5 Questions to Ask Your Hairstylist If You Have Hair Loss

I get it. Sitting in a salon chair when you’re dealing with hair loss isn’t always the easiest place to be. Trust me, I would know. I’ve been dealing with hair loss from a hair-pulling disorder called trichotillomania since I was 4 years old. I used to dread going to the salon and feeling like my hair loss was exposed to everyone around me. Over twenty years later, I’m working as a hairstylist for those with hair loss. I’ve experienced both sides of the chair - as a client and as a hairstylist. 

When you’re experiencing hair loss or you’re trying to achieve the healthiest hair possible, you need answers during your next salon appointment. Just like going to the doctor, your hairstylist has the professional answers to all your hair-related questions. Your appointment is more than just a haircut and casual conversation about you - you need to know how you can make sure your hair is the healthiest and happiest it’s ever been. Use these questions to get the conversation started, so that you can leave the salon chair on a journey to your best hair. 

What is the overall condition of my hair and scalp?

To know where you’re going, you need to know where you’re starting. Understanding the current condition of your hair AND scalp will help you and your stylist formulate a game plan for healthier hair. Most people think that your scalp and hair are only a reflection of your past 24-hours of activities, but that is not the case. To a trained eye, your scalp and hair can tell a stylist a lot about the products you’re using, how you style it, and how your skin and hair are reacting to your environment. Begin your next appointment by asking your stylist how your hair and scalp are doing, so you can gauge where to move the conversation with the next questions. 

What haircut would best compliment my face shape, hair texture, and hair density?

A good haircut is the foundation for almost any other service performed in the salon. That’s why it’s important for you and your stylist to have an honest conversation about what haircut is best suited for you, your hair, and your lifestyle. When it comes to growing your hair, trimming the ends and cutting off split-ends is key. But there’s more to your haircut than just trimming the ends - there are different cutting and layering techniques that can make your hair look thicker (and will get rid of those dead ends!). 

What hair color will best compliment my skin tone, eye color, and hair density?

Coloring hair isn’t as simple as applying color and waiting for it to process. There are a lot of factors that go into it, especially when you’re dealing with hair loss. Hair colorists should be able to identify what color or tone would best compliment your skin tone and eye color. Just like picking out a top to match your skirt and shoes - your hair color isn’t about just picking a pretty color. You need to make sure it’s best suited for you. 

Your hair density is another important factor. Depending on your hair loss, not every color or blonding pattern will be the best for making your hair healthy. Heck, blonde might not even be your best option. This is why it’s best to ask the professional before they immediately begin replicating the Pinterest image you show them.  

What styles, products, and activities should I avoid to ensure my hair stays healthy?

Depending on where you are on your hair loss journey, you probably have a lot of questions about how to keep your hair healthy and happy. Be honest with your hairstylist about your current hair care routine - there’s a chance that what you’ve been doing at home might be hurting your hair’s ability to grow and stay healthy. Especially when it comes to heat styling, talk to your hairstylist about what your hair can handle, if anything at all. There aren’t good hair products and bad hair products - products need to be customized to your hair texture, color, density, and your scalp. Speak with your hairstylist about what you need to do to make your hair as healthy and happy as it can be. 

What is the best hair care routine to ensure my hair and scalp stay healthy and happy?

Your hair shouldn’t just be a work of art leaving the salon. At home hair-care routines are essential to making sure that your hair continues to grow and stay healthy after you leave the salon. This question is more than just products - it’s about styling, activities, pillowcases. Your hair goes with you everywhere you go, so why not make sure that you’re always keeping it healthy and happy.