How Much to Tip Hairdresser (2024)

You probably already know you should tip your hairdresser - but how much? Keep reading for the proper hair salon etiquette.

A bad haircut can ruin your confidence and take weeks to grow out. That's why finding your perfect hairdresser is important. When you find someone you connect with, you always go back.

But if you're not sure how much to tip your hairstylist, you're not alone. The amount you tip can vary depending on the service.

Find out just how much you should tip with this handy guide.

How much should you tip your hairdresser?

Most people tip 20% at the hair salon. At the lowest end, some people tip 10%. Some folks are more generous and tip 25% - 30%.

You want to tip more if the stylist squeezes you in at the last minute or you need to bring your children into the salon. Basically, any reason that may require more work from the salon staff than a typical haircut.

People who have short hair or require regular color touch-ups typically tip less (like 15%) because their beauty bill is already so high.

But if you want to play it safe, a 20% tip is a good baseline for your next hair appointment.

How much do you tip for a $100 hair color?

You should tip 18% - 22% for good service and 25% for excellent service. A quality hair coloring requires a lot of skill and your hairdresser should feel appreciated for their hard work.

How much should you tip on a $200 hair service?

You should start at a 20% tip as a fair baseline. And if the service and the result are exceptional, you should tip 25%.

How much do you tip a hairdresser at Christmas? An additional holiday 'bonus' of $15 - $30 is a good way to thank your stylist for all their work throughout the year. If you've been going to them for a long time, you can even tip a little more as a more personal 'thank you'.

Hairdresser tipping cheat sheet

Here's a quick primer on what you should tip for haircuts, depending on the cost:

Haircut price

• $60 haircut - $12 tip
  
• $100 haircut - $20 tip
  
• $120 haircut - $24 tip
  
• $150 haircut - $30 tip
  
• $200 haircut - $40 tip
  
• $300 haircut - $60 tip
  
• $400 haircut - $80 tip
  
• $500 haircut - $100 tip

Should you tip the hairdresser assistant?

You should compensate the hairdresser assistant for their labor and service. If the assistant is only washing your hair, you can tip $1 - $3, and if they're brushing out your hair and drying it, then $5 - $7 is a good amount.

Bottom line

Graduation? You go to your hairstylist for the perfect bouncy curls on your big day. Bad breakup? You bring a photo of a pixie cut or edgy bob to introduce a change in your life. Maid of honor? They make sure you look good and fit the bride's wedding theme.

It's only appropriate to tip them for their expertise, skillset, and personalized service. Start at 20% as a baseline and if the service is really excellent, up to 30%.