How much to tip a hairdresser in the UK?

How much to tip a hairdresser in the UK?
Tipping is one of those things that everyone has an opinion on, but nobody really wants to talk about. In the UK, we don’t have a strong tipping culture like they do across the pond. You won’t find anyone chasing you down the street because you didn’t leave a tenner on the salon chair. But even so, a little thank you after a brilliant cut or colour never goes unnoticed.
So, how much is enough? Is it expected? And what if you genuinely can’t afford to tip, but still want to show your appreciation? If you’ve ever sat in the salon chair wondering whether to hand over a few extra quid, you’re not alone.
Here’s the thing — hairdressers in Solihull aren’t working on tips the way waiting staff do. Most stylists earn a wage or commission, and tips are just a cherry on top. Still, it’s a lovely gesture when someone goes above and beyond, especially if they’ve stayed late for you, squeezed you in last-minute, or just nailed the look you were hoping for.
What most clients tend to tip
There’s no hard rule, but if you do want to tip, a fiver or rounding up the bill is common. If you’ve had a cut and blow-dry and it’s come to just under forty, you might give forty and call it even. Some clients prefer to hand over a little cash with a “thank you” at the end. Others leave nothing at all — and that’s okay too.
In most salons, tipping isn’t discussed or expected. No one’s glaring at the card machine waiting for you to hit a “gratuity” button. In fact, many clients are surprised to hear that their stylist was chuffed to receive even a pound or two extra.
What matters more is the experience. If you leave feeling fantastic and you tell your stylist how much you love your hair, that means the world. A great Solihull hairdresser doesn’t just want tips — they want you to come back.
When you don’t tip but still want to say thanks
Let’s be real — not everyone can afford to tip every time they go to the salon, especially with rising costs across the board. But that doesn’t mean you can’t show your appreciation in other ways.
First off, say something kind. It sounds obvious, but it makes a big difference. If your stylist has taken time to really listen, worked with tricky hair, or helped fix a colour that went wrong elsewhere, let them know. A genuine compliment goes further than you might think.
Leaving a review online is another brilliant way to show support. A five-star review on Google or a tag on social media helps your stylist build trust with new clients. Even just posting a picture of your new hair and tagging the salon can bring in more bookings. It’s a lovely way to say “thank you” without spending anything at all.
And of course, recommending your hairdresser in Solihull to friends or family is one of the best compliments you can give. A personal referral means more than any tip ever could.
Should you always tip your stylist?
Nope. Not at all. In fact, tipping every time isn’t the norm here. Some clients never tip. Some do it once a year. Some tip only after a big transformation or special event. It’s completely up to you.
What makes the biggest difference to your stylist is consistency. Coming back regularly, trusting them with your hair, and telling them what you love about your experience carries far more weight than handing over coins.
That said, if your stylist has squeezed you in before your holiday, stayed late to finish your colour, or pulled off a complete makeover that’s boosted your confidence, tipping is a lovely way to say “thanks for going the extra mile.”
Just know this: you’re never obliged to tip. If the service was good and you want to come back, that’s enough. Your stylist will remember your face, not your wallet.
For the best Solihull hairdresser, look no further than Salon No. 100! We’ve gathered hundreds of five-star reviews over the past few years. Call 07966 105306 and book your appointment today!
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