Beauty in Istanbul
Hairdressing salons in Istanbul tend to be unisex, with a separate section for men and for women. The stylist is almost always a male and it is he who will do the cut, colour, blow dry and perm. The female staff do manicures, pedicures, waxing and other such services.
Turks take their salon visits seriously so most salons are well equipped and offer a wide range of services. Salons abound in Istanbul and there are plenty to suit every budget.
Expats usually prefer the expensive salons, as the standards of hygiene are higher. Try Toni and Guy or Erdem Kiramer; both have branches all over town.
You will also find several smaller salons in your area, which will be cheaper. Visit each one and make your own on-site evaluation before committing to an appointment. Most hairdressers are apprenticed on the job, so they have good experience.
Once again, English is rarely spoken so that can cause a problem in communicating your needs. Tips are expected and tipping is usually 10 percent of the total bill.
It is acceptable to pay a lump sum tip to the cashier and ask him/her to distribute it to all those who attended to you, rather than tipping each person separately.
Turks take their salon visits seriously so most salons are well equipped and offer a wide range of services. Salons abound in Istanbul and there are plenty to suit every budget.
Expats usually prefer the expensive salons, as the standards of hygiene are higher. Try Toni and Guy or Erdem Kiramer; both have branches all over town.
You will also find several smaller salons in your area, which will be cheaper. Visit each one and make your own on-site evaluation before committing to an appointment. Most hairdressers are apprenticed on the job, so they have good experience.
Once again, English is rarely spoken so that can cause a problem in communicating your needs. Tips are expected and tipping is usually 10 percent of the total bill.
It is acceptable to pay a lump sum tip to the cashier and ask him/her to distribute it to all those who attended to you, rather than tipping each person separately.
