How to Prepare for Your Hair Appointment in Chicago: Pro Tips from a West Loop Hairstylist

Planning a hair transformation or maintenance appointment? Whether you're going in for a fresh color, luxury extensions, or a Brazilian blowout —or even just a fresh haircut—showing up prepared can make all the difference.

As a Chicago West Loop hairstylist specializing in hair color, hair extensions, and Brazilian blowouts, I’ve helped countless clients get the most out of their appointments—and I’m sharing the exact steps to take before you hit the salon chair. Let’s make sure your next hair service in Chicago is smooth, stress-free, and stunning.

✨ Why Prep Matters Before a Hair Appointment

Preparation helps you:

Maximize your results
Save time in the chair
Protect your hair and investment
Avoid unnecessary stress on appointment day

Let’s break it down by service, so you’re crystal clear on what to do before your visit.

🎨 Preparing for a Hair Color Appointment in Chicago

Thinking of a balayage refresh, a bold transformation, or just covering up roots? Here’s how to get the best results from your color appointment:

1. Avoid Washing Your Hair the Day Of A little natural oil protects your scalp, especially for lightening or coloring near the roots. Ideally, come with hair that’s 1-2 days post-wash.

2. Bring Inspiration Photos Visuals help your stylist understand what you’re aiming for. Pinterest, Instagram screenshots, or photos from my portfolio are perfect.

3. Be Honest About Your Hair History Tell your stylist about any past color, box dye, or treatments. It helps us avoid surprises and plan the safest, most effective strategy.

4. Plan for the Time Investment Color appointments—especially balayage or color corrections—can take 2–4+ hours. Bring snacks, headphones, or a good book to relax while your transformation unfolds.

💁‍♀️ Preparing for Hair Extensions with a West Loop Hairstylist

Getting extensions is exciting, but there are a few key things you should do to prep your hair and scalp beforehand.

1. Come with Clean, Dry Hair Wash your hair the night before using a clarifying shampoo (no conditioner on the roots). Clean hair ensures the extensions bond properly—whether you're getting tape-ins, hand-tied wefts, or keratin bonds.

2. Avoid Heavy Oils or Styling Products Products can interfere with adhesion or make sectioning more difficult. Keep it simple and product-free on the day of.

3. Know Your Goals Are you adding volume, length, or both? Do you want to match your current color or transform your look completely? During your consultation, we’ll discuss the best method for your lifestyle and hair type.

4. Schedule Maintenance Ahead of Time Extensions require care and upkeep. I’ll walk you through how to maintain your new hair at home—and when to return for move-ups or re-installs.

🌬️ Prepping for a Brazilian Blowout in Chicago's Weather

Say goodbye to frizz and hello to sleek, manageable hair—especially during those humid Chicago summers. Here’s how to prep:

west loop brazilian blowout — After Brazilian Blowout

1. Wash Your Hair the Day Before Skip the heavy styling products. If your scalp tends to get oily quickly, a light clarifying wash the night before is perfect.

2. TIme your color appointment accordingly If you're planning to get your hair colored, you will want to either do it right before your smoothing treatment or a few days-one week after. The smoothing process can affect how color develops. I’ll help you plan the perfect timeline if you’re doing both!

3. Bring Any Questions About Aftercare A Brazilian blowout can last up to 12 weeks—but only with the right at-home care. I’ll recommend sulfate-free shampoos and tips to help your smooth strands last as long as possible.

✂️ Getting Ready for a Haircut in Chicago

Even a haircut deserves a little prep! Whether you're going for a full chop, a trim, or a new shape to support extensions or a Brazilian blowout, here’s how to show up ready:

1. Know What You Want (Or Be Open to Guidance) Bring reference photos of the length, shape, or layers you’re considering. Not 100% sure? No worries. I’ll walk you through what works best for your face shape, lifestyle, and hair texture.

2. Clean Hair is Best (But Not Required) If your hair is excessively oily or loaded with product, a wash is helpful—especially for dry cuts. But don’t stress—your hair will be cleansed at the salon if needed.

3. Mention Any Frustrations You’ve Had Are your ends splitting quickly? Not loving how it lays around your face? These details help me fine-tune the perfect cut for your needs.

4. Style It How You Normally Wear It It helps me see your natural texture, parting, and styling habits—so your cut works for real life, not just salon day.

💡 Bonus Tips for Any Hair Appointment in Chicago:

Arrive on time (or a few minutes early) to make the most of your session. Traffic, whether you're driving or taking public transit can be unpredictable so it's best to give yourself some extra time.
Hydrate and eat beforehand—especially for longer services. Of course, I always make sure to have snacks and beverages on hand for you to enjoy throughout your service as well.
Wear comfortable clothing this is particularly important for longer services. Come comfortable - this is YOUR time. I also suggest wearing clothing (if you are having a color service) that isn't too valuable to you. As much as I do my best to keep things as clean as possible, things happen and I would hate for you to ruin your favorite items!
Communicate your hair goals and concerns clearly—we’re a team!

chicago west loop hairstylist — Follow me on Instagram to see my portfolio!

Ready to Book with a Trusted Chicago Hairstylist?

If you're looking for a hairstylist in West Loop Chicago who specializes in custom color, natural-looking extensions, haircuts, and frizz-free Brazilian blowouts, I’d love to work with you. From consultation to final style, my goal is to make you feel confident, heard, and completely in love with your hair.