Haircut Tipping Guide: How Much to Tip Your Stylist in 2025

Ever left a salon wondering if you tipped enough? You’re not alone. Tipping can feel confusing, especially when prices vary between a simple trim and a full color. This guide breaks down the basics so you can walk out feeling confident and appreciated.

General Tipping Rules

Most people tip 15‑20% of the total service cost. If you only got a haircut, calculate the tip on the price listed on the receipt. For example, a £40 cut becomes a £6‑£8 tip. If you’re happy with the result, lean toward the higher end.

When you book multiple services—say a cut and a colour—add them together first, then apply the percentage. A £40 cut plus a £80 colour equals £120; a 20% tip is £24. This keeps everything consistent and avoids the mental math of tip‑by‑service.

Cash is still king. Stylists love cash because it lands in their pocket right away, and there’s no processing fee. If you pay by card, most salons let you add a tip on the terminal. Just double‑check the amount before confirming.

Special Situations

First‑time clients often feel extra pressure. If it’s your inaugural visit, a 20% tip shows you trust the stylist and value their work. If the salon offers a junior stylist for a lower price, you can tip the junior at the same rate—stylists appreciate fairness across the board.

What about extra services like a scalp massage, deep conditioning, or a blow‑dry? Treat those as part of the overall bill. If the additional service isn’t listed separately, just calculate the tip on the final total.

Sometimes the price seems steep, but the results are amazing. In those cases, a generous tip (up to 25%) can turn a good relationship into a great one. Stylists remember who tipped well, and you’ll often get priority booking or a discount on future visits.

On the flip side, if you’re dissatisfied, you don’t have to tip the full 15‑20%. It’s okay to tip a lower amount or skip it entirely, but consider giving constructive feedback instead. A honest chat can help the stylist improve and may even earn you a free touch‑up later.

Group bookings, like a bridal party, can be tricky. A common approach is to tip each stylist individually based on the services they performed. If you’re paying one bill for the whole group, divide the tip evenly among the stylists.

Remember, tipping is a thank‑you, not a requirement. The key is to match the tip to the quality of service and your budget. A quick rule of thumb: if you leave feeling great, aim for the higher end of the range.

So next time you sit in the stylist’s chair, you’ll know exactly how much to tip and why. It keeps the vibe positive, the stylist happy, and you’ll likely get that coveted next‑appointment slot.