Clients often come into the salon with deeply ingrained hair habits—some of which may be doing more harm than good. Whether it's daily heat styling without protection, aggressive towel drying, or using the wrong type of shampoo, these habits can undermine even the best salon treatments. However, correcting a client’s routine without making them feel criticized requires tact, education, and a little psychology.
Start with Observation, Not Judgment
Rather than immediately telling a client they’re damaging their hair, start by asking questions during the consultation. “How does your hair usually feel by the end of the day?” or “What’s your current styling routine?” allows them to share their habits without feeling attacked. This approach makes the conversation feel collaborative instead of corrective.
Use the ‘Instead of That, Try This’ Approach
People are more receptive to change when given a clear, easy-to-follow alternative. Instead of saying, “You should never brush wet hair,” reframe it as, “A wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush can glide through wet hair without causing breakage.” Offering solutions rather than just pointing out mistakes shifts the focus to improvement rather than blame.
Educate with Science, Not Opinions
Clients may be skeptical of new advice, especially if they've followed the same routine for years. Backing up recommendations with simple explanations—like how over-washing can strip natural oils or how heat without protection weakens the hair shaft—helps them understand the “why” behind the advice. Even better, demonstrating results in real time (such as applying heat protectant to one section and leaving another untreated) can visually reinforce the difference.
Make It Personal
If a client resists change, tie the advice to their specific hair goals. Instead of a general warning about sulfates, explain how certain ingredients could be making their color fade faster. When they see a direct benefit, they’re more likely to listen.
Empower, Don’t Shame
Clients should leave feeling encouraged, not embarrassed. Acknowledge what they’re doing right and introduce new habits as an upgrade rather than a correction. “Your waves are beautiful! If you swap your cotton towel for a microfiber one, you’ll notice even less frizz,” feels supportive rather than critical.
Breaking bad hair habits is about education, not confrontation. By approaching the conversation with patience, expertise, and a focus on solutions, stylists can guide clients toward healthier choices without making them feel like they’ve been doing it all wrong. After all, a client who feels supported is far more likely to return—and trust your advice in the future.