How Much Do You Tip for a Haircut? The Essential Guide to Tipping Hairstylists (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

When it comes to gratuities for a haircut, the customary practice is to tip 15-20% of the total service cost.

For a basic trim or style, you’d tip on the lower end, around 15%.

But if your stylist delivered an exceptional cut with complex techniques like balayage highlights or intricate braiding, consider tipping closer to 20-25% to express your appreciation.

Ultimately, the tip amount should align with your satisfaction and budget.

Leaving a generous tip and maybe even a glowing review can go a long way toward guaranteeing you continue receiving exceptional service.

Want to delve deeper into tipping etiquette? Keep reading for more detailed guidance.

How Much Do You Tip for a Haircut?

When tipping for a haircut, a 20% tip is standard; may vary based on the service quality (Source). Consider tipping more for complex cuts or excellent service (Source).

Tipping Etiquette for Haircuts

Tipping your hairstylist is a standard practice that shows your appreciation for their expertise and the quality of their work.

The typical tip ranges from 15-20% of the total service cost.

However, the exact amount can vary based on factors like your satisfaction with the results, the stylist’s experience level, and the complexity of the haircut.

It’s always best to tip in cash if possible, as it allows you to discreetly express your gratitude directly to the stylist.

Calculating the Tip for a Haircut

To properly tip your hairstylist, you’ll want to calculate between 15-20% of the total cost of your haircut service. For a standard haircut, aim to tip around 20% as a way to show appreciation for their skilled work and guarantee they receive fair compensation.

Tip Percentage

When tipping your hairstylist, the standard range is 15-20% of the total service cost.

This gratuity shows your appreciation for their expertise and helps support their income.

For exceptional service, consider tipping closer to 20%.

If you’re unsatisfied, tip closer to 15% and communicate your concerns discreetly with your stylist.

Plan for it in your budget, and adjust your service if needed to make sure you can afford a fair tip.

Your stylist will appreciate your thoughtfulness and it will help maintain a positive relationship.

Tip Amount

When calculating the tip for a haircut, consider different scenarios.

Tip assistant hair washers $3-$5.

For basic haircuts, stick to 15-20%. For complex styles like hand-painted highlights, lean towards higher tips. Exceptional service merits more than 20%.

If unsatisfied, tip less than 20% to reflect service.

During holidays, increase tips by 10%.

With discounts, base the tip on the service’s true cost, not the discounted price.

Adjust tips as needed – less for subpar service, more for exceptional experiences.

Feel empowered to appreciate in your unique way.

Tipping for Basic Haircuts

For basic haircuts, the standard tipping range is 15-20% of the total cost.

To calculate the tip, simply take the total and multiply it by 0.15 for a 15% tip or 0.20 for a 20% tip. For example, if your haircut costs $25, a 15% tip would be $3.75, while a 20% tip would be $5.

The tip percentage you choose depends on your satisfaction with the service and your budget.

Tipping for More Complex Haircuts

For more complex haircuts like hand-painted highlights, balayage techniques, extensions installation, or intricate braids, consider tipping 20-25% of the total service cost. These styles require additional time, skill, and expertise from your stylist. Be sure to factor in the cost of any treatments, such as a silk press or scalp massage, when calculating your tip. Remember, your tip shows appreciation for the exceptional service you received and helps support your stylist’s income.

Service	Tip Percentage
Balayage	20-25%
Extensions	20-25%
Braids	20-25%
Silk Press	20-25%
Scalp Massage	20-25%

Tipping for Exceptional Service

If you received exceptional service from your hairstylist, consider tipping more than the standard 20%.

A 25% tip shows your sincere appreciation for their skills and effort. This extra generosity is especially meaningful during the holiday season when stylists work hard to make their clients look and feel their best.

Even if you used a discount, tip based on the original service cost to guarantee your stylist is fairly compensated.

Small gestures like using their name, leaving a glowing online review, or bringing in a referral are other thoughtful ways to express your gratitude.

Tipping for Unsatisfactory Service

If you’re unhappy with your haircut, it’s understandable to contemplate reducing the tip.

However, tipping is still expected, even if the service didn’t meet your expectations.

The best approach is to communicate your dissatisfaction directly and privately with your stylist.

Explain what you’d like to change and ask if they can adjust the cut during a follow-up appointment.

If you’re still unsatisfied after the correction, tip 15% to acknowledge the stylist’s efforts.

Avoid tipping less than 15% unless there were major issues.

Tipping shows you value the stylist’s time and skills, even when things don’t go as planned.

Tipping for Salon Assistants

When tipping for salon services, don’t forget about the hardworking assistants who help make your hair look fabulous.

As a general rule, tip the assistant who shampoos or rinses your hair $3-5.

If the assistant provides exceptional service, such as an amazing scalp massage or perfectly blow-dried style, consider tipping them closer to 20% of the stylist’s tip.

Always include the assistant’s tip in cash, and don’t feel obligated to tip if you’re unhappy with their work.

A little appreciation goes a long way in keeping your salon visits smooth and enjoyable.

Tipping During the Holiday Season

During the holiday season, consider tipping your hairstylist an extra 10% as a gesture of appreciation.

This bonus shows your stylist that you value their hard work and dedication throughout the year.

You can also express your gratitude by giving them a gift card to their favorite restaurant or store.

Many salons offer seasonal discounts or special promotions during the holidays, so take advantage of these deals to treat yourself while showing your stylist some extra love.

Tipping When Using Discounts

When using discounts at the salon, it’s important to calculate your tip based on the true cost of the service, not the discounted price. This will make sure your hairstylist receives a fair tip for their expertise. Here’s how to handle tipping with discounts:

1. Ask the front desk for the true cost of the service before calculating your tip.
2. Tip 20% on the original, non-discounted total.
3. Use small envelopes to discreetly distribute tips to your stylist and any assistants who helped with your service.

Showing Appreciation Beyond Tipping

Beyond tipping, there are other meaningful ways to show your hairstylist appreciation.

Consider sending a heartfelt thank-you note expressing your gratitude for their expertise and the positive impact they’ve had on your confidence.

Offering referrals is another thoughtful gesture – recommend your stylist to friends and family who could benefit from their exceptional skills.

Finally, leaving a glowing online review can help attract new clients and showcase your stylist’s talents to a wider audience.

These gestures demonstrate that you value their work beyond just the financial transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)