As a serial salon-switcher, I can tell you firsthand that it’s never easy breaking up with your hairdresser. Your stylist takes on so much more than just your hot roots and split ends every few weeks or so. Not only do they make you feel pretty (this in itself is a rare and valuable quality), but your hairdresser’s chair tends to become a modern confessional of sorts. We find ourselves sharing personal aspects of our lives with our hairdressers and listening to theirs in return.
Over time, your hairdresser becomes an odd combination of therapist, bartender, and friend, which explains why sometimes it can feel overwhelming to end the relationship. While you have your reasons for moving on, you still don’t want to offend or end things on a negative note. Luckily, you don’t have to. Here are some helpful tips for a guilt-free breakup with your hairdresser.
It’s Not You; It’s Me.
While this cliche might not be ideal for breaking up with your boyfriend, it’s a sure thing when it comes to breaking up with your hairdresser. Maybe it isn’t entirely accurate... but don’t let that stop you from sparing your hairdresser’s feelings and your conscience.
There are infinite possible explanations for why one might leave their hairdresser behind. Changing locations, budgets, and schedules, are all rational explanations for changing things up. Maybe these reasons aren’t your main motivation for leaving your hairdresser, but breakups rarely benefit from full disclosure.
Sometimes, it’s because you hate your hair. And a lot of times, that’s your hairdresser’s fault. But if your mind is set on switching, ask yourself, “How will telling this to my hairdresser benefit either of us?". Maybe you’re the open type, and that’s okay. But if you’re more interested in keeping things copacetic, just be kind.
Less is More
You don’t have to come up with an elaborate excuse, either. In fact, unless your hairdresser is particularly nosey and calls you to see where you’ve been, chances are they will know you’ve moved on when you don’t book your next few appointments. The good news is that they’re used to this. When it comes to the hair industry, people like trying new products, new wigs, new salons, and even new hair stylists.
If your hairdresser has become a friend, even just sending a text around your usual appointment time to let them know that you’re well and found a new place is sure to suffice. It’s the name of the hair game, and if your hairdresser is experienced, they won’t take it personally!
Don't Double Dip
While you can skip the harsh details or even drop off the radar, try to avoid double-dipping. In other words, don’t go to a different stylist in the same salon after breaking up with your hairdresser. It’s just not necessary; it’s awkward. Go on Yelp or text that girl from work with the gorgeous red hair and just start fresh.
And if your hairdresser does take issue with you moving on, well, then you know you made the right decision calling it quits. But in most cases, the breakup is bigger in your mind than in your hairdresser’s. Be nice, keep it short, and you’ll be leaving the salon door open should you ever want to get back together in the future!
