When Neil Sedaka wrote the song, “Breaking up Is Hard to Do” he didn’t have his hairdresser in mind, but it could easily describe the dilemma some people face when they want to change beauticians. Knowing how to make the break may be a handy thing to keep in mind. It can be especially difficult when you have had a professional customer relationship for quite a while and you want to make a change. Sometimes it’s hard to gather the courage to be truthful and tell your stylist that you want to move on. Courage being the better part of valor, the best thing to do is to speak to your hairdresser personally. Not only will you feel better about it, your hair care professional deserves that common courtesy.

Before you have that conversation think over carefully the reasons you might want to change. Two key reasons for going to another salon are: dissatisfaction with the services and cost. “If you feel that you want a different style, just speak frankly to your stylist,” Dale McAdams of Frontenac Salons, Inc. says. “The worst thing you can do is to skip your next appointment and go elsewhere.” Chances are if you have a conversation, you and your hairdresser might come to an amicable agreement on an updated look. “Most stylists take part in continuing education classes to keep abreast of the latest styles and techniques. If you want something different don’t be afraid to ask.”

Another reason for “breaking up” might be the cost of the services. It is best to be frank about what your budget will allow. A good stylist will be happy to suggest home products vs. expensive salon treatments or give you ideas for stretching the time between appointments. While it might be difficult to admit that price is an issue, speaking candidly will make both of you feel better. You hairdresser will appreciate knowing that the work isn’t in question but that your dollars aren’t stretching as far as they used to.

Hair professionals will respect your decision if you respect the time and effort they put forth on your behalf.  If speaking personally is too upsetting, try writing a letter. Your stylist will appreciate the courtesy you have extended. Above all, don’t burn any bridges. If your new operator doesn’t work out the way you had hoped, you’ll want to be able to return your old salon. If you’ve been upfront with your hairdresser chances are if you return your stylist will welcome you back. Remember the lyrics Neil sings in his song, “Instead of breaking up I wish that we were making up.”

Related Articles
	Choosing the Right Hairstyle Have you had the same haircut since high school… and you’ve been out for five years? Are you still flipping your hair out at the ends? Don’t even admit you’re zigzagging your part! If any of the above apply to you, it’s time for a new look! A new hairstyle can be scary. But, if you find a stylist you ...Read more		How to Find the Right Hair Dye Color Whether you crave platinum blonde locks or fiery red tresses, it’s always best to make sure the shade you choose will not only look good on you, but that it looks natural. Celebrities are the most popular source for the latest hair colors but unless you’ve got the money to hire the best hair   ...Read more