Hair Stylist & Barber in Lexington

A patch test dabs a small amount of the colourant (usually behind the ear) 48 hours before the appointment to check for allergic reaction to PPD and related chemicals. Reputable salons insist on it for new colour clients and after any break of several months, because reactions can be severe. A salon that skips patch tests for first-time colour clients is cutting a corner that matters.

It depends heavily on the country: 15-20% is customary in the US and Canada, around 10% is appreciated but optional in the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, and tipping is not expected in most of Asia. Cash tips go directly to the stylist; card tips sometimes don't. When in doubt, rounding up is always welcome and never offensive.

Ask for a consultation first (many salons do them free), whether the quote includes toner and an after-colour blow-dry, how many sessions a big change will take, and what a strand test shows about your hair's condition. Going dark-to-blonde in one sitting is a classic overpromise — a good colourist will say it needs staged sessions.

Yes — occasion and bridal styling is a standard mobile service. Expect a premium over salon prices for early starts and travel, a paid trial session 2-6 weeks before the event, and a deposit to hold the date. Book bridal stylists 2-6 months ahead in peak wedding season.

Short clipper cuts and fades lose shape fastest — every 2-4 weeks. Medium styles typically need a trim every 6-8 weeks, and long hair every 8-12 weeks to control split ends. Booking a standing appointment often gets you priority slots and sometimes a loyalty discount.

Every state board of cosmetology/barbering runs a free online license lookup — search '[state] cosmetology license verification' and check the name or license number. Licenses must be renewed periodically, so also check the status is active rather than expired or suspended.

Yes — 15-20% of the service price is the norm and stylists' income assumes it. Tip on the pre-discount price if you used a promo, and tip the assistant who shampooed separately ($3-5) at higher-end salons.