Hairdresser Slang Decoded: What to Really Ask For at Your Next Salon Visit

Ever left the hair salon feeling like you and your stylist spoke different languages? Between terms like "dusting," "balayage," and "blunt cut," it can feel like you need a translator just to get the haircut or colour you actually want.

Good news: we’ve got you covered. At Hair Gang, we’re decoding hairdresser slang so you can walk into your next appointment with total confidence — and get the exact look you’re dreaming of. Plus, we’ll show you which salon-loved products you can grab from us to keep your style fresh between visits!

✂️ Common Hairdresser Terms & What They Really Mean

1. Blunt Cut

A straight-across cut with no layers. Think sharp, defined edges — great for making fine hair look thicker.

Pro Tip: Maintain that sleek finish with Davines Oi Liquid Luster Shine Treatment for a glassy, smooth look.

2. Dusting

A micro-trim that only removes split ends without changing your length. If you want healthier hair but are growing it out, ask for this!

Pair it with Nioxin’s Scalp & Hair Leave-In Treatment to strengthen strands and prevent future breakage.

3. Texturising

A technique where stylists remove bulk to add movement and softness, especially for thick or heavy hair.

Use DAVROE Cloud Volumising Texture Powder at home for that lived-in, airy texture.

4. Balayage

A hand-painted highlighting technique for soft, natural-looking colour with less maintenance than foils.

Keep balayage bright with ALFAPARF MILANO Semi Di Lino Anti-Yellow Shampoo — formulated to protect coloured hair from fading.

5. Root Smudge / Shadow Root

A blended darker colour at the roots to soften regrowth lines. Perfect if you want low-maintenance colour.

Boost shine and tone between salon visits with O&M Frizzy Logic Finishing Shine Serum.

6. Overdirecting

When hair is pulled in the opposite direction before cutting — used to create extra volume or layers.

Amp up that lift with ALTER EGO ITALY Hasty Too Volume Primer for a full-bodied finish.

💇♀️ What to Ask For (So You Actually Get the Look You Want)

Forget saying "just a trim" or showing a random Instagram photo. Try these pro tips:

Be clear about length. Use your fingers to show exactly how much you want off.

Talk texture. Say if you want movement (textured layers) or a clean shape (blunt ends).

Mention maintenance. Love low upkeep? Ask for styles like balayage or a root smudge.

Ask for product recs. Your stylist can suggest pro-level treatments — but hey, we stock them right here at Hair Gang too! 😉

Ready to Nail Your Next Hair Appointment?

Now that you’ve got the lingo down, you can step into your next salon visit with confidence — and get the cut, colour, and style that’s actually what you asked for.

And between appointments? Shop all your salon-quality hair care right here at Hair Gang. Because great hair doesn’t stop at the salon door. ✨