Guide to a Great Color Consultation

Any client can have a satisfying color experience if they discuss certain details in their color consultation. Pictures are an essential part of the process. At the end of the consultation you and your colorist should have an agreement on the expected outcome and the cost of the service.

The best way to assure a great hair color is to have a great color consultation. At the beginning of every color service there should be a color consultation. Be ready to answer questions about your current hair color and how the look is working for you. Here are some examples:

Is your color …

· fading too light?

· looking dull?

· tone changing too much?

· dimension fading?

Are you …

· wearing bangs the same way?

· changing your haircut?

· happy with the amount of gray coverage?

I refer to my portfolio pictures to confirm the look. Some clients like to change their look, even slightly, at least once a year. My portfolio is always available with new ideas.

Pictures really are worth 1000 words, and more. My idea of “golden brown with natural blonde highlights” could be very different from what you imagine for yourself. A picture serves as a visual agreement of the expected outcome. Sometimes it takes more than one picture to show all that a colorist needs to know:

· amount of highlights

· level of contrast

· color of highlights

· color of base or lowlights

A great look is worth maintaining. The difference between your natural hair and your desired color determines how often you should return to the salon to maintain your look. Some services are recommended to touch-up every 4 weeks, some every 6-8 weeks, and some every 10-12 weeks. Also, you should receive recommendations for shampoo and conditioner that will keep your hair looking great as long as possible.

Dramatic changes may require more than one visit. If the look you want is not possible in one service, the colorist should find a picture you agree upon for the outcome of the first visit. In the event of corrective services, a waiver is filled out by the colorist and signed by you so you understand the cost of service, expected outcome, amount of visits required to fully achieve the look, and any possible risks of service.

At the end of a great color consultation, both you and colorist should be excited about the service. You are now free to enjoy the whole experience at the salon!