What to ask when finding a good salon?

[SouthernStunner]

Well I just moved to Guam about 7 months ago and I was lucky to find a lady that does hair and very well. My problem is I am doing the C&G right now and I am not getting a perm until May 09 and she will be leaving at that time. My question is what are some questions I need a ask before I let someone come at me with a chemical or sicorrs? I may even have to go to a non black person. I just need to start looking now so I can be ready when the time comes.

TIA

 

[The Princess]

What products do they use. Also if you don't like their products, can you bring your own. Do they practice healthy hair growth. Do they have professionals that specialize in doing your hair type? Thats just a starter. Others will chime in.

 

[SouthernStunner]

Thank you, I am actually making a list.

Bumping for others.................................................

 

[soulie]

My first visit to a stylist will NEVER be for a cut or a chemical process. The stylist has to "audition" for me doing something relatively harmless - like a roller set or maybe a blowdry and style.

During that visit I am going to be watching technique: does she "rip" through my NG with a comb, does she take the time to properly detangle; does she listen to what I say, what I request; is she time-conscious: I'm not waiting 2 hours for an appointment, and I'm not getting shuffled off to a hair dryer to kill time because she's running an hour behind, or because she overbooks; is she willing to teach: e.g., I told my stylist that I've never had skill at blowdrying or flatironing and she turned my chair so I was facing the mirror, handed me a hand mirror so I could see the back too and proceeded to teach me while she was doing my hair. Is the stylist willing to help you help yourself? Will she honestly tell you what products she is using so you can use them at home and/or will she take into consideration what you are already using and maybe just recommend something to supplement your existing regimen. Big one for me: is her bigger concern the health of your hair or the health of her wallet? If your hair is too damaged for a relaxer, will she tell you that you aren't ready, or would she just do it anyway without doing anything to improve the condition of your hair first?

Reading this over, I now understand why I have such a difficult time finding a stylist