With almost two decades in the hairdressing (no, hair designing) biz, David Moore is our go-to guy for all things hair-related. He’s seen it all, and now, dear readers you can benefit from his experience. This column is all about getting you there without blood, sweat or tears…

Hairdressers are funny creatures. They love you when you first meet them but over time they get a little bored with you (that’s if they haven’t already left).

So how do you find a new one?

There are a few ways to go about this without ending up in an asylum:

1. Talk to your mates, girlfriends, work colleagues or your beauty therapist, manicurist or the staff where you buy your clothes and ask if they recommend someone.

2. Check online for award winning salons in your area. These are generally a good indication of quality.

3. Find a salon and insist on a senior stylist, but don’t fall for that tiered system such as Director/Art Director/Education Director/Traffic Director and so on. This is purely a ploy to charge more for staff with big egos.

4. Be prepared to pay for it, but if you’re not happy, you MUST go back and ask them to fix it. It’s your right and their legal responsibility.

5. Be clear and concise about what you want (at least for the first visit). They’re hairdressers - not mind readers.

6. If you find someone good, slip them your mobile number and ask them to call you if they leave.

7. If you’ve found someone and are still unsure: Guys - ask them to just clean up around the edges of your hair. Girls - get them to do a blow dry first.

Like finding a good doctor, dentist or dancing partner, finding a good hairdresser can be painful, nauseating and hell on your toes, but it’s so worth it when you do.

Good Luck!

'Til then,

David