I'm often asked if and how much one should tip his or her stylist or if they should tip the owner. Let me clear the air.
Hair, skin, and body professionals rely on their tips as a source of their income. People tip anywhere from 15 to 20 percent of their service. (Not on tax or retail product). Still, a tip should depend on how satisfied you are. Certainly if you've been made to wait longer than 20 minutes, it would be acceptable for it to reflect in your tip. But if you don't mind the wait and love your results, tip accordingly. One thing I can I assure you is that beauty professionals notice and are appreciative of tips.
What about the owner?
Many hairstylists rent a chair making them their own business owner. You won't find a stylist who rents a chair who will refuse a tip. In contrast, major corporate chain owners whose income is from company sales more than from their haircut may not expect (or desire) a tip. Not tipping the owner is an old tradition. If your stylist is the owner simply ask the staff at the reception area what is generally done when you leave.
Often the owner charges more and in the mind of a client makes more money. I can assure you this is often not the case. The overhead, expense and pressure of owning a salon is relieved by the gracious gratuity of devoted clients. Though many salon owners will not be offended if you don't tip, they likely won't be offended if you do.
