<![CDATA[Hair by Brian | San Francisco FiDi Union Square

This is a very well written article, chalked full of valuable insight and information.

I have a few take-aways from the article:

1) Social Media Influencers are ruining the salon industry and have been for a while now. And not just the salon industry either.

2) Who in the heck goes to a "stylist" that isn't licensed? We call these individuals "kitchen cosmetologist." That's on you if you don't get what you want or your hair melts or breaks off. God forbid you don't have an allergic reaction to haircolor because they don't know how to do a patch test. Any of this could happen with licensed cosmetologist, too, but more likely by someone who hasn't put in the hours of training and eduction to get their license.

"Still, it's important to note that there is a risk when booking hair appointments with social media stylists who are not licensed since there are fewer restrictions than what professional salons would require regarding pricing, a cosmetology license, hygiene, and more."

3) No consultation before someone touches your hair is asking for trouble. A consultation should be an analysis of your hair type and texture, let you know if the style you are wanting is suitable for your face shape, hair type, haircare routine & lifestyle, give you a pretty close estimate as to what the service should cost, how long it will take, and if it might take multiple appointments to achieve the look you want. You'll also know whether the stylist is someone you're comfortable with. This is a relationship you're establishing. And these are just are very bare minimums.

4) Celebrity hair (both women and men) has been manipulated for a photo shoot, movie or event. Usually by a team of stylists. If you're not willing to put in the time (blow-drying, styling and regular appointments) you'll blame me because you can't achieve the look. See #3 above.

5) DO NOT BELIEVE MOST OF WHAT YOU SEE OR READ ON TIKTOK. PERIOD. The internet has a lot of misinformation when it comes to safe hair care. This probably should have been the #1 take-away.

"The landscape of hair salon culture has changed indefinitely with the rise of social media and hair stylists taking clients at home rather than being contracted with a salon. So be wary of whether a salon or stylist has hidden service fees or scheduling charges. And when it comes to finding a good salon, Stephen says to scope out the location before your appointment “to see if the space is clean.” Other tell-all signs to gauge reputable stylists or salons include checking stylists' licenses, reviewing their online portfolios, and communicating beforehand with your stylists about all appointment fees and surprise add-ons before they put their hands on your head."