In the days of department stores, off price retail chains, and Amazon Prime, why in the world would we buy our hair products from the salon?!
I'll tell you why.
First of all, we have this idea that salon brands are CRAZY expensive. Expensive is a relative term. We all have different budgets. Salon brands can range anywhere from $10-$100+. Most of the time your salon can match the price of your products found on Amazon, Ulta or Target. I promise there are salon grade products that fit in your budget if you visit a salon regularly.
Secondly, ingredients are important. Your hair CANNOT heal itself. It's dead, just like my 2020 EDM festival dreams. So, choosing products that will help keep it "looking alive" is key! You can fill and coat your hair strands to make your hair more manageable. That's where the magic is! Drugstore brands are mostly just detergents that remove the oil from your hair. Salon brands add in other high quality ingredients that make your hair feel softer. Over time, it makes styling more manageable. This is why you shouldn't be buying hair products at "off price stores" aka TJmaxx or Ross. These products do have a shelf life and the number one reason they are at those locations is because the brand can't sell those specific products elsewhere. If you're wondering about the shelf life of your products, check out this website!
Thirdly, if you are spending $100+ on your hair color, does it make sense to take care of it with a $3 shampoo? Drugstore products are meant to work on the masses. How does that bottle know what your hair needs? It doesn't. No one knows better than you and your stylist. You live with your hair. Communicate with your stylist to create the perfect product routine based on your hair texture, color, length and hair goals!
Lastly, your stylist makes commission! Yes, it's another way you can help support them and their small local business. Your stylist is the person you trust with your hair and your secrets; your go-to for all styling tips, late night hair emergencies and that extra confidence boost! The product commission they earn likely goes right back into their business, buying them updated tools and continued education.
If you read this whole article and realized you don't have a regular stylist yet feel free to reach out to me! There are so many wonderful, talented hair artists in the Eau Claire area I have full confidence you can find a perfect fit.