Kikka emailed in the following tip:
We have found that if I cut my husband’s hair and he colors my hair, we are saving a minimum of $840 a year.
To get started you can watch free how-to videos on YouTube.com, look for a sale at your local beauty supply store (like Sally’s) to purchase what you need, do your research, and then give it a try! Just remember that practice makes perfect, or close to it. Also, the good thing about hair is that it does grow back! 🙂 -Kikka
I do think this is a good post. It’s not telling everyone to just stop having their hair professionally done! Many people just don’t have the resources to have their hair cut or colored professionally, so their options are limited. Even with Groupons & coupons, plenty of people still can’t afford to get their hair done professionally. Not everyone has a beauty school nearby. Not everyone can afford the beauty school prices anyway. And they are schools, these are students, and they make mistakes as well. It’s nice to have encouragement that doing it yourself is not impossible.
I’ve been coloring my own hair for 20 years (since I was 18). The stylist I used to frequent for cuts when I worked outside the home said she would never recommend that my mother or I pay for professional color because we both did such quality color. And we both still have very healthy hair! I’ve also been cutting mine for about 6 years (since I had the worst haircut of my life from a student who was only a couple of weeks away from graduating – she really needed some better training, bless her heart). I do not use regular scissors, I did purchase cutting shears and thinning shears. I usually wear a short style that requires fairly frequent trims. I have thick, straight, lifeless hair and have learned how to cut it so that it appears to have lots of body with very little daily effort. The work is put into cutting it correctly.
I know stylists are trained professionals and I respect that. But that doesn’t mean that I can’t learn how to make my hair look professionally done at home. They’re trained professionals because they studied and trained and practiced. I can make my hair look professionally done because I’ve studied and trained and practiced – on MY hair. I can’t make everybody else’s hair look professionally done because I’ve not studied or trained or practiced for their hair and I don’t want to. I don’t want to have to go through the training to learn ALL the hair types and textures and problems and issues… It’s good that there are people who do want to train to do this, because there will always be people who can’t/won’t/don’t do their own hair. If you’re not comfortable doing it, and you can afford to have someone else do it, I say go for it! I have considered going back to a stylist for my cuts, because it is nice to sit down and let someone else do all the work. But please don’t try to tell me that with 20 years experience coloring mine and 6 years experience cutting mine, I can’t possibly make my hair look professionally done. 🙂
I think it’s important to remember that going to a professional hairstylist is, for many of us, a luxury that we can’t afford, not a necessity. Even with coupons, Groupon deals, etc., I couldn’t even consider spending money at a salon because we just don’t have any wiggle room in our budget.
I cut my hubby’s hair, my son’s hair, my own hair, and my two daughters’ hair. My hubby’s and son’s haircuts are easy because they like a buzz cut, and I just trim my daughters’ and my own hair occasionally–nothing fancy, but it looks fine. I don’t color my hair; it’s blonde, so the occasional gray strands that I find don’t show very much.
I think maybe it’s important for everyone commenting here to remember that everyone has different circumstances and priorities. I cut my husband and sons hair and only get mine cut twice a year by my SIL who is a hairdresser. She’s feeling this economy for sure and has to work at getting more clients. Personally we just don’t have the time for someone else to do it, even though she’d love to (and she’s very good). We’re ALL in tight spots these days and each person’s first priority is going to be their own family/livelihood, whether they are a consumer or a stylist/plumber/roofer. I agree that this is one area among many where we can make the choice to DIY and live with the benefits or consequences. We choose to support other types of local businesses but we are a pretty raggity-looking bunch! We don’t put our hair, clothes or other facets of our appearance very high, but that’s a choice we can make while others for various reasons must place a higher priority on these things and choose to pay for the wonderful services and results a professional often supplies, or if they can’t pay, choose to try the DIY path. I hope that someday, my husband will be able to get haircuts, highlights and clothes like he wore in college (and looked smoking hot in!) but for now, we make do. We’ve all been there (in either position) so please, let’s remember to assume the best and be kind!
My husband has been cutting his own hair for almost four years (since a few months before we got married). He paid like $20 for a clipper set, and he does a great job if I might say so myself!
I have a friend from church who recently finished cosmetology school (I guess it’s been over a year now) and she does my hair in a salon for just $10. If I don’t absolutely have to trust my hair to Ben, I’ll leave it to a professional. 😉
Love the pic!
I too, am considering disliking the blog based on this post. It is a discredit to professional stylists, and I find some of the comments offensive. I understand having your hair professionally done may not be a top priority for everyone. But rather than just offering tips on how to DIY (which certainly can turn into an expensive, and possibly extremely damaging experience), why not offer ways to save at your salon. If you are interested in getting some professional advice, it seems like you have plenty of resources that have commented on this post.
Oh, come on. I interviewed Sally’s top colorist, who formulated their in-house brand that they sell to both salons and home users, and she told me that it is quite safe to color your own hair as long as you follow certain guidelines. I discussed it with my colorist afterwards and she agreed.
Saying that it’s possible to color your hair at home is not discrediting professional stylists any more than sharing information on how to fix your own toilet is discrediting professional plumbers. There are plenty of good reasons to bring in a pro for both, but that doesn’t mean there’s something sinful or insulting about doing it yourself.
I have used products and tools from Sally’s, as well as from professional beauty supplies (that you must be licensed to shop at), there are things from Sally’s I will recommend to my clients, but for the most part I prefer professional beauty care.
