New Year, New Hairstylist: How to Find the Right Hair Stylist for You in 2026
The start of a new year usually brings that "fresh start" energy-and for a lot of people, that includes finding a new hairstylist. Maybe you moved, your stylist moved, your hair goals changed, or you're finally ready to invest differently. Whatever the reason, choosing the right salon matters more than most people realize.
I'm Meg Ann Lee, a hairstylist in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and I see clients all the time who say they wish they had done a little more research before diving into their last hair appointment with a stylist who just didn't deliver results or made them feel like their hair appointment was an issue for the salon. So, let's talk about how to actually find a stylist who fits you, your hair goals, and your budget-without getting caught up in hype.
Start With Google and Reviews (But Read Between the Lines)
Google is still one of the best places to start when looking for a new hairstylist. Search things like "hair stylist in Eau Claire WI" or "Eau Claire hair salon," and don't just look at star ratings. Read what people are actually saying. Are reviews recent? Do clients mention consultations, communication, and consistency?
One bad review doesn't tell the full story-but repeated comments about rushed appointments, poor communication, or unclear pricing should make you slow down and dig deeper. Is the stylist or salon new? They might not be able to support your goals if you are looking for something complicated or extremely specialized.
Referrals Still Matter
If you love someone's hair, ask who does it. Referrals from friends, coworkers, or even strangers in line at Target are still one of the most reliable ways to find a stylist who does consistent work. Just remember that what works for someone else may not be the best fit for you. Hair type, lifestyle, maintenance level, and budget all play a role.
Social Media, Education, and Experience All Go Together
Instagram and TikTok can be helpful tools when researching a stylist, especially for services like color or hair extensions. Social media lets you see consistency, before-and-after work, and the types of clients a stylist works with most often. If you see a stylist's page posting DIFFERENT clients hair WEEKLY. You know they are getting a ton of hands-on practice. If you look at a stylist socials and they keep reposting the same clients hair pic over and over…. They either aren't taking pictures or just not creating picture worthy hair often enough.
That said, not all great hairstylists are social-media focused. Some prioritize their clients and education over constant content creation. What matters more is whether a stylist understands hair health, continues learning, and can explain why they're recommending certain services. This is especially important for higher-investment services like extensions-which I break down more in my Hair Extension Service Expectations series if you want a deeper look at pricing, maintenance, and reality.
Consultations Are Your Best Tool
A consultation shouldn't feel rushed or confusing. Bring a a few questions to the consultation but let the stylist guide you because you are on their scheduling time. Â You should leave knowing what services are being recommended, a general price range, how much maintenance is involved, and how often you'll need to come back. It's completely okay to consult with more than one salon before deciding. You're investing in your hair, and that decision deserves clarity.
If you're unsure what to ask or what to look for, I've shared more guidance in my unofficial client salon guide, which was written to help clients feel more confident walking into any salon.
Where You Spend Your Money Matters
At the end of the day, choosing a hairstylist isn't about finding the cheapest option or the most viral one. It's about trust, communication, and alignment. I always say you vote with your dollar! It's bigger than just hair. Finding a hairstylist who continues their education, shows constant growth and has clear communication will only help further the hair industry as a whole! Those salons will stay successful. Where salons who aren't demonstrating those things will slowly phase out... and who is that great for? YOU, the client. The right stylist will help you understand the cost, the upkeep, and the long-term plan for your hair.
Choosing the best hair stylist for you doesn't mean chasing trendy social media posts-it means finding someone who helps you feel informed, confident, and supported every time you sit in their chair <3