Booking a new hairdresser feels like a gamble — you don’t really know if it’ll work out until you’re already sitting in the chair. But there are a few practical checks that take the guesswork out of it. Here’s what to look for before you book.
1. Read Reviews for Your Specific Hair Concern
A salon with hundreds of five-star reviews still might not be right for you if none of those reviews mention your hair type. Search reviews for keywords like “curly,” “fine hair,” “colour correction,” or whatever your main concern is, rather than just checking the overall star rating.
2. Ask What Happens at the Consultation
A proper first appointment should include:
- A conversation about what you want — and why
- An honest look at your hair’s current condition
- Feedback if what you’re picturing doesn’t suit your hair type, texture, or the amount of upkeep you’re realistically willing to do
If a salon skips straight to cutting or colouring without this step, that’s a flag. Iconic Salons in Osborne Park, for example, builds this into every first appointment specifically so there are no surprises at the end.
3. Check Their Specialties, Not Just Their Service List
Almost every salon lists “colour” and “cuts” on their menu. Fewer specialise in things like:
- Keratin smoothing and nanoplasty treatments
- Curly hair cutting techniques
- Bridal and event styling
- Men’s grooming and barbering
If the service you want is a specialty rather than an afterthought, you’ll usually get a better result.
4. Confirm Pricing Before You Book
Hair services are rarely flat-rate — cost depends on length, thickness, and condition. A trustworthy salon will either give you a clear price range upfront or offer a quick phone or in-person consultation to quote accurately, rather than surprising you at checkout.
5. Look at Location and Booking Flexibility
The best hairdresser in Perth is one you’ll actually get to. Factor in:
- Distance from home or work
- Weekend or after-hours availability
- Whether they offer online booking
A slightly less “hyped” salon that’s five minutes away and easy to book beats a highly-rated one across town that you’ll skip appointments with.
6. Ask About Hygiene Standards for Chemical Services
For anything involving chemical treatments — keratin smoothing, colour, eyebrow tattooing, skin needling — it’s fair to ask how tools are sanitised and how often product batches are refreshed. A good salon won’t be bothered by the question.
7. Trust the First Interaction
How a salon handles your first phone call or booking enquiry is often a preview of the whole experience. Are they responsive? Do they ask good questions? Do they seem rushed or genuinely interested in getting it right?
The Bottom Line
Choosing a hairdresser in Perth comes down to matching your specific hair needs — type, condition, and the look you’re after — with a salon that specialises in that, prices transparently, and is realistic to get to. Once you find that fit, appointments stop being a gamble.
Looking for a unisex salon in Perth’s northern suburbs? Iconic Salons in Osborne Park offers hairdressing, straightening treatments, and beauty services with 22+ years of experience — book a consultation to see if it’s the right fit
Part of our Perth hairdressers guide. Read the full pillar post: Hairdressers in Perth: The Complete Guide