I agree, it certainly is possible to color your hair yourself, that fact, I do not find discrediting. I have indeed colored and cut my hair myself, but again, I prefer having it done by another professional. Besides, that is not what really bothers me. It is the comments generalizing stylists as incapable of offering valuable services. This, coupled with the fact that this post offers no insight on how to save money and boost the economy by visiting the salon, barber shop, etc., leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
Who said that stylists are “incapable of offering valuable services”? I don’t see anyone saying that in this discussion. I think it’s important to remember that going to a professional hairstylist is, for many of us, a luxury that we can’t afford, not a necessity. Even with coupons, Groupon deals, etc., I couldn’t even consider spending money at a salon because we just don’t have any wiggle room in our budget. It’s not discrediting hairstylists to say that.
I noted that I feel offended by many of the comments that make statements about paying money to stylists for a job they can do just as well themselves. I am sorry for the people who have had bad salon experiences, it happens, but I work very hard to give worthwhile services and support my family of 5. At this point, I wish I hadn’t shared my feelings at all, I am tired of defending them. I have clients that do their own color, or do DIY clean ups in between appointments. I understand that it is what works for them, and I appreciate that they spend their hard earned money with me, and put their trust in me. I do not feel discredited by DIY hairstyling. I feel offended by peoples that something that is a part of my vitality
Ugh, accidentally hit “submit”, but hopefully you get the picture.
We have five sons and a daughter. When we had our second son, I learned to cut hair. My mom did it for us before that. I’ve been cutting my husbands hair and all of our sons hair for the last 22 years or so! The money we’ve saved! AND I’m still using my first set of Wahl clippers!
All this goes to is an add on utube not a how to do your hair.
I cut all of my boys’ hair! The first time my husband took my 2 older boys, it cost $45 for the three of them. Now it would be $60 if you added my 3rd son. So for the one time cost of nice clippers, I do all 4 every month. I have no idea what I save by dying my own hair…
As a avid coupon user and a Professional Hair Color Specialist I am appalled by this post!!! In this case you get what you pay for and let me tell you that it will cost you 2-3 times as much to get color correction after your hubby messes up your color than it would have if you would have come to me first!! And let me tell you those are not hair cutting shears in that picture! Money Saving Mom you should be ashamed of yourself for not at least posting a decent picture of what you are pimping!! I will be disliking your blog on Facebook and will also let all my friends who I have raved about you to dislike you as well!
I’m sorry that you feel that way, but I am sure that this post is well intended. I do agree that professionals give much better cuts and colors. Some of us just can’t afford it.
Really? I’ve used at-home color MANY times before and never had any issue with it. I’ve never had to go to someone else to get it corrected. When the choice is feeding my child and getting my hair professionally done, I’m going to chose feeding my child. I’m sorry if you feel that makes me a bad person.
I think she knows those aren’t hair cutting shears……she even posted up above that she just thought it was a funny picture.
It’s too bad you’re going to disconnect yourself from MSM – if you’re an avid coupon user, you’ll be doing yourself a big disservice.
As others have stated on this post, some people truly can’t afford salon services – and if you are in the position of having to choose between food on the table or a professional hair cut, then this could be a very helpful post.
I don’t think she was discounting salon services in the least – in fact, if I remember right, she gets her highlights done at a salon! But her job on this blog is to help people save money, and if you are in a tough spot, this is yet one more way to survive those financially difficult times.
Wow, isn’t it a bit of an overreaction to dislike and badmouth Money Saving Mom just because you disagree with one post?
I’ve been cutting my husband’s hair ever since we moved in together. I also cut my kids hair- buzz cut for my oldest and I bought a Flo-bee at a yard sale for my second son. Saves a ton of money! I go probably every 3 months for my hair cut and only pay about $20 and then dye my hair at home. Saves BIG money!
I think it depends on the head of hair. I cut my husband and brothers but hair like my dads…. I think is best left to the barber!!
This is one thing that I personally wouldn’t consider for my family. I like getting my hair colored at a salon,but I do it about 3 times a year. And instead of the salons that charge over $100 because they take you and shampoo forever before, I found a salon in a small town that charges 1/2 or less. It might not be a fancy place, but I feel good after and it is the one indulgence I have.
They shouldn’t be shampooing before. I’ve never seen that.
I love doing this. I started cutting my husbands hair a few years ago, now I cut my little boys hair too! We have saved a lot of money by doing this.
This is definitely one of those areas that is not a necessity and is definitely a luxury. You wouldn’t pack up supplies to send to a family in a 3rd world country that included food rations, water, blankets, and directions to a salon, would you? It’s a luxury. So is Netflix, so is buying music, etc. etc. What is important to one person will be different from the next and no one should be offended if they cut (pun intended!) this one out. For us, my hubby cuts his own hair (buzzed and it looks the best it ever has this way), he cuts our son’s and I cut our 2 daughters. My hair is long and I get it cut by a professional once a year or so (my last one was free at a training event), and trim it myself in between and I don’t go anywhere near hair dye. I’m so thankful we’ve been able to cut expenses in a least this one area since I am a stay-at-home mom. But there are certainly other “luxuries” we do partake in. ;o)
I cut my daughter’s hair when she was younger and it NEVER turned out ok. One expense that we find worth it is a good haircut and we have, after years, found someone who has always given us all a great cut. I have to admit, it costs, but it is definitely worth it. We save elsewhere.
This woman is super brave! It’s hard enough to find a good stylist who IS trained. I would never trust an untrained person with my hair. If I were just doing a one-process color, I could easily do it at home, but I’d never trust my highlights to anyone except my stylist. Hooray for good stylists!
