The Good Hair Blog

Tag: New Hairstylist Advice

  • Revolutionize Your Hair Routine: The Ultimate Hydration, Moisture, and Repair Breakdown

    Have you ever wondered what the real differences are between hydrating, moisturizing, and reparative shampoos? You’re definitely not alone! It seems like there’s a bit of confusion about which type of shampoo or conditioner is best for certain hair needs. In this post, we’ll explore exactly what each type of shampoo does—hydrating, moisturizing, and reparative—so you can choose the best option for your hair’s unique needs. We’ll also share practical tips on how and when to use each one. As a stylist, I’ve worked with so many amazing guests who trust my product recommendations, and that’s fantastic. But I also see people who end up buying whatever they see on social media—hey, no judgment, I get it!

    Still, I want everyone sitting in my chair (and in any stylist’s chair) to feel confident about choosing the right products. Even if you’re someone who likes to do your own research without asking for advice, this little guide is for you. Let’s clear the air and find the perfect products for your hair!

    Can you believe shampoo can be traced all the way back to 16th-century India? People back then created natural hair-cleansing formulas using herbs, soapnuts (reetha), amla, hibiscus, and essential oils—long before commercial shampoos ever existed. British colonial traders encountered these innovative practices and introduced the concept to Europe, setting the stage for modern haircare as we know it.

    Today, shampoo is commonly defined as “to wash (the head or hair), especially with a cleaning preparation that does not leave a soap film.” Over time, these cleansers have evolved into specialized formulas for different needs. And that’s exactly why we’re here—to help you choose the right one for you!

    What you really want to pay attention to are these key factors:

    • Is it hydrating?
    • Is it moisturizing?
    • Is it reparative (often labeled as anti-breakage)?

    These three points form the foundation for choosing the right shampoo. Once you know which category you need, you can start considering additional features, like whether it’s volumizing, oil-based, or formulated for curls.

    So, what’s the difference?
    Many people see “hydrating” and “moisturizing” and assume they’re the same thing—but they’re not. Here’s a quick guide to help you tell them apart (and see where “repairing” fits into the mix):

    1. Hydrating Shampoo
      Think of it like giving your hair a drink of water. Hydrating formulas focus on adding water into the hair to make it feel soft, flexible, and less dry. This is especially helpful if your hair feels rough, brittle, or “thirsty” (dehydrated).
    2. Moisturizing Shampoo
      This is all about sealing that water in. Moisturizing shampoos use oils, butters, or other ingredients to lock in moisture, helping your hair stay soft and smooth. If your hair feels dry, frizzy, or hard to manage because it can’t hold onto moisture, a moisturizing formula can work wonders.
    3. Repairing (Anti-Breakage) Shampoo
      These formulas add proteins and bond-repair ingredients to rebuild and strengthen damaged or broken hair. Think of it as “gluing” the broken pieces back together.

    In a nutshell:

    • Hydration = water going into the hair
    • Moisture = keeping that water in
    • Repairing = fixing broken bonds from the inside out

    Some shampoos do a bit of everything, but if your hair is extremely dry, you might want both a hydrating and moisturizing shampoo—or at least a good conditioner to follow. And sometimes, your hair might need all three approaches!

    Each of these shampoo types has its own pros and cons. Not sure when to use them—or when to take a break? Here’s a handy guide:

    Hydrating Shampoos

    • Use
      • When you’re having trouble brushing through your hair or notice split ends.
      • If your hair feels rough, brittle, or “thirsty.”
    • Stop
      • Once your hair feels back to its luscious self.
      • If it starts feeling weighed down (a sign you’ve replenished enough moisture).

    Moisturizing Shampoos

    • Use
      • When your hair is already fairly hydrated, but you want to maintain that level of moisture.
    • Stop
      • If your hair starts feeling dry again, no matter how much moisture you add—switch back to hydrating or try a reparative formula.

    Repairing Shampoos

    • Use
      • After an intensive color service.
      • If your hair no longer holds onto hydration (another sign of damage).
    • Stop
      • Once your hair feels back to normal (though this can take longer if your hair is bleached).
      • If your hair becomes drier—the overuse of reparative products can aggravate your hair.

    Hairdressers often recommend rotating through these types of shampoos if you don’t want to stick to one consistently. After all, too much of a good thing can sometimes become a bad thing. Pay attention to the signs that it’s time to switch, and if you’re unsure, ask a professional—it never hurts to get a second opinion about what’s really going on with your hair!.

