HAIRDRESSERS can be miracle workers, turning our bad hair days into fabulous ones.
But even the best in the business have their limits – especially when their jobs are made harder by clients’ annoying habits.
From being indecisive and bringing unrealistic expectations to the chair, to constantly turning their necks or refusing to look down during a cut, clients can test even the most patient stylists.
Leanne Lee, Timely ambassador and CEO of The Hair & Business Academy, reveals ten things she wishes we’d all stop doing.
So are you guilty of them?
“We know it can be annoying, but when we ask you to look down, it’s for good reason”, says Leanne.
She adds: “If your head suddenly takes on a mind of its own and suddenly becomes as rebellious as a teenager past curfew, we risk turning your haircut into an accidental ear-piercing session.”
Not being able to sit still can also prove problematic.
Leanne jokes: “We get it; having a hairdryer blasting your scalp isn’t the most soothing experience.
“But if we had a pound for every time a client tilted their head backwards or darted sideways mid-blow-dry like we were playing hair dodgeball, we’d be retired.”
Having a good gossip with your hairdresser can really make the appointment fly by.
And they often end up being a person’s biggest therapist or confidante.
But Leanne has a “pro tip” for anyone who wants to enjoy a chatter.
She says: “Let’s keep the mirror as our middleman for eye contact.
“Turning your head mid-chat might mean an uneven fringe, and nobody wants that. So let’s keep the conversations flowing while your head stays still.”
We get it—life’s busy, and sometimes calls can’t wait.
“But balancing a phone on your head while we work around it is a bit like asking us to play scissors twister”, says Leanne.
“Let’s set the phone aside during the cut, and we promise you’ll be out the door in no time.”
Dreaming of those icy-blonde waves you saw on your Pinterest board?
Leanne says hairdressers are 100 per cent “here for it”.
However, she advises: “If your starting point is jet-black hair, achieving your dream will be a journey, not a sprint.
“And while we’ll do our best to keep your length, going that light can involve some compromise.”
Hairdressing pro Leanne says she loves clients’ enthusiasm and creativity – but adds that finding the perfect style can be tricky if you’re not sure what you want.
She suggests: “Bring in some inspiration or a clear idea, and we’ll work our magic.
“Don’t worry, there’s always room for collaboration—we just need a starting point!”
Sometimes, mums have no choice to bring their little ones with them to hair appointments – and should never feel bad about it.
To make it easier for everyone, Leanne suggests: “Give us a heads-up so we can plan accordingly and make the experience enjoyable for everyone.”
Next up, the hair expert urges clients to be open-minded about products the professionals use.
She says: “We understand your loyalty to your favourite shampoo but trust us when we say our salon-grade products are specially designed to pamper your hair.
“Your go-to bottle can take a day off—your locks will thank you for the professional TLC!”
When hairdressers ask if you’re using heat protectant and you nod, they trust you.
But those split ends tell their own story.
Leanne says: “No shame here—just a gentle reminder that a little extra care at home goes a long way. Show your hair some love between appointments, and you’ll see the difference.”
Hairdressers are all about being flexible but adding a root touch-up and trim to a simple blow-dry appointment at the last second can be tricky.
Leanne concludes: “We want to give you the best experience possible, so next time, use our online booking in advance for all the pampering—we’ll make sure you leave looking fabulous!”
