What to Expect at Your First Professional Hair Color Appointment

Getting your hair professionally colored for the first time is exciting—but it can also come with a lot of unknowns. At La Foi Salon, we want your first color appointment to feel relaxing, fun, and confidence-boosting. Here’s exactly what you can expect from start to finish.

1. Before Your Appointment

Bring Inspiration Photos

Colors look different in everyone’s imagination, so pictures help your stylist understand what you’re envisioning—whether it’s subtle highlights, a bold transformation, or something in between.

Share Your Hair History

Be open about any previous color, chemical treatments, or at-home color attempts. This helps us choose the safest and most effective path to achieving your desired look.

Prep Your Hair

Healthy hair accepts color better. A little extra hydration—like a deep conditioning treatment the week before—can make a big difference. It’s also best to arrive with dry hair that hasn’t been washed for about 24–48 hours so your natural oils can protect your scalp.

Expect That Big Changes May Take Multiple Sessions

Going dramatically lighter or darker can be a process. Your stylist will give honest expectations up front so your hair stays healthy throughout the journey.

2. During Your Appointment

A Thorough Consultation

Your colorist will talk through your goals, look at your reference photos, assess your hair’s condition, and recommend the best techniques to achieve your desired result.

Possible Strand or Patch Test

For major color changes or sensitive scalps, your stylist may do a test to ensure your hair and skin respond well.

Application Time

Depending on the service—balayage, highlights, all-over color—your appointment may take anywhere from one to several hours. Feel free to bring a book, listen to music, or relax while we work!

Communication is Encouraged

If you need anything or have questions, just let your stylist know. We love collaboration and want you to feel comfortable the entire time.

3. After the Color Processes

Rinse, Tone, and Perfect the Shade

Toner or gloss may be applied after rinsing to fine-tune your color and create the perfect finish.

Blowout and Reveal

Once your hair is dried and styled, your stylist will walk you through your new color and make sure you love the results.

Personalized Aftercare Recommendations

To protect your color and keep it vibrant, your stylist will suggest products and habits that fit your specific hair type and color technique.

4. Pricing & Tipping

Color services vary depending on hair length, thickness, and complexity. If you’re unsure what to book or what a transformation might cost, our team is always happy to help with a consultation before your appointment.
Most clients tip around 20%, especially for longer, more involved color sessions.

5. After You Leave the Salon

• Your color may soften slightly after the first few washes—this is normal.

• Use color-safe products to maintain vibrancy.

• Heat protection is a must if you style with hot tools.

• Pre-booking your next toner or touch-up helps keep your color fresh and flawless.
  

Final Thoughts

Your first professional color appointment at La Foi Salon should feel exciting, inspiring, and empowering. Our stylists are here to guide you, answer every question, and create a color you’ll absolutely love—while keeping your hair healthy and beautiful.

Ready to start your color journey? We’d be thrilled to see you in our Lubbock salon.