I sort of do this-I grow my hair pretty long, then get a really good haircut short every couple of years. If you get a really good cut, it will last a lot longer. I make it last with bang trims (learned to NEVER do this myself!)
I need a professional for my hair, because I like the pro results…but the salon is expensive. I’ve found several stylists that do hair at their home on days off from the salon. Obviously, you need to NOT make these arrangements at the salon. By doing things this way, I get a great cut/color/style for cheaper than the salon and the stylist actually makes more money than if I would have come into the shop.
I cut my husband’s and my son’s hair at my husband’s request…i use nice & easy (with coupons, i pay avg of $3 to color my hair every 2 months.) my daughter and i go to a local stylist for our hair cuts. i am saving a minimum of $20-25 per cut for myself since i switched to the new salon. my daughter’s gets cut every few months…but now we are on the “locks of love” plan. :>) i am very committed to saving in every way possible…but i am VERY protective of my hair cuts!!! LOL
I cut my husband’s hair and have been doing so since before we got married. I paid about $25 for the clipper set and saved that much money in less than 2 haircuts! I was scared at first, but my {then} roommate helped me the first time. it’s not hard and I feel like an old pro now!
I get my hair cut two times a year. Where we live now, I have a lady from church cut it. I give her $20 for a cut. I’d be wayyyy to scared to cut my own – and there NO way my husband would even consider it! 😉 I will probably cut our kids’ hair, once we have kids, though.
I don’t cut my hair so I couldn’t begin to tell you the savings. 😀 But I do know my husband and 16 year old son are very picky. I would NEVER attempt to cut their hair. But I do trim around neck and ears so they’ll last a little longer between cuts and even then they fuss LOL
My husband cut my hair for the first time a few months ago. It worked out great. He also cuts his own hair. Someday, would I like to go back to the salon? Yes probably. Not because it dosn’t look good, but because I enjoy the treat. However, when times are really tough (like they are now for us), it is wonderful to know we can take care of ourselves. It made me feel so much better to have a hair cut, and it made my husband happy since he was able to help.
We do this too. I cut my own and all family members (clippers on the men, scissors on the ladies). I also highlight/color my own.
btw, I have natural curly hair which I can wear very sleek using a straightening iron. My cut is layered and I have worn it similar to Lisa Rinna’s hair. Curly hair is very forgiving so you experiment more with cuts other than just a basic trim.
I’d love to hear your advice, because my brother has curly hair and I’ve had difficulty trying to tame it. He refuses to go to a professional, so I do the best I can, but it’s certainly not great.
I have been cutting my husband’s hair & my twin sons hair for yrs (at least 12). I bought a conair clipper that also had scissors & a how to dvd. Now my husband won’t get it done anywhere else. We have saved a bundle.
I have been cutting my husband’s and my son’s hair for about a year now. We call it the Dave Ramsey. (Or in my son’s case the Buzz Lightyear)
A couple of years ago I started cutting my own hair, my husband’s, my dad’s, and our two boys. I have no idea how much we are saving, but my husband and one son could do with a haircut monthly. Even if #3 is a girl, I’ll still be doing all of the haircutting. I don’t color my hair ever so I’m not sure if my husband would be willing to do it for me.
I save $200-$400 per year by cutting our DOG’s hair 😉
I do this too! I hate bathing them, but I don’t mind cutting them. I’ve got a few pairs of clippers from when I used to do hair, and now one of them is strictly for dogs. The best part is, they don’t mind when I do it! They freak out at the groomer though. So I’m saving money and saving them the trauma. 🙂
If you have boys buy a Flowbee! I know that sounds like a joke but I’m telling you… it is awesome! We have saved so much money and headaches by using it on our boys (now 6 and 4). They used to cry at the barber shop… toys don’t work, candy get’s hair on it… We bought one 4 years ago and they have loved it ever since, they even fight to go first. Check their website out: http://www.flowbee.com/
My husband does the hair cutting in our family. He cuts all of the girls hair (they have long straight hair) and gives our son a cut with clippers. He buzzes his own. I go get my hair cut at one of those walk in places and usually use a coupon. I used to color my hair, but it was doing so much damage that I decided to let my color go natural. Afterall, that is the way God made me, gray and all.
I personally feel that $9 for a cut every two months is worth it. I deserve that time away from everyone, I deserve to feel confident in my appearance. Our grocery store receipts have coupons for local businesses on the back, and I always use one of those when I go. My hair is worn long, and it’s curly, so it doesn’t need a trim that often. For all I do around the house–5 hours of sleep, and for working full-time while pursuing a Master’s degree full-time–I deserve a hair cut!!
I don’t blame you!! It’s good that you can do that for yourself. Go you!
LOL, thank you! It’s the little things, right? I’m diabetic so no candies or sweets for me. Do my own nails, thrift stores are my clothing arenas…if all I want is a haircut, I’m going to get one! haha–but I do understand how families with many children have to make it work. We chose to only have one; our decision is really paying off and allowing us to give all three of us a healthy, balanced and rich life. NOT just money wise 🙂
We’ve been blessed with three children and have a rich life as well–not financially but in other ways. 🙂
If I could find a stylist at that price that did a good job on my hair, I’d do it in a heartbeat. My problem is that I usually have to fix it after I get home. It’s rather disheartening. I am willing to find someone who does a great job at a great price for me!!
I had my hair colored twice when I first started to get gray hairs and I could not stomach that expense anymore. I have simple straight hair and while I get it cut professionally I have thought many times about learning to do it myself. But I absolutely started experimenting with dying my hair myself and then stock up on my favorite at home color kits when they are on sale and I can get a coupon. I am absolutely going to U tube how to cut the kids hair though. Great idea.
