Hi Everyone,
I have been away for a long time. Life gets real, but you get through it. I have really enjoyed writing here and I plan to try this again and write more. Not a week goes by that a topic does not cross my mind and I think about how much I would love to be writing. I wrote this as a comment on another website and felt it might helpful here. I’m going to be posting soon to up date you all on hair, life, and other things. See ya Soon!!
MsZoe
On Stylists…
I’m with you on the fear of the stylist. I do relax my hair, but I have developed a whole regimen for taking care of my hair and making sure its healthy. My hair is currently the longest and healthiest it has ever been even under the consistent care of a professional stylist.
I have been thinking about going to see someone for a trim too. I have not pulled the trigger, but I am doing my research so when I am ready, I can just go make an appointment. The things I am using to make my decisions are:
1. Personal referrals from people with awesome hair (not just from friends) If I can see your hair on more than one occasion, that’s even better. I have been known to stop a woman or man, with glorious hair and ask questions. Usually they are into it, because they are fighting in the same struggle and are willing to talk if they have the time.
2. Research your specific stylist. IG (Instagram) has been my friend here. If I find out about a stylist and they have a website or IG, I go over each thoroughly. Take into account, if the pics are professional or just candids. I like the candids bc that will be what you see in someone on the street. Pro shots can sometimes be misleading. Check out the condition of the stylists hair too.
3. Visit the salon, have a consultation with the person and leave. See what the vibe is like. Do they seem above it all like they know what is best for you and won’t take your input seriously? Do they seem to have a collaborative spirit where they will listen to what you want and your concerns? I say leave, because that way you can have some time to think about how you felt about what they said and how they treated you. Do they inspire confidence in their skills? Did they seem to have answers for your concerns? You have been working hard, so make sure you and the stylist have a meeting of the minds.
4. Let it Go. Let the stylist do their thing. If you feel something going wrong, don’t hesitate to speak up, but otherwise let their hands work their magic. You have done all you can to make sure this is the right person for you and if it doesn’t work out, make sure they know what happened and why you are unhappy, then move on to the next one. Learn from it, but don’t dwell on it.
Overall, make sure you are clear about your expectations and have the stylist tell you how they plan to accomplish what you are asking for. Communication, research, and being assertive are keys to getting the outcome you want.
What do you think? Are there any other considerations you think are important?