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I (correction: one of my friends) found my first gray hair when I was 20. My mom is beautiful and some would never know, but she is completely gray. She's not even 50 yet! At the sight of that first gray hair, I thought I was doomed with my mother's genes. Luckily, I'm not completely gray... but now, at 28, I have quite a bit of gray. I have had to go back to a lighter hair color, which hides the gray much better. But, I still have to get my hair dyed if I want to hide those pesky grays.
I miss the days when I could take a weekend trip to see my little sister who used to do my hair. It costs so much to get hair done these days. When I would dye my dark hair myself, I would spend about $8.00 every three weeks for a mediocre color. And my wallet just doesn't permit an $100 trip to the stylist every few weeks to get highlights.
But, there is an alternative! Try getting your hair done at a local cosmetology school. It not only benefits you (and your wallet) but you are also helping the student get the practice they need to graduate. Although, it might be a little scary trusting your luscious locks to a student, consider this... they have to get each of their steps checked off by an instructor. You also have the choice between a senior student (more experience) and a junior student (less experience-- but often cheaper).
I first went to a hair school a couple years ago when my old hairdresser moved. The girl did a FANTASTIC job. Then when my little sister signed up for hair school, I went to year every couple months at the school. She also did an awesome job. And today, I melted down and visited the local hair school. I was a little hesitant because the school didn't seem as organized or fancy as my sister's school. But, my student stylist did a fantastic job and her instructor was just as impressive. And for nearly 3 hours of work (highlighting, deep condition, haircut and style), it was only $31 plus tip. SCORE! And it looks awesome! Best yet- she is only a junior student.
So, if you aren't INSANELY picky about your hair and are looking to shed a few dollars from the budget, this is a great way to save money.
*Caution: There are students I would never let touch my hair. Just talk to the front desk and ask for a senior student, experienced student, someone who has done your color before, or someone who competes.