My dad used to attempt to cut mine and my sisters hair when we were little. I remember going to school a lot with bad hair cuts :/ But I would like to learn how to cut my boyfriends hair. Since he always complains about going to the hair dresser. I’m just not sure about cutting mens hair that is wavy- curly.
You can check your library for books and check youtube for vids. Good luck!
My brother’s hair is curly too – make sure you do LOTS of research. Wait, let me say it again, LOTS and LOTS of research before cutting curly hair. Talk to other people with curly hair, too. It’s very different cutting curly hair v straight hair. Good luck@ I’m sure you’ll do great!
I started out purchasing a pair of clippers to cut my brother’s hair. I was sick of paying for his hair cuts and the clippers cost as much as one cut. Back in those days, my husband (then boyfriend) was totally into his hair and spent a lot to maintain it. Eventually, he became so busy that he didn’t have time to schedule a hair cut at the salon and asked me to just buzz it down. I did so with a trembling hand and he actually liked it. He never went back to the salon and I’ve been cutting it for about 12 years and can do scissor cuts and work the clippers. He gets a lot of compliments and actually has people ask who cuts it and then respond with, “I didn’t know your wife was a hair dresser.” lol. I now have two sons and cut their hair, too. As for me, I do long layers and just get quarterly cuts. I color my own hair and have been able to get hair dye for free with coupons and deals. I do purchase my shears from Sally’s Beauty Supply. I can’t imagine how much I’ve saved over the years. I’ve even learned to wax my own eyebrows.
Awesome!! My hubby gets the same kinds of comments.
I read this a year or two ago on a frugal blog (forget which one) and I’ve been cutting my hair this way ever since. I constantly get compliments on my hair, even from strangers! I’ve told LOTS of people how to do this & a bunch have started doing it, too. None of us look like we have the same haircut. I have thick long straight hair, but others who’ve done it have long curly hair.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xF6quAXI0gM
Thanks for the video link!!
Please don’t use those kind of scissors if you are even thinking about cutting your own hair. Invest in some good quality hair trimming scissors!
I use Wahl clippers for my hubby and son and the hair-trimming scissors that came with the clippers for myself and my daughters.
I am in total agreement with the hair coloring advice. I’ve been coloring my hair for years (I do a color and a highlight) without any problems. Coloring my own hair not only saves me the coloring costs but it allows me to go a little longer between hair cuts. As far as cutting my own hair I would never do that because I’m very particular about my hair and I would do an awful job. I actually get a ton of compliments on the color of my hair, when I share my secret they can’t believe I do it myself. I’ve actually talked a couple of women at work into coloring their own hair too 🙂
I feel the same way. There is no way I could cut my own hair and it look good. I’ve started coloring it though and that really saves money but I”m not gonna lie, I miss the “salon” look. However, I don’t miss the money sitting my bank account! Plus practice makes perfect. Right?
I agree. I’ve been coloring my hair myself for many, many years. I do got it cut by a pro, though. I get a lot of compliments on my hair – the color looks like highlights, even though I don’t do highlights. THAT I would be terrible at. I think it might be that the gray takes the color in one shade and the brown takes it in another color.
If I didn’t color my hair, it would be mousy brown and battleship gray. Yuck. I’m in my 50s. I’ll probably do what my sister did and color until I’m in my 60s when it is all gray/white. She looks great with her natural hair color, or lack there of.
I go to the local cheap hairdresser for a wash and cut about 3-4 times/year. For $15, it’s a little luxury for me.
Haven’t really decided yet how I’ll be dealing with my kid’s hair. My daughter has only gotten a “professional” haircut 2 or 3 times (she’s 3 years old)… my son will probably go to the barber with my husband, once he has enough hair to need it.
I agree with Sherri. My husband and I own and Heating, cooling, and plumbing services company. With all the new DIYers out there its killing us. It is also showing to hurt them too. They do it wrong or ruin something else in the process and then they eventually call us and its way more work and way more money had they had a professional do it from the start!
I will say, that I no longer get highlights to cut costs and try to get my hair cut every 3 months instead of every other month
Coming from a hairdresser, it is ALWAYS obvious when people “try” to do their own hair… There I said it. (and If you ever get compliments it is probably by someone else that does their own hair;)
Probably some of the cuts you think are home cuts are actually done by other stylists. Some of my worst cuts were from people who ALWAYS know what’s best for my hair. Put the razor down!!
I’ve also fixed friends’ hair when they came home with an awful cut. Think bowl.
You might want to think twice in your judgment.
Yeah I can’t say that I could cut my own hair and have it look nice (I’ve tried :D), but I have gotten some awful cuts from professionals, even at reputable local salons.
If it didn’t look halfway decent, I wouldn’t do it either. But since my worst self-cut was better than the worst professional job I’ve received, I’m okay with it. 😉
I have to agree, I have had horrible, awful stylist jobs (of course, not all of them have been) and at least cutting it myself if it looks horrible I didn’t throw away $50!
That’s my thought too. If I screw up, I can’t blame anyone but myself and it was free except for the time.
I think it depends on the training. My stylist told me that here in NC they teach very little in beauty school. When she was a student in beauty school, she said other students were coming to her asking how she did her highlighting because so much was not taught in school. She told me after beauty school, you are not ready to be a stylist. You need to apprentince for at least 1 year under a professional who will check behind you and continue to train you. So many people don’t want to do that though and I think that’s where the “bad stylists”come in. Even if they’ve been doing hair for years, they never got the proper training from the beginning.
