Salon Tip Calculator
How Much to Tip
Calculate the appropriate tip for your shampoo assistant based on your service cost. Follow the article's guidelines: 15%-20% of total service cost.
Ever sat in the chair at your local salon, hair wrapped in a warm towel, and wondered if you should tip the person washing your hair? You’re not alone. Many people feel unsure about tipping the shampoo girl-especially if they don’t know her name or if she’s not the stylist. But here’s the truth: tipping isn’t optional if you want to keep getting great service. It’s part of how salon workers earn a living.
Why tipping the shampoo girl matters
The person washing your hair isn’t just a helper. They’re often a licensed cosmetology student or a junior stylist working their way up. In many salons, they earn minimum wage or less, and tips make up the majority of their income. A 2023 survey by the Salon Industry Association found that 68% of shampoo assistants rely on tips for more than half their monthly pay. Skip the tip, and you’re cutting into someone’s rent money.
Think of it like tipping a barista at your favorite coffee shop. You’re not paying for the coffee-you’re paying for the care, the speed, the smile. Same here. A good shampoo girl knows how to massage your scalp just right, avoids pulling your hair, keeps water out of your ears, and doesn’t drench your clothes. That skill takes time to learn.
How much should you tip? The simple rule
Here’s the easiest way to figure it out: tip 15% to 20% of your total bill. That’s the same standard you’d use for your stylist. If your service cost £50, tip between £7.50 and £10. If you got a £120 blowout and color, £18 to £24 is fair.
Some people think they should only tip the stylist, not the shampoo assistant. That’s outdated thinking. In most salons, the shampoo girl does the prep work that makes the whole service possible. She cleans your hair so the color takes evenly. She dries your hair so the stylist can cut it without tangles. She’s part of the team.
If you’re unsure how much to give, here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- £20-£30 service: £3-£5 tip
- £30-£60 service: £5-£10 tip
- £60+ service: £10-£15 tip
These numbers work whether you’re in Brighton, Birmingham, or Bristol. The cost of living might shift slightly, but the expectation doesn’t.
What if you only got a shampoo?
Maybe you just came in for a wash and blow-dry-no cut, no color. Still tip. Even if the service was only £15, leave £2-£3. That’s about 15-20%. If you’re on a tight budget, £2 is better than nothing. But don’t skip it entirely. The shampoo girl didn’t get paid much for your 20-minute visit. A few pounds means a lot.
Some salons charge extra for a “premium shampoo” or scalp treatment. If you paid £25 for a deep conditioning wash, tip £4-£5. You’re not just paying for water and shampoo-you’re paying for their time, technique, and attention.
When to tip more
There are times when you should go above and beyond:
- She remembered your name or your hair type from last time
- She helped you when you were running late
- She noticed you were uncomfortable and adjusted the chair or water temperature
- She gave you a free scalp massage or suggested a product that actually worked
- You’re a regular and she always goes the extra mile
These small acts build trust. If you’ve been going to the same salon for years and the shampoo girl knows your hair better than your partner does, a £15 tip after a £70 service isn’t generous-it’s fair.
When to tip less (or not at all)
There are rare cases where tipping less makes sense:
- The shampoo girl was rude, distracted, or in a hurry
- She left shampoo in your eyes or burned your neck with hot water
- She didn’t dry your hair properly and left you soaked
- You were overcharged and the salon refused to fix it
Even then, leave £1-£2. It’s not about punishing them-it’s about not encouraging bad service. If something went wrong, tell the manager. Don’t let your silence become permission for poor work.
How to give the tip
Hand it to her directly when she finishes. Don’t wait until you’re at the front desk. She might be cleaning up, packing up tools, or moving to her next client. If you hand it to the receptionist, there’s no guarantee it reaches her.
Put the cash in an envelope if you’re shy. Or just slide it into her hand with a smile and say, “Thanks for doing such a great job.” That’s all she needs. No need to overthink it.
If you’re paying by card, ask if you can add a tip at the register. Most salons let you add a tip to your card payment-but don’t assume it goes to the shampoo girl. Always confirm: “Is this going to the person who washed my hair?”
What if the salon says “no tipping”?
Some salons, especially high-end ones, include service charges in their prices. If the receipt says “service included” or “gratuity added,” you don’t need to tip. But read the fine print. If it says “optional gratuity,” you still can-and should-if you felt the service was excellent.
Some salons pay their staff better wages and don’t rely on tips. That’s great. But if you’re not sure, ask: “Is tipping expected here?” Most will say, “It’s appreciated, not required.” That’s your cue: tip if you’re happy.
Why this matters beyond the money
Tipping isn’t just about cash. It’s about respect. It tells the shampoo girl you see her as a professional, not a background figure. In a world where salon workers are often overlooked, a small tip says: “I notice you. I value you.”
And here’s the bonus: tip well, and you’ll get better service next time. She’ll remember your hair texture, your preferred water temp, even your favorite shampoo scent. You’ll get faster appointments, extra scalp massages, and maybe even a free conditioning treatment next visit.
Salons run on relationships. The shampoo girl is the first person you connect with-and often the one who keeps you coming back.
Final thought: Don’t overthink it
You don’t need a PhD in tipping etiquette. If you’re happy with the service, tip like you would for any other service job. 15%-20% is the standard. Less than £2 is too little unless you’re on a tight budget. More than £20 is rare unless you’re getting a luxury experience.
And if you’re still unsure? Just ask the salon staff next time you go in. Most will say: “We appreciate any amount-it means a lot.”
Do I have to tip the shampoo girl if I’m not happy with my stylist?
Yes. The shampoo girl and the stylist are two different people. If you didn’t like your cut or color, talk to the stylist or manager. But if the shampoo assistant did a good job washing and drying your hair, tip them. They didn’t cause the problem.
Can I tip with a card?
Yes, most salons let you add a tip to your card payment. But always ask if the tip goes directly to the shampoo assistant. Some salons pool tips and split them among staff. If you want to make sure your tip reaches the person who washed your hair, give cash directly.
Is it okay to tip less if I’m a student or on a budget?
Absolutely. Everyone has different budgets. Even £1 or £2 shows appreciation. If you’re tight on cash, say thank you and leave a small amount. Most shampoo assistants understand. What matters is that you acknowledge their work-not how much you give.
Should I tip the shampoo girl if I’m at a chain salon like Supercuts?
Yes. Even at chain salons, the person washing your hair is likely paid minimum wage and depends on tips. Supercuts and similar places don’t pay their assistants well. A £2-£3 tip is still meaningful.
What if the salon has a tip jar?
A tip jar is usually for the whole team. If you want to make sure the shampoo girl gets your tip, give it to her directly. Tip jars often get split evenly, so she might only get a few pence. Direct cash is always better if you want to show appreciation to the person who helped you.