Instagram is one of the biggest and best tools out there for finding all kinds of things: recipes, lifestyle inspiration, self-care affirmations, fitness tips, and YES, this is how to find hairstylist. Maybe you’re in a rut with your hair, haven’t had a great relationship with a stylist in a while, or recently moved and need a hairstylist in your new city. Great news! You can turn Instagram into your personal search tool, not just for a new look, but for the right professional to help you get there.

How to Find a Hairstylist via Instagram?

Many of my clients have found me on Instagram so I’ve got a good idea how it works from the other perspective. I’ve found a stylist on Instagram myself. After following, interacting with, and admiring the work of @audreyinskeep for years, we decided to finally meet and do each other’s hair. When my clients move away, I use these exact tips to help them find a new stylist.

Instagram / @jordanalorraine_hairstylist

First, it helps to have an idea of what you want for your hair. Do you want to go lighter/darker, straighter/wavyer or shorter/longer? Do you want a specific service? Do you want to make a big change, update your classic look, or maintain the status quo? Now, think of a few words that describe what you want. These will be your keywords. Some examples are balayage, brunette, blonde, long hair, short hair, Brazilian blowout, hair extensions, haircut, best haircut, bridal hair, prom hair, etc.

Here Is What You Should Do

• DO Search for hashtags that consist of your keywords, plus your local area (ex: #balayageportland, #hairextensionsmiami, #brazilianblowoutlosangeles, #bostonbridalhair and #dallashighlights).
• DO Check the tabs and look at “recent” posts that match your search. Those posts are sure to have great inspiration and current information.
• DO Try to focus on pics of people with your hair type, natural hair color, skin tone, face shape, etc.
• DO Search for hashtags that describe the person you want to find, plus your local area (ex: #dchairstylist, #detroitcolorist, #phillybarber and #sfhairsalon)
• DO Use Instagram’s “Save” and “Collection” features. Do you see that little button on the bottom right of a post that looks like a ribbon? That’s used to save posts so you can access them later. Also, you can organize your saved posts into categories using the “Collection” option, so you don’t get your brunch places all mingled in with your hair inspiration.
• DO Look through the pages of a few stylists you come across. Do they do a lot of the same thing? If so, is it what you want? Do they show a wide variety of hairstyles, colors and types? If so, is yours among them?
• DO Contact the stylist the way they have their page set up. Some will have buttons to call, text or email. Some will have a link to their website/booking page. Some will say what salon they work in, and show the number there.

Instagram / @jordanalorraine_hairstylist