Key points from this article:
  • Standard tip for hairdressers in Canada is 15-20% of the total service bill
  • For exceptional service, you can tip up to 20%
  • Factor complexity: Add an extra 5-10% tip for complex services like coloring or highlights
  • Non-monetary tips like thank you notes and reviews on their social media profiles are also encouraged
  • Tipping shows you value your hairdresser's time, skills and effort and helps build a positive relationship with your hairdresser

Tipping your movers in Canada is not mandatory but considered good etiquette. By following tipping customs, providing refreshments, and recognizing their efforts, you can express gratitude for the movers' help with your relocation. With proper planning and cost-saving tips, your move can stay on-budget while still showing appreciation.

When it comes to tipping your hairdresser in Canada, there are certain factors to consider. Quality of service plays a significant role in determining the appropriate tip. It's recommended to follow the general tipping rule of 15-20% of the service cost. During special occasions like the holiday season, additional tips may be given. Non-monetary tips such as thank you notes or positive reviews are also appreciated. It's important to ensure fair distribution of tips among salon staff. Tipping your hairdresser fosters a positive relationship and supports the local hair salon.

Factors to Consider when Tipping Your Hairdresser

When it comes to tipping your hairdresser, there are several factors to keep in mind that can help determine an appropriate gratuity. Understanding these factors ensures that you are showing your appreciation for the service provided. Here are some key considerations:

Quality of Service as a Tipping Factor

The quality of service you receive from your hairdresser plays a significant role in determining the amount you should tip. If your stylist goes above and beyond to deliver an exceptional experience, it is customary to show your gratitude with a generous tip. Conversely, if the service falls short of your expectations, you may choose to adjust the tip accordingly.

Tipping Etiquette at the Salon

When it comes to tipping at the salon in Canada, it is important to follow proper tipping etiquette. This generally involves giving your gratuity directly to the hairstylist who provided the service. However, if multiple people worked on your hair, such as an assistant or colorist, it's important to inquire at the salon about the appropriate distribution of tips to ensure fairness.

Monetary and Non-Monetary Tips: What's Appropriate?

In addition to giving monetary tips, there are other ways to show appreciation for your hairdresser's hard work. Consider expressing your gratitude through non-monetary gestures such as thank you notes or positive reviews. These acts of kindness can be just as meaningful as financial tips and contribute to fostering a positive relationship with your hairdresser.

By considering factors such as the quality of service, following proper salon tipping etiquette, and exploring both monetary and non-monetary tip options, you can ensure that you are appropriately recognizing and appreciating the efforts of your hairdresser in Canada.

woman giving a tip to a hairdresser

How Much to Tip Your Hairdresser

When it comes to tipping your hairdresser in Canada, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind. The amount you should tip is generally based on the total cost of the service. Consider the following factors when determining the appropriate tip:

Following the General 15-20% Tipping Rule

In Canada, it is customary to tip your hairdresser between 15-20% of the service cost. This range is considered a standard practice and shows appreciation for their skills and efforts. While the specific percentage within this range is left to your discretion, it's generally recommended to lean towards the higher end for exceptional service.

Calculating the Tip Based on Service Cost

To calculate the tip amount, start by determining the total cost of the services provided. This includes the base service cost, any additional treatments, and applicable taxes. Once you have the total, multiply it by 0.15 (for a 15% tip) or 0.20 (for a 20% tip) to find the appropriate tip amount.

Tip Adjustments for Special Services

For specialized services such as hair coloring, highlights, or treatments, you may consider adjusting the tip amount. These services often require more time and effort from the hairdresser, so increasing the tip to acknowledge their extra expertise is a thoughtful gesture. You can add an additional 5-10% to the tip amount for such services.

Remember, these tipping guidelines serve as a general reference point. If you feel that the service exceeded your expectations or if you have a longstanding relationship with your hairdresser, you may choose to leave a slightly higher tip to show your appreciation.

Tipping During the Holiday Season and Other Occasions

When it comes to tipping your hairdresser during the holiday season and other special occasions, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind. Showing appreciation for their hard work and dedication can go a long way in fostering a positive stylist-client relationship. Let's explore some tips and alternatives to monetary tips to express your gratitude.

Additional Tips for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time to spread joy and show gratitude to those who have provided exceptional service throughout the year. Consider giving an extra tip to your hairdresser during this festive period as a token of appreciation. It can be a thoughtful gesture that acknowledges their efforts and dedication, leaving a lasting impression during a time of celebration.

When your hairdresser goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional service, consider rewarding them with a generous tip. Recognizing their outstanding skills, attention to detail, and the ability to bring your desired hairstyle to life deserves a special acknowledgment. By giving a larger tip, you can express your gratitude for the extraordinary experience they've provided.

Alternatives to Monetary Tips: Thank You Notes and Reviews

While monetary tips are a common way to show appreciation, there are alternative methods to express your gratitude to your hairdresser. Consider writing a heartfelt thank you note expressing your satisfaction and admiration for their services. A handwritten note can make a lasting impression and shows that you've taken the time to convey your gratitude personally.

In addition to thank you notes, you can also leave positive reviews on salon websites, social media platforms, or relevant online communities. Sharing your positive experiences can contribute to the hairdresser's professional reputation and help them attract new clients. These non-monetary gestures of appreciation can make a significant impact and create a mutual sense of respect and admiration.

  • Consider giving an extra tip during the holiday season to show your appreciation.
  • Reward exceptional service with a more generous tip.
  • Express gratitude with a heartfelt thank you note.
  • Leave positive reviews online to support your hairdresser's reputation.

Remember, these alternatives to monetary tips can be a meaningful way to show your gratitude and build a stronger bond with your hairdresser.

Benefits of Tipping Your Hairdresser

Nurturing a Positive Stylist-Client Relationship

Tipping your hairdresser is not just about showing gratitude for their services, but it also helps foster a positive relationship between you and your stylist. By tipping generously, you communicate your satisfaction and appreciation for their skills and efforts. This creates a welcoming and supportive environment for future visits, where your hairdresser can tailor their services to meet your specific needs. A positive stylist-client relationship ensures a more enjoyable salon experience for both parties involved.

Appreciating the Skill and Effort of Your Hairdresser

Tipping your hairdresser is a way of recognizing and appreciating the expertise, creativity, and hard work that goes into their craft. Hairdressers spend years honing their skills and keeping up with the latest trends and techniques. By leaving a tip, you acknowledge their dedication to providing excellent service and keeping you satisfied with your hair. Your appreciation motivates hairdressers to continue improving their skills and delivering exceptional results

Supporting Your Local Hair Salon

Tipping your hairdresser also has a broader impact on your local community. By tipping generously, you contribute to the financial stability and success of your neighborhood hair salon. Local salons often rely on repeat customers and positive word-of-mouth recommendations to thrive. Your gratuity helps support the livelihoods of the salon staff, enables them to invest in quality products and training, and ultimately contributes to the growth of the local economy. By tipping, you actively participate in the sustainability of your community and the hairdressing industry.

Legal disclaimer

This document is for general information only and is not intended to provide legal, financial or other professional advice. For advice tailored to your particular circumstances, please consult an appropriate professional. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the information, nor should it be construed as an exhaustive discussion of the topics discussed. Opinions expressed are those of the author(s) at the time of writing and may be updated over time. We do not implicitly or explicitly endorse any third parties or their advice, views, information, products or services.