You don’t have to give up your hair stylist because of a tight budget. Use these tips to cut salon costs.

by Miranda Jackson

For many of us, salon visits are necessary. Even if you don’t get your hair colored or get a fancy cut, you probably need to visit the salon every few months for a trim.

Perhaps you’re at an age where washing and styling your hair has become challenging. A salon visit can be a must.

Or maybe you just enjoy getting pampered.

Whatever your reason for visiting the salon, you have several options for trimming the cost.

11 Ways To Trim Salon Costs

With these tips, you may never have to pay full price for a salon visit.

1. Sign Up for Savings

Many salons have a loyalty program or a newsletter you can join. Members receive coupons for discounts on services or hair products. As a subscriber, you’ll also be able to stay current on seasonal promotions or package deals.

If your salon doesn’t have a loyalty program or provide coupons, don’t hesitate to ask for a discount or inquire about ongoing promotions.

2. Score Off-Peak Savings

See if your salon offers discounted rates during off-peak hours or weekdays when they’re less busy. You might even get better service since your stylist may have more time to spend on you.

3. Add a Few More Weeks Between Visits

Perhaps you’ve always gone to the salon every six weeks. Do you have a color and/or style that can go every eight weeks?

You may require fewer visits if you keep it simple and choose a low-maintenance haircut and style.

4. Go With a Junior Stylist

If you aren’t loyal to one stylist, you can often save by choosing a junior or apprentice stylist. These stylists may be less senior but usually offer the same excellent service.

5. Give a Beauty School Student Some Practice

Look for beauty schools in your area that take appointments. You get a significant discount on your haircut and style, and the student gets some experience.

Students are under the supervision of their instructors during your visit. (See Let Students Reduce the Cost of Professional Services.)

6. DIY Some Treatments

You can save considerably by doing your own hair masks and deep conditioning treatments at home. Save your salon dollars for cuts, colors and styles.

7. Refer Friends

If your salon has a referral program, you can earn discounts by encouraging your friends to try your stylist.

8. Use Coupon Sites

Websites like Groupon or LivingSocial often feature discounted salon services. Once again, if you aren’t loyal to one stylist, this can be a good source of savings. And you just might find the perfect stylist.

9. Buy in Bulk

If you prefer salon-quality shampoos, conditioners and styling products, purchase them in larger quantities.

According to many stylists, these products contain less water and wax, so you don’t need to use as much as cheaper products to wash and style your hair, which can sometimes make these products more cost-effective in the long run.

10. Ask for Gift Cards

Do your kids or spouse always ask you what you want for Christmas, birthdays and Mother’s Day? Let them know if your salon offers gift cards.

11. Take Care of Your Stylist

If you consistently tip your stylist well, you may receive little extras, such as free trial-size products or a complimentary shampoo, as a thank you.

Maintain Your Beauty on a Budget

You don’t have to sacrifice quality or style to save money at the salon. With some planning and resourcefulness, you can maintain your beauty routine while staying within your budget.

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Reviewed May 2024