10 Questions to Discuss at Your Next Hair Appointment

Walking into a salon can feel a little daunting sometimes — there are new faces, lots of tools and products, and a whole vocabulary that might feel unfamiliar. Whether you’ve been seeing your stylist for years or you’re sitting in a new chair for the first time, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about what to ask.

But a hair appointment isn’t just about the end result. It’s a chance to ask questions, learn what suits you, and make decisions that support your hair in a way that feels right for your lifestyle. So whether you’re thinking about a total restyle, a fresh colour, or simply maintaining what you love, these ten questions can help guide the conversation.

Here’s what to ask at your next appointment

1. How often should I be washing my hair?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Everyone’s hair behaves differently — it depends on your scalp, your hair type, how often you exercise, and even what the weather’s doing. Your stylist can help you find a rhythm that works for you. Sometimes, washing less often helps protect your hair’s natural oils and colour. It’s about balance, not perfection.

2. What suits my face shape?

Not every haircut or fringe works with every face shape — and that’s completely okay. A good stylist will look at your face shape and bone structure and help suggest styles that frame, balance or enhance your features. Of course, if you’re drawn to something more statement or alternative, that’s valid too. The most important thing is that you feel good.

3. What hair colour suits my skin tone?

Colour can do amazing things — brighten your eyes, soften your features, or even make your skin glow. But finding the right shade for your skin tone isn’t always straightforward. A professional can help you identify whether you have a warm, cool, or neutral tone and talk through shades that work harmoniously with your natural colouring. It's not about strict rules, but about enhancing what’s already there.

4. Will this style work with my hair type?

You might fall in love with a style online — but does it work for your hair’s natural texture, density or movement? Your stylist can help you adapt an idea to your real-life hair. Whether it’s thick and curly, fine and straight, or somewhere in between, your hair type deserves a style that complements it, not fights against it.

5. How much maintenance will this need?

Some styles require more upkeep than others — and that’s not always obvious at first glance. If you’re low-fuss and prefer minimal styling at home, or you’d rather not commit to regular appointments, it’s worth chatting through what your chosen style will involve. That includes trims, toners, treatments, and how often you might need to come back in to keep things looking their best.

6. What should I be using at home?

Between-salon care is just as important as what happens in the chair. If you’re not sure what shampoo, conditioner or styling products you should be using — just ask. Your stylist can recommend something based on your specific hair type and goals, so you’re not left guessing (or wasting money on the wrong thing).

7. How do I style this at home?

Recreating a salon finish at home isn’t always easy — but a good stylist will walk you through it. Ask for practical tips and real advice. From how to hold your hairdryer, to which brush is best, to how to build volume or tame frizz — these little nuggets of wisdom can make your day-to-day styling feel more achievable.

✅ Do you have the right tools? (e.g. brushes, straighteners, diffusers)
✅ Are you using the right technique for your hair type?
✅ Is your styling routine realistic for your daily life?
✅ Are your products supporting the result you want — or working against it?

It’s all about giving you the knowledge and confidence to work with your hair – not against it – so your style lasts longer and feels more ‘you’ every day.

8. How healthy is my hair?

Treatments are one of the most overlooked parts of a healthy hair routine — but they’re especially important if you colour your hair, use heat tools regularly, or notice signs of dryness or breakage.

When hair is exposed to chemical services or high heat, its internal structure weakens over time. That’s why incorporating a bonding treatment or deep-conditioning masque at least once a week is essential to maintain strength, elasticity, and shine.

In the salon, our stylists can perform quick strength, moisture, and elasticity tests to check what your hair actually needs — not just what it looks like it needs. From there, we can guide you on how to use treatments effectively at home.

Giving your hair this kind of regular TLC can make a huge difference in how it looks, feels, and behaves between appointments.

9. Am I using the right equipment?
Not all tools are created equal. Ask your stylist to show you what they’re using — whether it's the right diffuser, the perfect round brush size, or the best way to angle your hairdryer. Knowing what to use (and how!) can totally transform your at-home routine.

10. Can I book in today to keep this look fresh?
Don’t leave it too late — your stylist can help you plan your next few appointments so your colour stays fresh, your cut keeps its shape, and your hair always feels salon-new.

Ready to elevate your hair game?

Let’s create a look that works for you. Book now by filling out the consultation form here and come into Arena for a warm, calming, and relaxed salon experience.

Or fill out our online consultation and get more free bespoke advice.