It’s too bad they don’t get the correct training.
PLEASE…yes I said please,for the love of hair STOP NOW RUN BACK TO THE BEAUTY SUPPLY & GET THE RIGHT ..TOOLS.Please put down what ever that green,cracked this is !!!Save that for coupons again I said please. ( : ( : ( : thank you.
Nancy you just cracked me up…I had to go back and look at the PIC again. But I do agree with the original post, we are one of those families that has been force to cut back everywhere and anywhere in order to put food on the table. I love post like this that shows what other people are doing to save.
I have been cutting my husband’s hair for a few years now, and it really works well for us! I wrote a how-to article on my blog about cutting his hair, and my daughter’s bangs. My mom has always cut my hair for me. I’m only 30, so no coloring for me yet, but maybe someday! On the other hand, I’ve heard that “Gray hair is a crown of splendor” (Proverbs 16:31) so maybe I’ll just keep my gray hair to show off!
I understand that hair-cutters need jobs, and some people really like a professional hair cut/coloring, but for us those things have always been a luxury. We enjoy the satisfaction of learning to do something ourselves rather than paying someone else to do it for us. We’ll do whatever we can to spend less than we make. 🙂
My friend and I color each others hair. I just went to the beauty supply store and followed the directions on the box. It is so simple and it is the same stuff you pay high dollar for in a salon.
Some people have to pay to have their haircut due to texture or thickness maybe could try to go longer every 6 weeks instead of 5.
I have cut my husband’s hair for 10 years now, and have always cut my sons’ hair (ages 10 and 2.5). I can’t imagine spending the money to get there hair cut every six weeks. But, I also hate the time involved in adding one more errand to the schedule.
I also have trimmed my own hair for 10 years now also. As my hair is always at least several inches past my shoulders, I just pull it around and cut off about the same amount. At the end, my husband takes a look at it across the back to see if anything is a bit long (I tend to not cut the back enough), but that’s it. And it always looks fine.
I have cut my husbands’ hair since we first got married 33 years ago. He won’t let anyone else cut his hair because they don’t do it right–his words. In response to some saying to use a beauty school for cheaper haircuts, the worst haircut my daughter ever got was at a beauty school. I had to cut it at home to fix it. I would never go there again! I have my hair cut professionally every 6 weeks but I never understood the mentality that women cannot have gray hair! I do not plan to ever color my hair! Yes I do have some gray hair, I am 51.
I used to say that about gray hair too, until I started to go gray in my early 30s. Really, it started in my 20’s, but it wasn’t too noticeable until I hit 30. Then all my fine principles seemed a little silly. I also have had all 4 of my kids in my 30’s – it’s hard to be gray in the hospital pics as you’re holding a newborn. So maybe it’s vain, but I color my hair now. I feel a lot better about myself if I don’t look 20 years old than I should – sad perhaps, but true. And I’m not normally a high-maintenance girl, either: rarely wear make-up, dress simply, no mani-pedis, etc.
I do plan on stopping coloring around 50, though I reserve the right to change my mind!
My hair starting going white when I was 18- I have been coloring for half my life. I feel better without the roots too. Last time I stopped coloring was before #2 was born (the hair color smell like everything else was making me ill) and I had several inches of grey/white in the newborn pictures. As soon as I was up to my husband made sure I had time to have the color done- he prefers my “distinguished silver” color but he knows I prefer the color I had as a teenager.
Being 51 with some gray hair is one thing… my poor little sister (who is 18!) has already started getting just a few gray hairs. My mother had a huge streak of gray hair by the time she was in her late 20’s. So far, I have thankfully seemed to miss the early gray hair gene, but if I was in their shoes, you can bet I’d be dying my hair, and I wouldn’t feel the least bit guilty
I started getting gray hairs when I was 15. I feel your sister’s pain, lol. I cried, pulled them out, and cried some more. Ten years later and I pretty much let them be. It seems like worrying about them just makes more show up, lol.
Probably depends on the hair. My hair is long and grows pretty evenly, so I’m good with a few haircuts a year (totally worth the cost not to feel ugly for months until it grows out!). I do color it myself. I got dye for .75 with coupons, and I can’t tell the difference from when I had it professionally dyed. I’ve done it enough times to feel comfortable with the process. I like to put it up in a hair clip after the dye is all in, then wipe my neck, forehead, part line, and ears, so I don’t get dye marks. Some people use Vaseline, but I’m too greasy for that. I’d never try to do my own highlights, though.
I cut my own hair most of the time. I started 7 years ago when I moved and kept getting terrible haircuts from stylists. I was “spoiled” by my cousin who was a Vidal Sassoon teacher and stylist. I finally just started cutting my own. I had a woman say, “I cut hair for 20 years and I would have thought that was a professional cut.”
I cut my hubby’s hair too. I used to fix his hair when he’d come home from the barber so it just made sense that I just cut it myself.
I sometimes ask for a “good” haircut for a present. The guy I prefer to see costs $85 and is worth EVERY penny. That happens maybe once a year or less. Right now is one of those times I wish I had a stylist that was reasonably priced that I trusted with my hair. Ah well.
I always cut my husband and sons hair! My hubby has even put highlights in mine. He is really good at it. This has saved us tons of money especially with boys who need hair cuts once a month!
When I broke my ankle, I had my husband paint my toenails. The end result of that assures me that I would NEVER, ever let my husband color my hair! 🙂
Too funny!
