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Ask Chuck: Is the price right or hard to figure out?

Paisley Humpert watches her mother, Kelly, shampoo client Keisha Smith's hair from her perch on Smith's lap. Smith went natural in 2009 and goes to the Split Enz salon for afro maintenance.
  • By Charles Colson
  • Originally published September 20, 2012 at midnight, updated September 20, 2012 at midnight

For years I have wanted to ask my hairdressers, why do my perms cost more in some places than others?

Excellent question and it is very true. Hair stylists charge for their services more so than products used. Some salons have a fixed rate for perms, of course depending if the hair is color treated or in a damaged state, etc. For example, a perm might cost $75 in one salon and advertised as $45 in another. Be careful as to which price includes the complete styling treatment. Where the perm is $45, usually it may not include the hair trim or conditioning or styling. Some charge extra for each service and by the time everything is added in, the price could easily exceed even $75. So take the $75 perm and subtract the hair trim and style that is always included, then you actually only paid about $35 for the perm itself.

Prices range differently because of years of experience the stylist may have. Also, extended education comes into play. Prices accelerate depending on the areas of service in our state. Some feel like if they go to Houston or Austin, the services might be much better than Victoria and surrounding counties. On the other hand, many have found that even if they paid more in larger cities, the hair services were not any better. The trick is to find that right hairdresser where the chemistry between the two of you is nothing less than perfect. Thank the Lord we have many types of hairdressers since we know we have many types of people with different personalities and needs. So, keeping it quite simple ... just find the one you feel most comfortable with and gives you the best service for your money. Like hairdressing services, wouldn't this comparison be wise in also choosing that perfect doctor we always search for. It has been said many times good hairdressers and doctors just can't die on us.

My hair is salt and pepper in color and stays drab looking all the time. I would like a different color but do not want one that requires touching up monthly. Is there hope for me finding such a miracle and still keeps my hair looking natural?

Yes, there certainly is. Many times we see that salt and pepper takes on a dull appearance and seems to lose its shine and body. A good solution for the above question is to have highlights added that will even make the salt and pepper color come alive. Many times when hair is only two shades, it is quite attractive to add one more shade that will balance out and blend with one another. Let's say the person, male or female, likes the way their hair looks after being in the sunlight all summer. By just adding a few gold highlights, like the sun caused, will automatically begin to blend perfect with gray hair and create an enormous amount of body ... and guess what? Keep the hair completely natural looking. This process usually only needs to be performed about two or three times a year. It always depends on the growth of the hair and the length you choose. So yes, no matter what age you may be, its a wise choice to make new changes. It actually gives you a boost of energy, also. Wow, how exciting, can you handle it?

Can you please tell me why doesn't my hairdresser understand the word trim. Why is this so hard to comprehend?

Smart question. It makes me think of one time when I took my poodle into the pet salon and was trying to explain how she looks more natural with just a light trim, rather than looking cremated. The owner said I put it perfect when I told her I would pay her more, if she just took less hair off. I followed through with my promise and my poodle began looking perfectly natural and of course she pranced around, realizing the difference. For your hair's sake, if you just want a small amount cut, try seeing if your hairdresser will consider cutting your hair dry. Many stylists don't realize how much hair stretches when in a wet form before trimming. Have you ever got your hair, supposedly trimmed, and when you got home and started doing it yourself, you couldn't believe how short the hair had become? Many times, even I have used the word trim because the word haircut is quite scary. I have also joked that many hairdressers might just be cutting themselves out of the next haircut. So if we promise to take less off, will you pay extra? Now I know this brings a laugh and a questionable smile.

Charles Colson is a local hair stylist and registered massage therapist. You may email hair or massage questions to crcolsonrmt1@sbcglobal.net or call 361-575-5331.