The Illusion of Social Media
We’ve all seen those stunning before-and-after photos on social media. A client walks in with frizzy, damaged hair and walks out with a sleek, glossy mane. It’s just like magic, right? Well, not exactly. While hairdressers are highly skilled professionals capable of helping their clients undergo some pretty incredible transformations, they’re certainly not magicians. Here are a few things to consider when setting expectations at your salon.
What You See vs. What You Get
The reality of these seemingly magical hair transformations that result in those dramatic social media images is the outcome of a combination of factors – and certain aspects may or may not translate to your specific real-life situation. The time and effort involved in achieving a certain look is not reflected in an edited video or a social media story. As a viewer, you see only a couple of minutes [or sometimes just 30 seconds] of the styling, cutting, and coloring process, whereas in real-time at the salon, it may take hours to achieve the same look.
Post-production editing is also a common practice – while it’s not always obvious, many photos and videos are edited after the fact, for example, with lighting, to enhance the results. Another thing to consider is that the celebrity hairdressers featured in these demonstrations often use high-end, exclusive products on their “before-and-after” subjects, the kind of professional-grade salon products that aren’t readily available to the average consumer.
Setting Realistic Expectations
When visiting a hairdresser, it’s important to set realistic expectations. Here are some tips when communicating with your stylist, especially a new one. Be honest about your hair history – your hairdresser needs to know about any previous treatments, damage, or color changes to provide optimal hair care for your current situation. To that end, discuss your lifestyle, including your daily routine. This could include how often you wash your hair, whether you participate in certain sports, etc. Don’t be shy when sharing these details with your hairdresser – your lifestyle will absolutely influence how your new hairstyle and color hold up.
If you have a specific look in mind, the age-old practice of bringing reference photos to show your stylist is still helpful as a conversation starter. A professional hairdresser will review the images you provide and honestly let you know whether the style you’re after fits your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle. Be open to alternate ideas. Your stylist is a professional and can offer valuable suggestions and advice.
A Healthy Relationship with Your Hairdresser
A good relationship with your hairdresser is built on trust and communication. By setting realistic expectations and working together, you can achieve a stylish and manageable look. Remember, your hairdresser is there to help you look your best and feel confident and happy when you leave the salon – which is, in a way, its own kind of magic!
Enjoy Your Hair!!
Mickey