Since moving to East Dulwich some years back, and now having migrated to Forest Hill, I have been on the search for a good hairdresser. The issue is not so much myself as I have been rocking the perpetual ponytail look for many years now. My daughters, on the other hand are entering their teen years. We have tried many hairdressers around the area and have always had the same problem... they treat my children like children! Hair is important to a 13-year old. Even when paying full adult price for a cut, it seems that the stylists will do a quick and dirty job, spending 15 min at best on the cut and style. It requires me to ask for adjustments here and there to make it look reasonable. The idea of an actual consultation and honest advice doesn't even enter the frame. Now my daughter wants quite a radical transformation, but I am so scared given the experience to date. We have even followed the recommendations on this forum, but it seems to be the same wherever we go. We went to see one stylist this weekend and she was unbelievably rude and negative, pointing out that the desired style and colour could not be achieved and never once offering advice for what could be done instead. We decided that spending ?150 requires just a dollop more warm and fuzzy, so we walked out. Puberty is a hard time for girls as they struggle with their self-confidence. I would like to find a place where she feels comfortable, is treated with respect, and can trust that she will get what she wants. Also, a place where she can develop a relationship with the hairdresser and feel comfortable going on her own. Clearly, this is more down to the individual stylist rather than the salon, but the culture of the place does (at least should) have an impact. Please can anyone recommend a hairdresser who gets it.
