Tipping at the salon can feel like a guessing game. Should you tip more for a haircut than a manicure? What about when you're getting highlights or a spa treatment? To make your life easier, we've created a comprehensive guide to tipping for various salon services, so you can walk out looking fabulous and feeling confident in your gratuity. (Use our tip calculator to quickly calculate the perfect tip amount!)
Hair Services
Haircuts
- Standard Tip: 15–20% of the total bill (calculate it here)
- When to Tip More: If your stylist spent extra time perfecting your look or provided exceptional service, consider tipping closer to 25%
Hair Coloring (Highlights, Balayage, etc.)
- Standard Tip: 20–25% of the total bill
- Why More? Coloring often takes hours and requires a high level of skill, so a higher tip reflects the effort involved
Blowouts or Styling
- Standard Tip: 15–20% of the service price
- Special Note: For event styling like updos or bridal hair, tipping on the higher end (20–25%) is a nice gesture
Assistants (Shampooers, etc.)
- Standard Tip: $5–10 per visit
- How to Tip: Hand them cash directly or include it in your stylist's tip with instructions to share
💡 Pro Tip: Use our salon tip calculator to quickly determine the right tip amount for any service!
Nail Services
Manicures and Pedicures
- Standard Tip: 15–20% of the total bill
- When to Tip More: For intricate nail art or particularly long sessions, tipping closer to 25% is appreciated
Acrylics, Gel, or Dip Powder Nails
- Standard Tip: 20% of the service price
- Special Note: These services often take more time and precision, making a higher tip the norm
Spa Treatments
Massages
- Standard Tip: 20% of the total bill
- Why Tip Generously? Massage therapists rely heavily on tips as part of their income, and a relaxing experience deserves recognition
Facials
- Standard Tip: 18–20% of the total cost
- When to Tip More: If your esthetician provided extra care or personalized recommendations, consider tipping up to 25%
Body Treatments (Scrubs, Wraps, etc.)
- Standard Tip: 20% of the service price
- Pro Tip: These treatments often involve a lot of effort and attention to detail, so tipping generously is always appreciated
Waxing and Threading Services
Eyebrow Threading or Waxing
- Standard Tip: 15–20% of the total bill
Full-Body Waxing
- Standard Tip: 20% of the service price
- Special Note: This is often a time-intensive service, so tipping closer to 25% for exceptional care is a thoughtful gesture
Special Considerations
Discounts or Coupons
Always tip on the original, full price of the service—not the discounted amount. Check out our guide on common tipping mistakes to learn more about this and other tipping pitfalls to avoid.
Combined Services
If you're getting multiple services (e.g., a haircut and color), tip based on the total bill but feel free to allocate a larger portion to the service requiring more effort.
Exceptional Service
If your stylist or technician goes above and beyond, tipping above the standard rate is always a kind gesture. For more on building great relationships with your salon professionals, read our salon tipping etiquette guide.
🎄 Holiday Season? Check out our special guide on holiday tipping at salons to learn about showing extra appreciation during the festive season!
Final Thoughts
Tipping doesn't have to be complicated. With this guide and our easy-to-use calculator, you can confidently navigate any salon visit, showing your appreciation for the care and skill that goes into each service. Whether it's a quick manicure or a full makeover, your tip speaks volumes about your gratitude—and it ensures you'll always leave on great terms. Happy tipping!