    Story time.

    I had a lovely guest come see me after a year of traveling, and we had a blast catching up. When she took her hair down from the cute bun she was wearing, I noticed it had grown super long—but it also had a lot of breakage. I’d never seen her hair in such rough shape before! During our consultation, she wanted to keep as much length as possible but remove what wasn’t serving her, so we agreed on a shampoo and conditioner regimen to bring her hair back to health. After about four haircut visits, her hair was once again luscious and healthy. I emphasized the importance of good hair care if she wanted to maintain all that new length she’d gained.

    Another time I realized just how crucial shampoo can be was at my previous salon. One of my guests had a color service with another stylist, and the harsh chemicals left her with the worst breakage she’d ever experienced as a blonde. We talked about getting serious with her haircare, and the real game-changer was the shampoo we chose. Instead of using the salon’s usual line, I recommended Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo to help her retain both hydration and moisture. By her next appointment, her hair was so improved it was practically unrecognizable. It just goes to show that the foundation of any great hair care routine truly starts with choosing the right shampoo and conditioner!

      When you’re considering hydration, moisture, or reparative needs in your haircare routine, it’s always a good idea to start by chatting with a professional. I encourage you to do your own research and truly listen to your hair—this will help you figure out exactly what it needs. If you’re unsure whether you need rich moisture or weightless hydration, here are some common shampoo terms and what they usually indicate: 

    Lighter Shampoos (Won’t Weigh Hair Down)

    • Lightweight – Formulated to avoid buildup and keep hair feeling light.
    • Volumizing – Boosts body for fine or limp hair without extra weight.
    • Clarifying – Deep-cleans scalp and hair, removing excess oil and product buildup (can be drying if overused).
    • Weightless – Hydrates or nourishes without making hair greasy or flat.
    • Balancing – A middle-ground formula that cleans without overloading hair with moisture.
    • Hydrating – May be lightweight if combined with words like “weightless” or “for fine hair.”

    Heavier/Richer Shampoos (Best for Dry, Coarse, or Damaged Hair)

    • Moisturizing – Adds richness to help tackle dryness and frizz.
    • Nourishing – A step up from moisturizing; often includes oils and butters.
    • Replenishing – Restores moisture, usually with a heavier texture.
    • Smoothing – Tames frizz and flyaways with richer, creamier formulas.
    • Repairing / Strengthening – Uses proteins to rebuild hair, which can make the product feel heavier.
    • Rich / Intensive – Extremely creamy, ideal for very dry, damaged, or coarse hair.

    If your hair is fine or gets weighed down easily, opt for a lightweight or volumizing shampoo. If it’s dry, curly, or coarse, a richer shampoo will give you the moisture you need. As brands continue to evolve their formulas, remember that the foundation of shampoo and conditioner comes down to three core focuses: hydration, moisture, and repair. Identifying which one your hair needs most is the key to a healthier, happier mane!

    Everything I’ve shared here comes from my real-world experience working with all kinds of hair. If you have any questions, let’s chat during your next salon visit—I’m always excited to help you find the perfect routine! For an extra deep dive, many haircare brands post detailed ingredient glossaries on their websites, so feel free to explore what’s actually in your shampoo. Industry groups (like the Professional Beauty Association) regularly publish articles on the latest trends and best practices, which is a fun way to stay in the loop. And remember, your hair’s needs can change with the seasons, your diet, or even stress levels. Pay attention to how it feels each week, and don’t be shy about switching things up as needed!

  • Your First Year Behind the Chair: What to Expect (and How to Survive It!)

    So, you’re about to start your hairdressing career — congratulations, babe! You’ve made it through beauty school, and now it’s time to hit the salon floor. But real talk: do you know what to expect in your first year?

    If no one has told you yet — welcome to the inside scoop. I’m here to break it down, keep it real, and give you the heads-up I wish someone had given me when I was a baby hairdresser. Let’s dive in!

    💸 Let’s Talk Money, Honey!

    First things first — will you be rolling in cash right away?
    Spoiler alert: probably not.

    Here’s the honest truth:

    • You won’t make crazy money right away. It takes time to build a solid clientele and see a good paycheck.
    • Be prepared for unexpected obstacles — things like slow days, no-shows, and cancellations.
    • You might need a side hustle (no shame in that game) to support yourself while you’re growing your business.

