It's Complicated Advice Q&A: How Do I Deal with a Nosy Stylist?
Every time I get my hair done and deal with different stylists, I also have to deal with their questions, like, "Where do you live? What do you do? How did you meet your husband?" I consider these questions kind of personal. I've tried changing the topic or asking them general questions, but that didn't work. How do I get them to stop? - L.L., 31, West Chesterfield, NH
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The next time you go in for a cut and style, be proactive. Drop into the chair and say, "I love getting my hair cut! It's so relaxing. I just get to really zone out and enjoy the quiet!" This is especially easy to do if someone at the salon has just washed your hair, which truly is relaxing. Once you're in the stylist's chair and you've communicated what you want (bangs? layers? Mohawk?), just close your eyes and sigh. Ahhh.
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If she starts in with the questions anyway, answer her politely but don't elaborate, and don't ask any questions in return. After a few of these go-nowhere exchanges, she'll probably understand you'd prefer some peace and quiet.
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Karen Karbo is an award-winning writer and author of The Gospel According to Coco Chanel: Life Lessons from the World's Most Elegant Woman. She's also a mom, a writing teacher, and a horse owner. Check out more advice from Karen.
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Whatever's bugging or perplexing you - about your friends, brother, sister, parents, in-laws, husband, you name it - REDBOOK's Karen Karbo has the smart advice you need. Email your questions, rants, and worries to her at karenkarbo@redbookmag.com and please include your initials, age, city and state. Letters may be edited for clarity and length.
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