1. Tell your stylist about yourself (your job, style, versatility, hair concern, hair condition, how you style your hair, the time you spend getting ready, your commitment to coloring your hair, and your long term goals).

2. Bring your inspiration ( photographs and examples of hair color you love will help you and your stylist explore your color options).

3. Know your history ( be prepared to tell your stylist about any prior color services, whether it was balayage last year or a keratin last month).

4. Trust your stylist ( listen to your stylist’s expert opinion. During your consultation stylist will consider your desired results, then evaluate your hair’s condition and look at your skin tone and coloring in order to create your custom color formulation).

5. Ask questions ( if you hear a hair color term you don’t understand, don’t hesitate to ask for an explanation. Remember to inquire about maintenance – how often you’ll need to return to the salon for touch-ups, and how to best maintain your hair color at home between visits with professional haircare products).