    💡 Consider Assisting!

    If you can, assist in a salon that offers education. It may not make you rich, but it’ll give you a steady income andpriceless hands-on training. Think of it as getting paid to learn (plus tips!).

    💡 Booth Rental & Suites — Not Always First-Year Friendly

    Sure, being your own boss sounds fab — but booth rental and salon suites take time to build. You’ll need a solid client base to keep up with rent and expenses, so it might not be the best first step.

    💡 Chain Salons = Steady Paycheck (and Benefits!)

    If you’re after a consistent paycheck and possible benefits like health insurance, working at a chain salon can be a great launchpad to gain experience and earn while you learn.

    🎓 Education & Training — Never Stop Learning!

    Let’s be real: you don’t stop learning when you leave beauty school. Your first year is all about leveling up!

    🧡 Apprenticeships

    If you land an apprenticeship, take full advantage! You’ll get:

    • Mentorship from experienced stylists
    • A team mentality and support system
    • A safe space to grow your confidence

    🧡 Stay Curious

    Even if you’re on your own, seek out education:

    • Take classes (online or in person!)
    • Ask questions — lots of them!
    • Shadow stylists you admire — nothing beats watching pros work in real time.

    ✂️ Skills to Master First:

    • Cutting
    • Styling
    • Color
    • Updos and event hair

    Once you’ve got the basics down, you can branch out into extensions, smoothing treatments, specialty color, and cuts.

    🌎 Learn All Hair Types

    Important PSA: There is no such thing as “difficult hair” — only a lack of knowledge. Take the time to educate yourself on all hair types and textures, so you can confidently serve every client who sits in your chair.

    📋 Know Your Price Menu + Products

    • Know what your salon offers — so you’re ready when clients ask.
    • Learn the products you’re using — not to sell, but to prescribe the right care to keep your clients’ hair healthy (think of yourself like a hair doctor, not a salesperson).

    💖 Building a Clientele — Your #1 Goal!

    This is the most important part of your first year — building a clientele that will keep you booked and busy!

    Here are my top 4 rules that I swear by:

    1. Walk-Ins Are Gold

    Treat every walk-in like a VIP. Blow them away, and you’ll turn them into loyal clients.

    2. Word of Mouth

    Happy clients = free advertising. Don’t be shy — ASK for referrals! People love to share a great experience.

    3. Pre-Book, Always!

    Want a steady income? Pre-book EVERY client before they leave. This is hands down your best insurance for a full book.

    4. The 80/20 Rule (Listen More Than You Talk!)

    During the service:

    • You talk 20%, client talks 80%.
    • Why? Because listening builds trust and connection. Clients love to feel heard.
    • Bonus: You’ll learn exactly what they want (and avoid misunderstandings).

    😬 Redos — Yep, They’ll Happen (and It’s Okay!)

    Let’s normalize the redo. It happens to EVERYONE — even seasoned stylists.

    Here’s how to handle it like a pro:

    • Don’t take it personally. Seriously, don’t. If you get defensive, things can spiral fast.
    • Stay calm. Take a breath — this isn’t the end of the world.
    • Communicate. Most redos are just misunderstandings — either on your end or the client’s. Talk it out and own your part if needed.
    • Never argue. If your client is upset, don’t match that energy — stay professional and focus on a solution.
    • Find a resolution. Whether it’s adjusting a cut, tweaking a color, or creating a grow-out plan, do your best to make it right.
    • Know you won’t fix them all. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a client won’t be happy. That’s part of the job — and it’s okay.

    ✨ Final Thoughts: You’re in Control of Your First Year!

    Your first year behind the chair is what you make of it. You’ll have ups and downs, wins and redos — but with the right mindset, you’ll build a strong foundation for a long, successful career.

    Remember:

    • Be patient. Great things take time.
    • Stay disciplined. Keep learning, keep showing up.
    • Build connections. With clients, with peers, with mentors.
    • Stay kind to yourself. You’re learning. Give yourself grace.

    💬 Got questions about your first year? Drop them below — let’s help each other out!

  • Commission vs. Booth Rental: Which Salon Life Is Right for You?

    If you’re finishing up beauty school—congratulations! You’re about to enter an exciting, creative, and ever-changing industry. And if you’re already working behind the chair—that’s amazing—this post might help you as well.

