Dealing with Difficult Clients Without Losing Your Cool

Let’s be real for a minute—have you ever had one of those clients that just drains the life out of you? You know the ones. As hairstylists, we’re not only expected to deliver beautiful hair, but also to show up with patience, energy, and a great attitude—even when it feels impossible.

I love creating a “red carpet” experience for my clients, but let’s be honest… some guests really put that patience to the test.

Take one of my regulars, for example. She comes in every six weeks for a root touch-up, and every single time, she arrives with layers of hairspray, root cover-up powder, and enough bobby pins to stock an entire wedding party. Oh—and sometimes she adds on highlights at the last minute.

She’s sweet and full of personality, and I genuinely like her… but she makes the service hard. She insists on full eye contact while talking, which makes color application feel like threading a needle during an earthquake. At the shampoo bowl, she tightens her neck like a statue, terrified of getting wet, and the second I get near her ears with water? Her head turns like I’m coming at her with a chainsaw. I try so hard to give her a relaxing, luxurious shampoo, but it feels more like a workout.

These are the moments where our professionalism is tested the most. Inside, I might be screaming a little, but on the outside, I smile, stay calm, and keep going. Because at the end of the day, the way I handle these challenging moments is a direct reflection of me—and my business.

Would I rather deal with two hours of silent frustration or deal with a negative review floating around town? I’ll take the inner scream-fest every time.

Here’s the truth: not every client is easy. But every client deserves professionalism, patience, and respect. Because our reactions matter. Our energy matters. And our reputations? They matter the most.