On-the-Spot Haircutters

Economy haircuts have grown in popularity in recent years. Maybe it's the instant availability. No appointment is needed for Supercuts, Pro-Cuts, Master Cuts, Cost Cutters, Nu-Kutz, and similar salons. Stroll through any mall in America, and you will find at least a few of these.

It's easy! You simply walk in, scratch your first name on their list, and take a seat. Is there a line? No worries! If three or four people are already waiting, you can go buy a pair of jeans or a frozen yogurt and come back for your turn in the chair.

Is this a dandy deal or a hairy risk for harried shoppers?

Convenience is king.

It's all about impulse. Did your bangs refuse to behave this morning? Time for a haircut!

Is there a line at the gourmet coffee counter? Why not go get a new look?

For busy moms, trying to squeeze a kid's haircut between feedings, naptimes, play dates, and errands can be challenging. On-the-spot budget hair-cutters have the answer, even if they don't offer fire-engine barber chairs or carousel horse stands for styling. Even the most basic walk-in salons usually provide coloring sheets with crayons, lollipops for little ones, and the ubiquitous Highlights magazines.

Need a fancy braid or updo for a party? An on-the-spot stylist can certainly do this for you. If no actual cutting is involved, what's the harm?

For hair emergencies, such as the slumber-party self-cut, the overzealous bang trim, or the kindergarten clipper, walk-in salons are just the ticket. For hair-coloring, permanent waves and other complexities, you may wish to visit a more sophisticated stylist.

Cost savings are key.

The price is right, too. For $10 to $15, you can get a basic haircut. Is it worth it?

Not unless you have very simple hair. Most of these quick-on-the-draw salons employ entry-level stylists. Is the risk worth the savings to you?

As far as children's haircuts are concerned, keep in mind that most reputable salons do offer discounted prices for kids.

Who's holding those scissors?

Consider Supercuts. As you sit in the chair, with the plastic cape draped over you, take at good look at the man or woman approaching you with the shears. To get to this point, your hairstylist has merely observed 15-20 hours of training videos and endured 40 hours of formal training at the Supercuts Stylist Academy (that's one full work week). Of course, the first 20 hours or so of actual haircutting is closely supervised, but it may be your hair on which they are trying out their newfound skills.

Many stylists begin their training in basic walk-in shops. Once they hone their skills, they want to move up to real salons.

Sure, you may save time and money by going to an economy beautician or budget barber. After all, it's only hair. How fast do you think it can grow out? Are you willing to take that chance?

If you choose to go ahead with a cheap cut, don't get frazzled. If you don't like the results, you can always hit another quick salon in a week or two for a couple of sawbucks. Within a couple of tries, you should be able to find a look you like!