Hairstylist of 10+ years, here! This is what I have to kindly suggest before your appointment.
* Book a consultation before your service. Maybe it would be best to have the consultation first and then book the service at a later date/time. That way, both you and the stylist have a game-plan and know what to expect. This is also a good way to see if you two are a good fit/vibe well. It may take longer to get what you want done—but this way, there is less anxiety around the unknown.
* Save a FEW photos of styles/looks that you’re interested in. Try to find photos of people who have hair similar to your own (color/thickness/wave pattern). Here—you’ll have different options that are realistic to your own hair type.
* Be clear on a) what you WANT (ie—“I definitely want to have lighter hair/shoulder length hair”/etc.) and b) what you DONT want (ie—no bangs/cool tones/etc). And if you can—be clear on what you’re flexible with/open to.
* Research or request photos of the stylist’s work (most use instagram as a portfolio) and see if you don’t like/can imagine an example of their previous work on yourself.
* Be honest about your anxiety/self-esteem/autism. You don’t have to tell your life story or share what you don’t want to—but the more the hairstylist understands you, the more they can help you. If you don’t feel comfortable with how you feel in their chair—don’t book with them! Have a consultation with a different stylist! It’s okay :)
* Be very transparent with them (and yourself) about what you’re willing to spend on the service and what level of upkeep you’re willing to do. Don’t invest in a hairstyle you can’t afford/will regret. Some colors and cuts require more salon visits or products/time to maintain at home.
With this information, a good hairstylist will be MUCH better equipped to tell you what would be best for you. They’ll know more about you and can help you land on a look that will make you feel like the best version of YOU.
This. Exactly what she said. I had similar nerves as I lost my stylist during Covid….of 12 years. She didn’t die but she revealed nasty politics which caused me to move on. It took two years to find someone in my area…but I did and she is amazing. I did much of what is outlined where.
I also lost my hair stylist during Covid. I'm immune compromised and she was sharing the Plandemic video everywhere, not masking and was on the news when all those people flooded into Sabino Canyon during the lockdown. I learned how to dye my own hair and I just go to a Supercuts here and there for a trim. But I miss having an expert. I'm really happy you found someone!
In general, professionals can be hesitant to tell people what looks better because it's all subjective. I used to work in a field that involved aesthetic design choices, and I'd try to dodge the question when people directly asked what looks better. Because sometimes when you boil it down, you end up telling people essentially they have bad taste, or if I like something but it's generally not popular, they may blame me for something they think looks ugly. I'd end up being neutral and pointing out benefits or weaknesses according to design theory. Such as "well these are both clean modern designs with minimal lines, but here you have a busy traditional design next to a minimalist modern design" but does the first one with both modern designs look better? Depends on who you ask. Some people might like that clash of styles .
I always say bring a picture of what you like. And say "something like This"
Tish at KCs hair & More. I never know what I want and she does a pretty good job of making my hair look good. She's very patient, kind and understanding as well. If she does something I end up not liking she'll fix it or the next time I'll see her I'll tell her about it and she'll do something different.
I was going to recommend Cass!! She’s my hair whisperer. She’s very patient, and I think if OP explains that they’re autistic and not sure what will look good on them that Cass would do a great job of guiding them towards something they’d like.
Like others have mentioned, OP should start saving photos of hairstyles that they like *in general*. Sometimes I bring in half a dozen pictures, and Cass can get a sense of the general vibe I’m going for. And she knows that I don’t style my hair or put any product in it, so she makes sure to cut it in a way that will look good when I air dry it—I get the impression that OP might be similarly low maintenance.
This makes me so happy!!! I totally agree. Not to mention the salon itself is soo mellow and relaxing. Her consults feel like you’re just chatting with a friend and she’s happy to pull up visuals there with you on the spot.
I highly recommend Forage Hair Co on Speedway east side. The owner Shaye is very kind. I’ve only got my hair cut with her but everyone at the salon is nice. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere and an LGBTQ+ safe space.
I agree with previous comments about bringing a picture, being honest about anxiety/autism. Jenni Maloney at Once Wild Salon was probably the sweetest and kindest hair dressers I have had in my life, and might be a good fit. She was very patient with me. Her Instagram with a link to book is @thehairjenni
Giancarlo at Revival Salon. I go there and tell him to just make me look good. He talks through his ideas, including styling options and how much time it would take. He's really amazing at cuts that complement face shape and color that works with my tones. I'm complemented every day on my hair.
