You just stepped out of the beauty salon with a fresh cut, perfect color, and a flawless blowout—feeling amazing. But then, at checkout, you freeze. Who do you tip? How much? What about the person who washed your hair or helped with the blow-dry? And if you used a discount, does that change things? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here’s a simple guide to tipping at the beauty salon, whether you're at your go-to spot or searching for the nearest beauty salon open now.

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How Much to Tip at the Beauty Salon

The Conventional Advice

20% of the total service charge is the standard gratuity for a beauty salon. Hairstylists make a portion of their income from gratuities, just like in restaurants. As a bonus, think about including an additional 10% throughout the holidays.

Bring enough cash for gratuities, as many salons only accept cash. Because service costs can differ depending on your hair type or the stylist's level of experience, visit the salon's website beforehand to get an idea of how much money you'll need.

The Significance of Tipping

Tipping is a method to express gratitude for excellent service and goes beyond simple manners. Additionally, there may be benefits to tipping generously, such as future quick touch-ups or free bang trims.

Tipping for Blowouts, Color, and Shampoo

Don't tip per person; always tip 20% of the overall cost of your service. If your color costs $60 and your haircut and blow-dry cost $40, your total will be $100, which includes a $20 tip.

Since assistants frequently work for minimal wage and rely on tips, budget $4 to $5 for them if they washed your hair or assisted with style.

What Happens If You Can't Identify the Helper?

Ask the front desk to split your tips if more than one person helped you. Individual tipping is made unobtrusive and easy at many salons by providing little envelopes.

Using a discount or coupon to tip

Always tip using the original service price, not the discounted one, while taking advantage of a discount or offer. The stylist's gratuity should be commensurate with the amount of work they completed.

Is the Salon Owner Deserving of a Tip?

Although most salon owners don't ask for tips, they will nonetheless be grateful if they did your hair. Ask if they accept tips if you're not sure.

When Not to Give a Tipping Tip

Tipping is not required unless when making purchases. To avoid any misunderstandings regarding gratuities, request a separate transaction if you are purchasing shampoo or styling supplies.

Never forget to leave something, even if your service wasn't flawless. Establish a baseline of 20% and make minor adjustments in light of your experience.

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