    One of the things I really wish I had when I was a baby hairdresser was more information and details about how things work in this industry—especially when it came to choosing the right salon environment. One of those gray areas for me was figuring out what kind of salon I wanted to start in. I knew I needed a place that offered education and assisting, but beyond that, I had no idea where to begin.

    So, if you’re feeling unsure about what kind of salon setup will work best for you, I totally get it—and that’s why I put this post together. Whether you’re new to the industry and need guidance, or you’ve been around the block and are thinking of making a change, I hope this helps you with your decision-making and gives you the clarity you need to move forward.Let’s break down the options and find what fits you best!

    Part 1: What Is It Like Working in a Commission-Based Salon?

    A commission-based salon is where you earn a percentage of what you bring in—services, product sales, etc. The commission rate can vary, but it typically ranges from 40% to 60% of the service or product price.

    What Makes Commission Salons a Great Option?

    • ✨ Team Mentality — You’re part of a team. Everyone is working together to create an amazing experience for clients.
    • ✨ Help Building Your Book — Since you’re working under an established salon name, you’ll benefit from their branding, reputation, and advertising. They’ll help get clients in the door (but you’ll still need to market yourself, too).
    • ✨ Tools & Products Provided — Most commission salons supply products, tools, and everything you need to work, so you can just focus on your craft.
    • ✨ Ongoing Education & Training — Many commission salons offer continued education, in-house classes, and mentorship to keep you sharp and learning.
    • ✨ Growth Opportunities — You may have the chance to move up into management, education, or mentoring roles as you grow in the salon.
    • ✨ Possible Benefits — Some commission salons offer benefits like 401k plans, health insurance, and paid time off (though not always, so it’s worth asking).

    Things to Consider About Commission Salons:

    • 💡 Perfect for New Stylists — If you’re just starting out, this is often the best way to build a clientele and learn how the business works.
    • 💡 Learning Environment — You’ll have support from owners, managers, and other stylists to help you hone your craft and troubleshoot.
    • 💡 Structure & Discipline — You’ll likely have a set schedule, which helps create discipline and consistency—two things that will make you a better stylist and help your income grow.
    • 💡 Built-in Community — Being surrounded by other stylists can inspire you, challenge you, and help you grow faster.

    Part 2: What Are the Benefits of Booth Rental or Salon Suites?

    In a booth rental setup, you rent your space within a salon and operate as an independent contractor. You typically pay a fixed weekly or monthly rent and keep the rest of what you earn.

    What Makes Booth Rental & Salon Suites Attractive?

    • 💰 Keep More of What You Earn — Once you pay your rent, the rest is yours.
    • 🎨 Total Control — You set your prices, hours, and services. You decide what products you use and how you brand yourself.
    • 🏠 Salon Environment or Suite — Some booth rental salons still offer shared spaces like a reception area and lobby. Suites may give you more privacy and control, but may not offer a front desk.
    • 📋 Run Your Own Business — You’ll manage your own clients, booking, payments, taxes, insurance, and licenses.

    Things to Consider About Booth Rental & Suites:

    • 💡 Best for Stylists with a Strong Client Base — If you already have steady, loyal clients, this could be the next step.
    • 💡 You’re the Boss (and the Employee) — It’s all on you—from scheduling to taxes. You’ll need to be organized and understand your budget, expenses, and profit margins.
    • 💡 Continuous Learning is on You — Without a team or built-in education, you’ll need to seek out your own training to stay sharp and competitive.
    • 💡 Discipline is Everything — Consistency will make or break your business. You’ll need to market yourself, manage your time, and stay motivated even when it gets tough.
    • 💡 Responsibility for Expenses — You’ll be covering rent, supplies, insurance, licensing fees, and all other costs of doing business.

    Final Thoughts

    Choosing between commission and booth rental/suite life comes down to where you’re at in your career and what kind of support (or independence) you want.

    • ➡️ If you’re new, commission salons offer structure, education, and a team to help you grow.
    • ➡️ If you’re experienced with a strong clientele, booth rental or a suite can give you freedom and control over your business.

    No matter where you are, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it’s about finding what works best for you, your goals, and your lifestyle.

    Let’s Chat!

    If you’ve got questions about either path—or if you’ve made the switch and have wisdom to share—drop a comment! Let’s make this a community where we help each other grow.