Living, working and getting around in Greater Manchester
How to Choose a Hairdresser in Manchester
7 November 2026
The way to choose between hairdressers in Manchester is to be clear on what you want, look at recent work on hair like yours and ask a few questions before you book. Anyone can legally work as a hairdresser in the UK, so a little research goes a long way.
Quick answer: To find a good hairdresser in Manchester, look for recent photos of work on hair like yours, read several reviews and ask about the stylist’s experience. Check the price list before you book, and ask about a patch test before any colour service.
Key Takeaways
The Hair and Barber Council says anyone can practise as a hairdresser or barber with no training or qualifications, so check experience yourself.
State Registration is voluntary, but it’s a useful sign of a stylist’s commitment to the trade.
Recent photos of work on hair like yours tell you more than a star rating.
Check the price list and ask what’s included before you book.
Tell your stylist about any past reaction to hair dye before a colour service.
How to Choose a Hairdresser in Manchester
Clarify What You Want
Start with your goal. Are you after a new colour, a restyle or just a tidy-up? Some salons are known for colour work, while many barbers focus on precision cuts and beard trims, so what you want will narrow the list quickly.
Research Salons and Stylists
Greater Manchester has everything from large city centre salons to independent stylists in the suburbs. Read reviews on Google and Facebook, look for consistent feedback, and check up-to-date photos of recent work.
If you’ve just arrived, ask neighbours and colleagues who they use. Our guide to choosing a removals company covers the move itself, and a personal recommendation is often the quickest way to find someone good once you’ve landed.
Ask for a Consultation
Many salons now offer online booking, which is useful for checking availability and choosing a stylist. If you’re planning a big change, ask whether a consultation is available first. It’s your chance to talk through the look you want and see how well the stylist listens.
Check Their Training
This is where hairdressing differs from many other jobs. Replacing a window has to meet building regulations, as our guide to choosing a window company explains, but no such rules stop an untrained person from cutting hair.
The Hair and Barber Council (haircouncil.org.uk) was set up by an Act of Parliament in 1964 and keeps a register of State Registered hairdressers and barbers that clients can search. Registration is voluntary, so a good stylist may not be on it. It’s fine to ask anyone about their training and experience.
Comparing Hair Salons: Services, Pricing and Reviews
Understanding Your Options
Salons in Greater Manchester offer cuts, colouring, treatments, styling for events and children’s cuts. If you have Afro or textured hair, ask to see recent work on hair like yours, and check that the salon has experience with the services you want.
Comparing Prices and Value
Prices vary with location, stylist experience and the complexity of the service, and we couldn’t find a reliable published figure for Manchester, so we haven’t quoted one. Salons usually publish a price list, so check it before you book and ask for a quote for colour work.
Service | What to Ask | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
Cut and finish | Does the price include a wash and blow-dry? | "From" prices may only cover part of the service |
Full head colour | Will you need a patch test first, and how long will it take? | You may need an extra visit before your appointment |
Highlights or balayage | What’s the likely total for my hair length and thickness? | Long or thick hair can take longer, and may cost more |
Treatments | What will this do for my hair, and how long will it last? | You can decide if it’s worth adding |
Children’s cuts | Is there an age limit on the price? | Children’s prices vary between salons |
Don’t assume higher prices mean better results. Compare recent work and reviews alongside the cost, and ask about loyalty schemes or new client offers if the salon has them.
Questions to Ask Your Hairdresser
To get the most from your appointment, prepare a few questions. A good stylist will welcome them.
How much experience do you have with my hair type?
What products do you use, and why?
How much upkeep will this style need?
How quickly is this colour likely to fade?
What aftercare do you recommend?
Are you registered, or what training have you had?
Colour Safety and Allergies
Tell your stylist about any reaction you’ve had to hair dye, or to a black henna tattoo, before they start. The NHS explains that many permanent and some semi-permanent dyes contain a chemical called PPD, which is known to irritate skin or cause allergic reactions.
The NHS also says symptoms can take up to 72 hours to appear. A good salon will talk you through a patch test and follow the product instructions. If you’re worried about a reaction, read the NHS guide to hair dye reactions, or speak to a pharmacist or GP.
Accessibility
If you need step-free access or a longer appointment, mention it when you book. Salons vary, so it’s worth calling ahead instead of relying on what the website says.
Making the Most of Your Hairdresser Visit
Preparing for Your Appointment
Bring inspiration photos and be ready to talk honestly about your hair history, including past colour and treatments. Ask when you book if there’s anything you should do beforehand. The more open you are, the better your stylist can advise you.
Aftercare and Rebooking
Follow your stylist’s aftercare advice, particularly after colour or chemical treatments. Ask when you should come back for a trim or a top-up, so you can book ahead for popular times.
Hair for a Wedding or Event
Book early for a wedding or a big event, and ask about a trial. If you’re also arranging transport for the day, our guide to choosing a chauffeur service explains what to check.
Find out more about our weddings events.
If you have a question, get in touch with our team.
There is more advice on our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a good hairdresser in Manchester?
Search online, read several reviews and look for recent photos of work on hair like yours. Compare location, services and price, and ask friends or colleagues who they use.
What questions should I ask my hairdresser?
Ask about their experience with your hair type, the products they use, aftercare and how much upkeep your style will need. Mention any allergy concerns too.
Are cheaper hairdressers in Manchester any good?
They can be. Price alone doesn’t tell you about quality, so check reviews and recent work for the cut or colour you want.
Do hairdressers need a licence in the UK?
No. The Hair and Barber Council says anyone can practise as a hairdresser or barber with no training or qualifications. Registration with the council is voluntary, so ask about training and experience.
Can I book a hairdresser online in Manchester?
Often, yes. Many salons offer online booking, and some let you choose your stylist. If yours doesn’t, a phone call will do the job.
New to the city region? Our Greater Manchester guide explains how the ten boroughs fit together and how to get around, which helps when you’re looking for local services.