the experience? That will help you make your mind up on whether you want to return or try another salon in the mix.
Conclusion:
Choosing a new hair salon doesn’t have to be a gamble. By combining research, strategic questions, and personal priorities, you can discover a stylist and space that truly understands you and your hair. Always take your time – not every salon is the right match, and walking away from a poor fit is better than dealing with mediocre results. Once you’ve found one you trust, stick with them – as L’Oreal would say – because you’re worth it!