Thankfully we hve only Boys, makes it alot easier to take them to the Barber, they usually get their Hair cut every 6 weeks, and yes they do get a Millitary Haircut lol, no hair on the sides and a little on the Top, we used that we took them every 2 weeks and let the hair be a little longer, just by adjusting the length we were able to stretch it out a little bit longer. Neither of my Boys lets me cut their Hair.
My mom would cut her’s and her roomies’ hair in college and then when i came along she would cut my hair and so i learnt how to cut and style hair from her….she isnt a trained pro or anything…
When i got married…. my husband was still in school and even though i had a job, it was hard to shell out 13$ for a haircut for him and then 20$ for myself!! so i got a clippers set for him and i started cutting my own hair at home with some help from him to cut the back of my hair and its been 5 years now and we havent been to a single hair dresser!! and everyone LOVES my hair and wants me to cut theirs!!
i love saving money!!
I have been cutting my hubby’s and all 4 of my boys hair since they were toddlers….(not the hubby!) Even my 24 yr old still comes home for Mom to cut his hair… Now I think I should charge, cause I am cutting hair every 2 weeks… I do cut my bangs and sometimes the whole thing… I have short layered hair and cannot afford to get my hair cut every 4 to 6 weeks… If I had a job, that would be different and I would go every 6 weeks… And I do barter with my hairdresser…she is great and gives me advice on how to do my hair color better…. I cannot pay for that either… sorry to the hairdressers, but when there is no extra $$… I cannot pay to get my hair colored… when I can get haircolor for almost free at CVS and WAGS with coupons and RR’s etc….
This is a great idea! More families should consider this. I have been cutting both my huband and son’s hair for a while now. We save a ton. By a set of clippers and get comfortable with them. It is very easy!
Thankfully my husband cuts his own hair. I used to do it but I never felt like I did a good enough job. He also does 3 of our 4 sons. He only does one style and I am not ready for the youngest boy to have that style yet. He gets his hair cut about once or twice a year and I can trim it between. I don’t get my hair cut/done except one every several years. Haven’t decided what to do when the gray comes :/ We have a little girl now so I will be honing my hair cutting and styling skills 🙂
As a hair stylist, this message is kind of insulting. i worked very hard to get through cosmetology school, my tuition was far more than $840 for the year of my life it took to learn safety and sanitation standards, and basic cosmetology skills.
I am fortunate to have a very diverse clientele, who value my work. Some don’t bat an eyelash when it’s time to settle the bill, but I know others are on a budget, and I work hard to create something for them that is low maintenance and within their means. I also go through a barter company so that people who might not otherwise spend money on hair services, can through the barter system. There are also people that I out right trade services with. So, before you consider taking your hair into your own hands, look for other options that would benefit you, as well as others.
I have always cut my husbands hair and all 3 of my boys. I go 2 times a year to get a basic cut at the local salon. I don’t color my hair. I had to choose between being a stay at home homeschooling mom and having everything I thought I wanted in life. I chose the first, some things are more important (to me) than hair and looking so-so!
I agree!
We see this in the same “sacrifice” category as driving our really old cars., plus many other choices. 🙂
Reminds me of a great book I just read by Jill Savage: “Living On Less So Your Family Has More.” That’s us—and so many of you all here!!
I don’t think you should find this post insulting, Going to a hair stylist isn’t a necessity.
I hope I’m not offending you but I see hair stylists just as I see lawn care people. It’s nice to have, but it’s something you can do yourself. I’m sure you or one of your family members cuts your grass? This is the same thing, your saving money by not having a ‘lawn care service’ cut it for you, sure lawn care people probably don’t go to school/have a tuition, but they still invest a lot in their tools, transportation and some have brick and mortar shops.
To be honest I don’t cut my own hair, I go to a local barber about 2-3 times a year (my hair gets pretty long). I’m sure they’d like me to come in more often (more $ for them), but i usually tip them an extra $2-$3…
Except that hairdressers are licensed professionals! Seriously! Its $ 11,000 for cosmetology school, plus exam and licensing fees, as well as tools. I wish people would have a little more respect for hairdressers. It is treated as though it is somehow less than other professions.
I will agree there are hairdressers who stink, but a good hairdresser knows hair, its structure, and how to repair it as well as make it beautiful. Yes it grows out, but it takes a while. Please consider the health of your hair as well, these are chemicals. They need to be applied properly. Those who say they have been coloring their hair at home and it looks like they have highlights, that may look nice but thats not healthy! Those pieces are being overprocessed and thats why they look that way. They are weak and damaged. Be careful!
I completely understand wanting to save money but please don’t discredit the value of a good hairdresser. Having highlights, or color is a luxury. Consider a beauty school as an alternative. Go in for a shampoo and blowdry if your nervous. Look around, ask the instructor, tell them your nervous about color and have them recommend a student. They may not all be accomadating but our schools here are. Schedule with that stylist. They have a licensed professional watching for their mistakes. When it comes to color just be careful. Remember not everyone on the youtube video’s actually know what they are talking about. You don’t always know their credentials.
You can also tell your hairdresser that you cannot come in as often. Your budget should play a large role in the services and maintenance plan you recieve. There are options for color, cuts, and other processes that can help you stretch out your time between visits. I have a client who likes big curls but has pin straight hair.Shes on a tight budget as well. I perm it 2 times a year! Its all in the wrapping! Find a hairdresser willing to work with you. If they only care about upselling then find a new one!
