Now that summer is in full swing, people are going to be spending more money on beauty treatments. Pedicures, bikini waxes, spray tans, and other services that involve a beauty technician should be tipped. But how much should you tip? What if you are unhappy with the service they provided, do you stiff them a tip like when you get a bad server at a restaurant? Here are some general guidelines you should follow when tipping for beauty treatments this summer.
You can think of beauty services just like you would with restaurant service. If you are unhappy with the service you received, it is acceptable to tip less. Just make sure you have the right expectations of how the service should be done.
Spray Tanning
This is a fairly new service that is getting more popular as the risk of skin cancer from tanning beds has increased. This is a service you should be giving a tip for and generally 20 percent is standard.
Managing your Expectations
• Your expectations should be that the technician makes you feel comfortable, since you will be pretty much naked.
• Your tan should look even, with your hands and feet lighter than the rest of your body.
• Spray tanning will not eliminate tan lines, or cellulite.
• Don’t get a spray tan if you are sun burned or have peeling skin.
Waxing
Getting waxed, especially your bikini line, can be uncomfortable. Letting a complete stranger see you in that vulnerable position can be difficult, but the technician should help you feel more comfortable. Generally, a 15-20 percent tip is expected for a waxing.
Managing your Expectations
• Waxing does hurt, but it shouldn’t be an unbearable pain.
• The person giving you the waxing should be wearing gloves.
• If you want a Brazilian, you are going to have to be more comfortable than most people.
• It is recommended to leave the tip in an envelope at the front desk for your beauty tech.
Hair Services
With this usually being the most emotional service, the guidelines can be a little vague. Standard tipping practices are generally 15-20 percent, but regulars will often give their hair stylist more.
Managing your Expectations
• Especially if you have never been to a specific salon before, make sure you discuss exactly what style you want. You and your stylist should get on the same page about your wants fairly quickly.
• It is not okay to be satisfied with a bad haircut.
• If they splash you or the water is too hot/cold during the shampoo you should express your unhappiness.
• Don’t get mad because you have to wait a while for your turn or there is a delay in your appointment. It happens.
Manicures and Pedicures
You should be leaving a 20 percent tip for nail services, especially for manicures because the price is so low. Most salons will leave your hands and feet looking gorgeous, but that’s not to say that some people don’t leave with a few cuts and scratches. Is that unacceptable or expected?
Managing your Expectations
• If the salon seems less than sanitary, ask about what kind of sterilizing equipment they use. Hospital grade, or autoclaves, are best for metal instruments, while pumice stones should be sterilized in a special liquid bath.
• Many nail technicians are immigrants, so don’t assume they are giving you attitude or not listening. Sometimes the language barrier can cause misunderstandings.
• A little bit of bleeding can happen, but if you feel like they are being too aggressive tell them.