There are different business models of running a hairdressers. SWH is a hybrid salon, meaning we have employed and freelance stylists. It means we pay VAT, PAYE, NIC and pension contributions. We believe the best way to deliver great service and value is to invest in the edication, fair pay and wellbeing of our team. To insist on only the highest quality of products that are ethically and sustainable responsible whilst delivering the best results.

A great hairdresser can be hard to find. And when you do find them, they’re worth holding onto. Your relationship with your stylist is built on trust, understanding, professionalism and personality. They’re often also a confidente, a counsellor and a cheerleader. A great client-stylist relationship can last a lifetime. And through those years, your stylist is investing in their skills, education and experience to continue offering you the absolute best service they can. Their price is going to increase along with that investment in their craft. But you wear your hair every day. It’s who you present to the world. And so by investing in a great hairdresser, you’re ultimately investing in yourself.

Many salon brands also product high street versions of their professional ranges. It’s not that they’re bad for you, but they’re often quick fixes and a false economy. A box colour won’t last you as long, be as multi-tonal or be bespoke in the way a great salon colour will. It’s a false economy. Similarly, with the styling products you use. A high-street brand might achieve shine or softness but it may just be leaving a later of silicon on the surface if the hair. Whereas a salon quality product will penetrative the hair and nourish from within. Sustainable, smaller brands are often more expensive to use and buy in-salon, but they’re worth the cost. They have no nasties in them, are less likely to cause a reaction, are animal-friendly and use sustainable packaging. By spending a little more, you’re making a big difference in longevity of results, hair health and reducing environmental impact. It’s a win-win!

While it’s true that many great hairdressers and salons don’t have awards, it is a good indication of quality and professionalism if they do. Awards are subjective, so one person’s GOAT stylist isn’t going to be another’s. And yes, some awarding bodies are not always totally unbiased – there are lots of paid, promotional awards out there covering all manner of industries and interests. But if a salon or stylist has recognition from a reputable brand or industry body, it’s worth paying attention to. Do your research; if you’re thinking of trying a new salon, Google any awards they hold.

Like awards, accreditations are a good clue as to how professional a salon’s approach is to what they do. Look out for salons who are members of organisations like the NHBF, Good Salon Guide or Hair and Barber Council. They follow strict protocols in terms of skin-testing, having appropriate insurance, following health and safety guidelines and having the right qualifications. Believe it or not, anyone can set-up as a hairdresser or barber without any qualifications at all! By choosing an accredited salon, you know you’re in good hands.

Profit is important. It’s what enables us to keep going and keep our team in employment. But it’s not the most important thing. Our ethics, our community and our legacy are worth far more. So at SWH we provide discounted services for local traders, residents, employees and members of neighbouring businesses. As well as blue light discounts and offers for teachers and students. For several years, we’ve offered co plimentary services for some of Brighton’s most vulnerable residents. And in response to the growing cost of living crisis over the last few years, we introduced a price-inclusive menu of essential services with our New Talent stylists. We are a salon for all our community and we put people first.