Are you in need of a haircut but just don’t want to cough up the cash? You’re not alone. Thankfully, there are a few ways to find free haircuts. Though honestly, there are a lot more ways to get cheap haircuts than completely free. You can even sign up for product testing to get free beauty samples for maintenance in between haircuts.
Whether you’re a parent on a budget for a kids’ haircut or want to freshen up your ‘do, hair care can cost a fortune. High-end salons easily charge upwards of $50 for a haircut. The trick to getting a free haircut without sacrificing style comes down to what you’re willing to do. It may involve volunteering at a beauty school or attending a teaching hair event. Don’t worry, we’ve got options to choose from.
While I have suggestions on where to get a free haircut, it’s important to read reviews. Moreover, always follow your gut and have a good conversation with the stylist. If you haven’t already, download The Krazy Coupon Lady app to get the latest shampoo and hair color coupons. And check out The Krazy Coupon Lady deals page. Our team is always posting the latest hacks for beauty savings.
Volunteer as a hair model for free haircuts.
Many salons and barbershops offer free haircuts to volunteers who are willing to be models for training sessions. Check with your local salons and beauty schools to see if they have any upcoming trainings where they need models. Not only will you get a free haircut, but you’ll also be helping hairstylists hone their skills.
Websites like Craigslist sometimes post ads looking for hair volunteers. This handful of places seeks hair volunteers and models:
- Fisher Experience (Boston)
- Salonapprentice.com (Nationwide)
- Conexion Salon and Spa (Chicago)
- SalonModel.co (Nationwide)
- Freefor Haircuts Facebook Group
Related: Your Guide to Free and Discounted Manicures
Attend haircutting events at nonprofit organizations.
Some organizations and charities host free haircutting events for those in need or during back-to-school season. For example, there are events specifically for veterans, homeless individuals, and children in low-income families. Keep an eye out for events like these in your community.
- Church and Community Development For All People (Columbus, Ohio): Free haircuts are available on a walk-in basis the first Monday of every month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- I Am a Gentleman: Through their Project Gentleman Experience, young men in the Chicagoland area who are graduating high school can receive free haircuts. The organization also provides access to other vendors who can help polish their look.
- Backpack Barber Foundation: This Florida-based organization offers free haircuts to the homeless on Wednesdays at the Fort Lauderdale City Hall Commission Chambers.
- Restore Salon Services: Philadelphia-based hairstylist Richard Cornish provides free salon services to kids and adults that cannot come to a salon. His team visits customers in their home, hospital, rehab center, or school, among others.
Visit local beauty and cosmetology schools.
Beauty schools offer discounted or free haircuts as part of their training programs. Students need real-life experience to perfect their techniques. To get this they often offer free haircuts to the public. Know that they’re always working under a licensed instructor. Check out these options:
- Miami Barber Institute: Student-barber trainees give free haircuts Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Additionally, they offer them Monday through Thursday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Book an appointment on their website.
- American Barber Institute: In addition to low everyday prices (like a $3 regular haircut), you can complete a form to get a free haircut at their Manhattan location.
Ask for first-time coupons, seasonal deals, or discounts, including Happy Hour Trims.
You never know what kind of freebie or discount you can get until you ask. Many salons and barbershops offer first-time customer discounts or promotional deals. Try these tips:
- Sign up for their newsletter or follow them on social media to stay updated on any upcoming deals.
- Ask if they have a loyalty program to save on future services.
- Inquire about weekday specials during off-peak times, like 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Practice DIY Haircuts
If you’re feeling adventurous, try cutting your own hair. There are plenty of tutorials online that can guide you through the process. While this option might not give you the same results as a professional haircut, it is certainly free. It’s also a convenient option for those who are short on time.
Tell us what you think