Whether you’re looking for subtle highlights or an epic chop, a salon visit can be a roller-coaster of excitement and nerves. At the end of the day, you want to walk out feeling your best, but more often than not you end up underwhelmed. The key to getting everything you want out of your service? Preparation. Thus, we’ve tapped L’Oréal Paris celebrity hairstylist Mara Roszak and L’Oréal Paris consulting hair colorist Kari Hill to share the must-follow prep steps, from arriving with your tresses in the right state to honestly communicating your #hairgoals. Ahead, the nine things to remember before your next appointment.
Salon Savvy
"Don't come in with wet or dirty hair. Wet hair can't be colored, and it takes time to blow it dry first. There's also a false belief that it’s better to color very dirty hair. Actually, an excessive amount of product residue on strands can impede color application."
—Colorist Kari Hill
"It's important to get a cut that works for you, your lifestyle and your hair type. Make a decision based on that. And if you want a transformative style, make sure you're emotionally prepared for the change. It's exciting, but you have to think it through."
—Stylist Mara Roszak
"Visuals help the stylist understand what her client is looking for. But remember that most of the time, the looks you see in magazines involve hours of professional styling. Being open to your stylist's suggestions for your specific hair type and texture will help you get the perfect cut."
—Stylist Mara Roszak
"Let your stylist know what you feel isn't working with your hair, and what has worked in the past. It's helpful to arrive with your hair the way you wear it every day, to allow her to see it in its usual state. And be honest about your styling ability—no one wants a cut they can't handle."
—Stylist Mara Roszak
"Always tell a colorist if you've had any treatments, such as keratin or color, before she starts the process. If you don't, she might not be treating your hair correctly. It will ultimately impact the outcome and can lead to undesirable results."
—Colorist Kari Hill
"It can take up to three 45-minute visits to correct past color issues, so give a new colorist at least three tries before switching. You'll never get it right if you keep changing. Limit the number of cooks in the kitchen so you can see the results of one colorist's job well done."
—Colorist Kari Hill
"So many clients talk about spending time in the sun, then complain about their color changing. Hair oxidizes without proper protection! Wear hats or head scarves, limit sun exposure and use products with UV filters. L'Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare Color Vibrancy Root-to-Tip Fixer is ideal—comb it through the hair after your morning shower for color preservation, nourishment and added protection from the elements."
—Colorist Kari Hill
"Using deep-conditioning treatments weekly is key for maintaining hair health and prolonging your style."
—Stylist Mara Roszak
"This is totally dependent on the haircut, hair goals and hair type. For shorter cuts, it's usually best to come in every six to eight weeks. For longer or lower-maintenance styles, come in for a trim every three months to avoid split ends and breakage."
—Stylist Mara Roszak
