Tip for hmu trial?

I had my hair & makeup trial last week, and I tipped my HMUA. The cost was included in my package, but I still felt like I should tip her. Also, I'm getting hair extensions put in this Friday! I'm really excited about it! I liked my hair without the extensions but really want it to be longer (I'm doing half up/half down with curls).

Most HMUA do get paid their hourly wage, but still rely on tips. Some salons pay their HMUAs more than others and there's no way for you to know how much they're making. I'd tip as you're still getting a service. Since you don't know the actual cost of the service, look up how much hair and makeup costs at other local salons and then base your tip off a percentage of that.

I completely blanked on a tip, but I just had mine! Biggest advice is probably just to let them do their thing - they know how to get the best results. Also don't be afraid to speak up over small changes. Good luck! Relax and try to enjoy it.

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Yeah, I figured I should tip. just want to make sure I wasn't losing it. I've never done extensions, but my hair definitely won't be long enough by October.

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The cost of the HMU trial was broken down in my contract, thankfully! DC prices are so expensive, and she was in the middle ground. but thankfully my artist was able to give me a slight group discount.

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Thanks for the advice! they wanted inspiration as a general idea of what I wanted so they can figure out how to create something similar.

Take a look at Zala hair extensions. I have purchased from them multiple times and multiple different types of extensions. They are extremely affordable and excellent quality!


I am a licensed hairstylist and I do bridal hair. I would say -yes tip. A tip is not required but 20% is normal. Unless gratuity is already worked into price on your contract. I would read it over!

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This is helpful, thank you Logan! my stylist suggested Luxy hair, and I saw good things about InsertNameHere. I'll look into Zala, too. I don't think tips are built into the contract, but I'll definitely double check.

I tipped her the same way I would tip my hairstylist at the salon. As for extensions, I am having then put in but you can always get clips ins which are much cheaper!