The 10 Most Common Questions Our Stylists Hear—Answered
At Swamp Mermaid Beauty Project in Austin, Texas, we love helping our clients look and feel their absolute best. Whether you’re coming in for a color transformation, extensions, cosmetic tattooing, or laser tattoo removal, our stylists are here to guide you every step of the way.
We know that sitting in the salon chair can bring up lots of questions—so we’ve rounded up the 10 most common questions our stylists get asked and answered them all right here. Consider this your ultimate guide to salon visits and hair care!
1. How often should I get my hair trimmed?
The answer depends on your hair type, style, and goals.
For maintaining length and health: every 8–12 weeks.
For short cuts or bangs: every 4–6 weeks.
Regular trims prevent split ends and keep your hair looking fresh and healthy.
2. How can I make my color last longer?
We always recommend Aveda color-safe products to protect your color.
Wash with cool water to prevent fading.
Limit heat styling, and always use a heat protectant.
Schedule glossing treatments between color appointments to keep your hair shiny and vibrant.
3. Do I really need professional products?
Absolutely! Drugstore shampoos often contain harsh sulfates and fillers that can strip your hair.
Our stylists carefully match you with Aveda products that are plant-powered, high-performance, and tailored to your unique needs. Using salon-quality products can make a huge difference in both the look and feel of your hair.
4. How do I know if extensions are right for me?
Extensions aren’t just for adding length—they’re amazing for volume, fullness, or even a pop of color without commitment.
At Swamp Mermaid, we offer VoMor extensions, which are lightweight, comfortable, and damage-free when maintained properly. Book a consultation with one of our extension specialists to explore your options.
5. What’s the best way to style my curls?
Curly hair needs hydration and gentle care.
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and moisturizing conditioner.
Apply curl cream or gel while hair is soaking wet.
Diffuse on low heat or air dry to avoid frizz.
Our stylists love teaching clients how to bring out the best in their natural texture with personalized curl coaching.
6. How do I prevent breakage?
Breakage often comes from heat damage, over-processing, or rough handling.
Always use a bond-building treatment, like Aveda Botanical Repair.
Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction.
Avoid tight hairstyles that stress the hair shaft.
A professional stylist can help identify what’s causing your breakage and create a plan to restore your hair’s strength.
7. What’s the difference between balayage and highlights?
Balayage is a hand-painted technique that creates a natural, lived-in look with softer grow-out.
Traditional highlights use foils for a more precise and uniform finish.
Your stylist will help you choose based on your desired look and maintenance preferences.
8. How do I take care of my scalp?
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp!
We recommend regular exfoliation and using Aveda Scalp Solutions products to remove buildup and promote growth. If you struggle with flakiness or irritation, our stylists can help customize a routine to soothe and balance your scalp.
9. Can I bring in photos for inspiration?
Yes, please! Pictures are one of the best ways to show your stylist what you’re envisioning. Just remember—your stylist will tailor the inspiration to fit your unique hair type, face shape, and lifestyle for a look that’s truly yours.
10. How should I prepare for my appointment?
Bring inspiration photos and an open mind.
Be honest about your hair history so we can create the safest plan possible.
This helps us provide the best experience and results every single time.
Ready to Book?
Whether you’re ready for a total transformation or just a quick trim, our team at Swamp Mermaid Beauty Project in Austin is here to make your dream hair a reality. Book your appointment online today and let us answer all your hair questions in person!