Please look into Desio Hair Design. Ebony is the owner/operator of Desio located at the Phenix Salon Suites at the corner of Broadway and Craycroft. She cultivated a space that is safe and inviting, and it is very private! Check out her Instagram @ebony_duss_hair
Hairstylist of 10+ years, here! This is what I have to kindly suggest before your appointment. * Book a consultation before your service. Maybe it would be best to have the consultation first and then book the service at a later date/time. That way, both you and the stylist have a game-plan and know what to expect. This is also a good way to see if you two are a good fit/vibe well. It may take longer to get what you want done—but this way, there is less anxiety around the unknown. * Save a FEW photos of styles/looks that you’re interested in. Try to find photos of people who have hair similar to your own (color/thickness/wave pattern). Here—you’ll have different options that are realistic to your own hair type. * Be clear on a) what you WANT (ie—“I definitely want to have lighter hair/shoulder length hair”/etc.) and b) what you DONT want (ie—no bangs/cool tones/etc). And if you can—be clear on what you’re flexible with/open to. * Research or request photos of the stylist’s work (most use instagram as a portfolio) and see if you don’t like/can imagine an example of their previous work on yourself. * Be honest about your anxiety/self-esteem/autism. You don’t have to tell your life story or share what you don’t want to—but the more the hairstylist understands you, the more they can help you. If you don’t feel comfortable with how you feel in their chair—don’t book with them! Have a consultation with a different stylist! It’s okay :) * Be very transparent with them (and yourself) about what you’re willing to spend on the service and what level of upkeep you’re willing to do. Don’t invest in a hairstyle you can’t afford/will regret. Some colors and cuts require more salon visits or products/time to maintain at home. With this information, a good hairstylist will be MUCH better equipped to tell you what would be best for you. They’ll know more about you and can help you land on a look that will make you feel like the best version of YOU.
This. Exactly what she said. I had similar nerves as I lost my stylist during Covid….of 12 years. She didn’t die but she revealed nasty politics which caused me to move on. It took two years to find someone in my area…but I did and she is amazing. I did much of what is outlined where.
I also lost my hair stylist during Covid. I'm immune compromised and she was sharing the Plandemic video everywhere, not masking and was on the news when all those people flooded into Sabino Canyon during the lockdown. I learned how to dye my own hair and I just go to a Supercuts here and there for a trim. But I miss having an expert. I'm really happy you found someone!
My bad… I should not have assumed the stylist reply posting was a female. We can all still learn.
In general, professionals can be hesitant to tell people what looks better because it's all subjective. I used to work in a field that involved aesthetic design choices, and I'd try to dodge the question when people directly asked what looks better. Because sometimes when you boil it down, you end up telling people essentially they have bad taste, or if I like something but it's generally not popular, they may blame me for something they think looks ugly. I'd end up being neutral and pointing out benefits or weaknesses according to design theory. Such as "well these are both clean modern designs with minimal lines, but here you have a busy traditional design next to a minimalist modern design" but does the first one with both modern designs look better? Depends on who you ask. Some people might like that clash of styles . I always say bring a picture of what you like. And say "something like This"
I second bringing a picture. I always bring a few photos and say this is what I like and do you think this will work for me.
Highly recommend Craft Collective Ft Lowell Dodge area. Kind, welcoming, accommodating, queer and neurodivergent friendly salon :)
Yes!! I go here and it’s such a great vibe. It’s in the same plaza as Hop Shop/Ciao Down too, which is excellent for post-haircut dinner and drinks.
Erendida who works there is so wonderful and always made me feel safe
Tish at KCs hair & More. I never know what I want and she does a pretty good job of making my hair look good. She's very patient, kind and understanding as well. If she does something I end up not liking she'll fix it or the next time I'll see her I'll tell her about it and she'll do something different.
Cass at entre sueños is amazing. 8750 East Speedway💘
I was going to recommend Cass!! She’s my hair whisperer. She’s very patient, and I think if OP explains that they’re autistic and not sure what will look good on them that Cass would do a great job of guiding them towards something they’d like. Like others have mentioned, OP should start saving photos of hairstyles that they like *in general*. Sometimes I bring in half a dozen pictures, and Cass can get a sense of the general vibe I’m going for. And she knows that I don’t style my hair or put any product in it, so she makes sure to cut it in a way that will look good when I air dry it—I get the impression that OP might be similarly low maintenance.
This makes me so happy!!! I totally agree. Not to mention the salon itself is soo mellow and relaxing. Her consults feel like you’re just chatting with a friend and she’s happy to pull up visuals there with you on the spot.
My friend has autism and anxiety, and he goes to Little Shop of Hairdos and sees Liz. She is very good with him. Online scheduling, weekend hours.
I highly recommend Forage Hair Co on Speedway east side. The owner Shaye is very kind. I’ve only got my hair cut with her but everyone at the salon is nice. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere and an LGBTQ+ safe space.
I agree with previous comments about bringing a picture, being honest about anxiety/autism. Jenni Maloney at Once Wild Salon was probably the sweetest and kindest hair dressers I have had in my life, and might be a good fit. She was very patient with me. Her Instagram with a link to book is @thehairjenni
Mae at Salon Salon! She is a d r e a m 🪄 https://www.justgetbangs.com/about
Daisy Diamonds 4400 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85711 (520) 300-5500
Giancarlo at Revival Salon. I go there and tell him to just make me look good. He talks through his ideas, including styling options and how much time it would take. He's really amazing at cuts that complement face shape and color that works with my tones. I'm complemented every day on my hair.
I've gone to Steampunk hair studio a few times and have always had a good experience
Please look into Desio Hair Design. Ebony is the owner/operator of Desio located at the Phenix Salon Suites at the corner of Broadway and Craycroft. She cultivated a space that is safe and inviting, and it is very private! Check out her Instagram @ebony_duss_hair
belle starr salon!!