Cheaper haircuts, barber and salon visits

Our hygiene and appearance says a lot about who we are and what we do. Ladies may choose to style their hair in trendy, and fashionable styles to reflect their personalities, whereas business men and women may require a clean-cut, professional look to give their clients and coworkers the best impression. No matter who you are, or what kind of style you are looking for we have some money saving tips for your barber and salon visits.

1. Extend time between haircuts- People usually get their hair cut every six weeks. Save some money by jumping this up to eight. The two week difference won't make a noticeable change in your style, but will make a noticeable amount of extra cash in your wallet. Men: Get your significant other to help you shave the back of your neck if you wear your hair short...it keeps you looking neat between cuts.
2. Do away with dramatic colors- If you color treat your hair, stick with a shade that is close to your natural color. By doing this, you won't need to go to the salon quite as often for touch-ups.
3. Deep condition at home- You can buy deep conditioners and relaxers at beauty supply stores, and save money by performing these treatments by yourself at home. When shopping look for words like "Hair mask" or "Deep conditioning treatment", instead of the regular conditioner.
4. Color at home too- Boxed hair colors have come a long way! If you dye your hair a simple, solid color like brown or black, you can save hundreds annually by coloring your hair at home. Nervous? Ask a friend to help.
5. Skip the extras- They may not tell you this, but many salons charge you for washing, conditioning, drying, and styling your hair in addition to the regular cut. Save a little cash by just opting out of all the additional services, and just come by for the cut. It is recommended that you wash and condition your hair right before visiting the barber, as wet hair is easier to cut.
6. Do minor cuts at home- Invest in a quality pair of barber's scissors or an electric razor to do minor things like trimming bangs at home.
7. Go for a layered 'do- Layered dos are always in style, and look great when they grow out for a longer period of time than a straight-across look
8. Visit a school- Cosmetology, Hair styling and barber schools offer deeply discounted cut and style services from their students. Don't worry, they will not let students cut or color a clients hair until they are deemed "ready" by instructors and possess all the skills needed. You can get a trendy hair cut for less than half the price of a big-time salon!
9. Ask about a members program- Salons across the nation have programs for repeat clients to keep them loyal. Perks include discounts, punch cards that you can ear a free cut or service with, or free products. Go ahead and ask your stylist!
10. Remember, your stylist gets paid commission- At the end of the cut, many barbers and stylists will attempt to sell you a product, saying that its simply the best, and nessacary to keep your hair in the best shape and will have you looking like a super model. Most people don't know that the employees are paid a commission for selling retail products within their shops and salons. For much, much less you can get an imitation product that is comparable to the premium products sold at salons. Try any of the products from the Generic Value Products line (available at Sally's Beauty Supply), or Suave's new line of professional quality products, Suave Professionals
11. Go to a neighborhood barber shop or beauty college- If you are used to going to the high-end salons, try a visit to the neighborhood barber shop or beauty college. You might be surprised about the quality of service you can get by spending just a little.  Nervous about it?  Try just a trim first and get to know a particular barber or stylist first.