Please remember you could be liable if you make a mistake when coloring another persons hair. Its illegal for cosmetology students to use chemicals without supervision so I would think that would be the same for those who are not students since they are not licensed. So if your gonna do it, do it to yourself only. 🙂
I can totally appreciate a good hairstylist. That is why I pay so much to get my hair done (highlights $95 and cut $55), but wow, I haven’t heard of any one getting a perm, other than little old ladies) in 15 years. 🙂
I knew someone was going to comment on the perm! 🙂 You would be suprised who has a perm. I know I used to picture the tight “tilly” perms… but no, many people even get them just to add volume to their hair. There are some great versatile perming products out there… A lot of younger people like the big waves and will do that, if you wrap it up off the head it grows out looking natural and really pretty! A hairstylist that also continues education and is able to provide other options and techniques is also a great thing to have. But thats just like any profession, things change all the time… 🙂
We have someone take care of the yard.
It’s great that you can afford that; not everyone can. For many of us, both paying someone to take care of the yard and paying someone to cut our hair would be luxuries, not necessities.
Thank you, I realize everyone’s priorities are different. We are fortunate to have some of the luxuries that we do. It is tough to get our family of 5 all together to enjoy each others company. It is little things, like the convenience of having someone come out every so often to cut the grass, that we haven’t always been able to do and can appreciate now.
As a salon owner in a hurting economy, I have to say that this is one of my least favorite posts. I understand that saving money must be top priority for some families and necessary for their financial security. I cut costs wherever I can, but when I do spend money, I try to remember the importance of spending locally. Sometimes being a loyal customer earns you discounts too (like with your stylist 😉 ), helps the economy, and supports local small business owners. Just a few thoughts for when there is extra wiggle room in the budget.
Well stated! I work in a small family owned accounting business and I see so many people trying to save money by trying to do their own taxes. That is fine for some, but alot of those clients end up coming back to us because they realize they might actually save money (or avoid audit) by paying to use a professional.
I understand that some businesses are struggling, but it’s helpful for me to get tips like this that will help my family’s personal economy. Fortunately, hair cuts and beauty treatments are more discretionary than services like medical care, so budget “cuts” in this area aren’t so bad. It’s great for people to support local businesses (like yours) when they can, but I have to take care of basics and necessities for my family first, and put my family’s economy as a priority over the economy overall. Hopefully the situation will soon improve!
I cut my hair, my husband’s hair, and both of our kids. Doing this is just one of the many things that allows me to stay home with my kids. I agree with you on suporting local businesses though. I would much rather give what little money we do send to a small, local business than a corporate giant any day. More people need to teach their kids the importance of buying and spending locally. Hope your business gets better soon…I know there are still plently of people out there that wouldn’t dare cut their own hair. My husband is a self-employed mechanic, so I know what this economy is doing to small businesses.
As a hairstylist, I completely agree! Not to be a snob, but I can always spot a do-it-yourself haircut. And more than likely, you are going to be coming to me to FIX that at-home cut or (yikes!) box color. I see clients stretching out appointments from 6 weeks to 8, or having me color their hair back to it’s natural shade to avoid expensive hilights. I completely understand, due to the economy. It just means I work harder to bring in new clients to make up the difference in MY pocketbook. One thing I have struggled with lately is whether or not to raise my prices in the salon. On the one hand, my costs are up to do business, so either I eat that or I have the client pay for it ( which is no different than everything else going up for the consumer lately). On the other hand I think, “why should I get a raise when no one else is right now?”…..tough decision.
I do get my hair cut and colored professionally. There is no way I could do the job that a professional does in this area, nor learn how to cut hair from a youtube video.
I love to get my hair done. I now have to my hair colored/highlighted and cut at least every 6-7 weeks. I think there is no justification as to the prices that are being charged at some salons. I have been through Medical Assisting and paid tuition on that. I don’t make what some stylists do. I have years of working experience. I believe that there should be a guideline set. I understand that there is booth rental charges, supplies. but , come on $100-$120 for cut and a few highlights? Can someone explain what justifys that? I respect the people who are good stylists but I think the pricing has gotten out of control. Some are trying to make the big bucks fast!
I no longer work in the salon industry, but when I did, I learned how little of that high price is going to your stylist. (This does not apply to booth rental style salons, but I’ve rarely seen a booth rental place charge that much.) Depending on how new/experienced he or she is, there is probably a sliding scale for what percentage the stylist gets. When I worked at a great salon. I got 40% of the cost, minus a product charge to pay for shampoo, color, etc. After taxes, and buying my own styling products, that didn’t add up to much. So where does the bulk of the money go? Rent for the salon itself. Better locations = more business, but also equal higher rent. Rent, buying enough product for chemical treatments, electricity bills to keep it cool with all those blow dryers running, paying receptionists and assistants… it all adds up. There are a lot of costs involved. If you think you are still paying too much, ask if they have an apprentice program, and get it done cheaper, maybe even free, while still supporting your local salon.
I agree with going to a pro. You can always spot home hair color a mile away!
I am not a professional hair dresser but I can tell when someone cuts their own hair or their families hair. Yes, it is a way to save money but my husband needs to look professional and we budget for it. I have tried the cheaper route on my hair by letting friends cut it cheaply and it ended up worse and not manageable. I am all about saving money but saving time fixing my hair is worth every penny in the salon.
I live outside of an expensive city, and that’s what I pay. I’ve gone to salons that charge $50 for a haircut that absolutely stinks. The SUPERCUTS here charges almost $20 for a woman’s haircut. I pay $100 for a haircut and highlights every 8 weeks; I have very difficult hair that is naturally a color often referred to as “dishwater brown” (yuck). I love my stylist Kelly, and I think that she’s absolutely worth it. I save money in other ways, hence reading this blog, but I don’t scrimp on my appearance.
