Going to get your haircut can be a daunting experience, especially if you are looking to change your style.

Follow out top tips to get the most out of your hairdresser or barber.

• At a traditional barber, it is okay to wait for the person you want to cut your hair to be free, even if others are available.
• If you don't want to talk, that's fine, but don't remain silent to the point of rudeness. If you fancy a chat, then go for it, but don't hold up the barber.
• Know roughly what you want when you sit in the chair. Talk to your barber; tell him your style, your likes and your dislikes. Be realistic. Choose a cut that suits your hair, style and age.
• You can tell your barber that you want your hair to look like a certain actor in a certain film. It makes his job easier, but remember they're not miracle workers.
• Never simply say, "do what you think is best". You won't end up with a haircut that you want, but most likely the one that your barber wants to give you.
• If your barber gets out his clippers before his scissors - unless you have a shaved head - leave immediately.
• Try to avoid using your mobile phone - repeatedly talking on your handset with make your hairdresser's job impossible and your haircut is likely to suffer.
• It is usual to tip around 10 per cent. In salons, you can also tip the person who washed your hair.
• Get your hair cut once every five weeks or so to maintain a style and keep your hair in good condition.
• If you prefer not to spend money regularly on a haircut, you should still visit a high-end salon once. Then, before the lines of your haircut have grown out - i.e. after about three or four weeks - go to your usual, cheaper place. They can then use your previous haircut as a guide.

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