Good communication with your stylist is essential for getting the color you want. A few minutes of pre-salon prep can help you explain your goals, and ensure that your stylist understands your desired result.

Things to know before you go:

1. Try to walk into the salon with your everyday "look," so your stylist can get a feel for what you're comfortable with.
2. If you have the time, do a little research into color science. Knowing the difference between terms like demi-permanent and permanent color can help you and your stylist communicate more efficiently. Study up with Redken's glossary.
3. Your stylist is there to work with you to achieve beautiful color. The more you can explain what you want, the better the collaboration will be.
4. If you are going in for "corrective color"—to correct color results you are unhappy with from a prior coloring experience—be prepared for a longer visit, as your stylist may need to remove old color and then recolor your hair.

Salon Prep Check List

Bring your inspiration: Photographs and examples of haircolor you love will help you and your stylist explore your color options—and ensure that you both mean the same thing when you say, "honey blonde," or "scarlet red."

Know your history: Be prepared to tell your stylist about any prior color services, whether it was highlights last year or a color gloss last month.

Trust Your Stylist: Listen to your stylist's expert opinion. During your color consultation, he or she will consider your desired result, then evaluate your hair's condition and look at your skin tone and coloring in order to create your custom color formulation.

Ask questions: If you hear a color term you don't understand, don't hesitate to ask your stylist for an explanation. Remember to inquire about maintenance—how often you'll need to return to the salon for touchups, and how to best maintain your color at home between visits with Redken haircare products.