Sherri, I’ve experimented with going the cheaper route with my own haircuts, but I have found that paying the big bucks for my professional salon cut is WELL worth the money. My hair looks sooooo much better when my longtime stylist does it, and having a great cut saves me tons of time styling it. I have thick hair and Erika does such a great job thinning it and my blow-drying time is cut in half.
So by going to the salon (not just any stylist, but someone I KNOW is fabulous) I save tons of time, and look better, too–and my dollars support a trusted friend and professional and the local economy. Sounds like a great deal to me!
I have long curly hair which only looks good in long layers. I googled how to cut it myself years ago and have been doing it ever since. I’ve also gotten really good at cutting my boys hair and keep my daughter’s hair long and easy to cut. My husband still won’t let me touch his but I figure we are saving hundreds a year with what I do.
I cut my husbands and both of my boys hair. We spent a little over $20 on a trimmer last year and it has paid for itself many times over! I give haircuts about every 6 weeks x 3 boys x $13 per haircut =$351 saved! I only get my haircut about 1-2 times per year so I don’t feel as bad paying for that.
Lol. I would never let my Bf cut or/color my hair. Something else could be budgeted out before that would happen. I have always loved the ideas and inspiration here but I have to disagree with this one. I would recommend bartering with someone skilled in hair and coloring. I know some people find deals at their local beauty colleges and I myself would just look for those 50% ( or more) Groupon and living social deals. That will still allow you for a huge yearly savings. You could still save a lot maybe with the childen’s hair if you have kids. Just my opinion.
I don’t cut my husband’s hair, but I do cut my boys’ hair. We have a $15 hair trimmer that I use and it’s pretty simple. I wouldn’t trust a non-professional with my hair. Yikes!
I cut my own bangs (for the last few months). The bangs need to be cut more often than the rest of my hair so I save that way. But when I need the rest cut I will go to someone professional.
Some salons offer free bang trims. Mine does. You just show up at 10 minutes to the hour and they will fit you in for the trim. It’s an upscale salon though so the haircut is not cheap. Actually I only have my hair cut a time or two a year so when you average out what my husband pays every 3 weeks, it’s cheaper.
I started cutting my husband’s hair about 3 months ago. Not only do we save money by doing it at home, but I cut it more frequently now than he used to go get it cut. And I’m getting faster at it too – practice really does make perfect (or at least close to it).
I agree completely! My husband wanted me to start cutting his hair. I’ve been doing it for 6 months or so now and I’m getting better and faster at it! It’s so nice to do it when it works for us rather then making time to go to a salon.
My husband never trusted me with his hair. Until recently he’s been shaving it all of so we don’t have to worry about the cost there. I on the other hand am letting my hair grow for now. The bad part is the greys, I’ve been plucking them but I’ll need to start coloring it soon!
I used to pluck my grey’s too….but they always seem to bring MANY MANY more friends as punishment! Ihave been coloring my hair for almost three years. Sadyly once you start coloring your hair, you really cannot stop!
I’m letting mine grow too. With one thing and another I never got around to getting it cut this summer. Now I’ve decided to let it keep growing and I will donate it to Pantene so they can make a wig for a cancer patient. I’m saving money and helping someone else 😉
Wendy, just saw your reply, and as a former cancer patient who’s had to wear a wig, I think that’s a GREAT idea! 🙂
Thanks! I hope you are cancer free now! I’ve never done this before, but I am looking for ways to be more giving even though I don’t have a much extra money. I thought this was one way I could really help someone. Lots of pony tails here, but I’m almost there. I’ve even talked my beautician into doing it too.
Hello, i wanted to cut my hair and donate it to any cancer patient…but i don’t know where donate it!..any help?
Kitchy,
I checked out Locks for Love and Pantene sites for hair donation. While both are great organizations, I liked Pantene better because they never sell their wigs or extra hair and the wigs go strickly to women who have had cancer (which is what I want.) But you can get more info online and them decide for yourself which you think would be better for you.
Wendy – I am very blessed to be able to say that I have been cancer free for over a year now, and things look good! But I am extremely grateful to people like you who think of people battling cancer and try to help in any way. Bless you!
Kitchy – I donated my hair before I started chemo (it was all coming out anyway! 🙂 ), and I know that my stylist donated it to Locks of Love on my behalf, but I have heard great things about Pantene’s program too. So glad you’re willing to donate to such a great cause!
I only have a few greys too, but am not ready to start coloring all of my hair. However, since my hair is pretty dark, I wanted to hide them somehow. I found that some well-placed highlights (which, I confess, are done in a salon) did the trick in covering them up for now.
I do cut my hubby and my son’s hair, though, and not only does it save us a ton of money, but the hubs loves never having to make an appointment!
LOL — what a horrible picture!! She looks like she’s being tortured! Too funny.
I was thinking the same thing!! Not very convincing….he he 🙂
I thought the same thing! This is not the picture to encourage me to cut or color anyone’s hair! 🙂
It just cracked me up; so I posted it even though it may have contradicted the post. I thought others might get a laugh over it, too. 🙂
I’ve never had my hair salon dyed, but I do go to get it cut at a salon. The last time my husband paid for a haircut was the day before our wedding, lol. If you buy a nice clipper set and learn how to use it, its WELL worth it.
I am lucky enough to have a sister in law who is a cosmetologist, but before she did that I used to cut my hubby’s hair. I didn’t quite trust him with mine, but I would go to a beauty school in town and get a cut, color, and eyebrow wax for about $50- not too bad!
We do this too, and save a fortune! My husband has even branched out to coloring my mom’s hair. 🙂