I need a haircut but am too scared to book. It's always awful

[LaffyTaffie]

I've had 3 haircuts in 3 years, all at well reviewed places and everytime they've butchered my hair.

But its too long and heavy for me
I just want a long shaggy bob.

I am auadhd so its complicated by the fact i hate new places and the haircut process anyway.

Urgh.

I’m autistic and hate haircuts too, mainly because of the awkward small talk with the hairdresser. I’ve been putting it off for ages but should probably book an appointment soon!

Exactly this :(

And facing the mirror too

I share your pain. I've been getting DC1 to chop it in a straight line but I could really do with a proper cut with layers at the moment but as I go through the list of salons in town it's shit haircut, creepy guy, cancelled on me twice in a row, left fingernail in my hair, shit haircut, £££. There's a new one I haven't tried but DD who is AuADHD has and she described the experience as "too fussy, too touchy" which was not the ringing endorsement I was hoping for.

Hi, I'm a stylist- why not request a silent appointment so no small talk and explain about the mirror. A good stylist will make the adjustments needed to make you feel relaxed and comfortable in the surroundings.

I would suggest you ask people you know for their recommendations, not just for the salon but for the actual hairdresser. Especially those whose hair styles you like consistly. It can be so hit and miss with general online recommendations as you have found.

Then rather than just phoning for an appointment, going in and ask for a consultation with the stylist and talk through what you would like and what they would recommend with your particular type of hair. That way you can be familiar with the surroundings and the hairdresser before they work on your hair.

Can you do this? I’m worried I would offend the stylist!

Absolutely! We get all sorts of requests and are always happy to do what we can to be as inclusive as possible. Remember, you are the client and paying for a service.

Would you perhaps find a mobile hairdresser easier? That way at least you can be at home and not have to deal with new surroundings.

Also, consider a mobile stylist. You may feel more comfortable in your home environment.

We have a mobile hairdresser comes every 8 weeks. As a family of autistics its good to have stability, no mirrors, familiar environment, can wash hair straight afterwards and hairdresser knows how much talking is acceptable! A school mum recommended her as someone who was good with her autistic dc.

Thats way too scary 🤣

I don't really have anyone to ask about their hair apart from my mum and she has a mobile hairdresser come but its for elderly people.

I think I would and probably my DS too who needs a cut badlybut he has same fear as me. He has long hair and last barber gave him a bowl cut so now he won't go!

Voting for a mobile hairdresser too. Had mine 5 years and she did my wedding hair, she's like family to us. She also listens and delivers every time