When I first began my career as a professional hair stylist, one thing stood out immediately; the analogy of a marital relationship to a hairstylist and his/her customer. I was amazed at the similarities.
By Ladosha Wright
Contributing Hair Columnist
When I first began my career as a professional hair stylist, one thing stood out immediately; the analogy of a marital relationship to a hairstylist and his/her customer. I was amazed at the similarities. When a customer returns to the salon after being away for some time; it is common for the stylist to ask, “Where have you been?” I have also had customers tell me how they actually feel as if they are “cheating” on their hairstylist when they allow another stylist to service their hair.
Just as you would not depend on your significant other to do things for you, you can do yourself; I do not recommend anyone to depend solely on their hairstylist. Instead, I recommend every man, woman and teen to have a “Love Affair” with their hair. A salon visit for many is often used in lieu of what can be done at home. Having an affair with your hair; entails that you actually spend time with your hair. Spending time with your hair is defined as touching it all over, combing it frequently throughout the day, looking at yourself in the mirror at least 3 times per day, looking at your scalp and reading the label of the products you use on your hair and scalp.
It is a popular belief amongst many women who pay for any type of hair style; it should last. It should last up to 2 weeks. That’s like putting an ultimatum on a relationship. For example, I have heard people say to me, “You guys have been dating for 5 years, isn’t it time for marriage.” A hair style, like a relationship, is between you and your hair. Not you and the social conscience of the majority. Lower your expectations on what you think a hair style can do and cannot do. Certain styles on varying textures can last for two weeks, maybe even a month. For most, a hairstyle will last only about 3 days.
Considering a hair style is only good for so many days, it is not an option to not comb your hair throughout the day. Spending time in the mirror playing with your hair, combing it and the likes affords you the opportunity to learn your hair. The more you are in charge of your hair; the more realistic you can be about what you want and what you are paying for.
Hair, like relationships cannot care for themselves. Get rid of your “get mad; get even” attitude towards your hair. Embrace the texture you have. Instead of listening to your stylist talk about their issues, turn your salon visit into a working visit. Have your stylist teach you. This is the day and age of “Do it yourself.” From floors, to car repairs, to gourmet’ cooking to hair care. This appears to be a permanent practice in how consumers spend their dollars.
Refrain from complaining and start campaigning about what it takes to care for your hair. Afterwards seek out the right information. If your stylist is not answering your questions and introducing you to options; then it is time to meet someone else.
A part of Stephano & Co. Salon and The Reverence Design Team on Lee Road in Shaker, Ladosha Wright is the Manager and Instructor of Cosmetology at Reverence Salon. She specializes in Trichology (the study of scalp and hair properties). This area of expertise allows her to teach clients how to care for their hair in between salon visits thus maximizing the use of their time and dollars.
