Gender-Neutral Hair Salons: Why They Matter, How to Find One, and Top U.S. Recommendations
What is a Gender-Neutral Hair Salon?
A gender-neutral hair salon is an inclusive space that provides hair services without associating them with traditional gender norms. Unlike conventional salons that is divided by the assigned gender roles, gender-neutral salons prioritize individuality. Without dwelling into the gender roles, they offer styles based on hair length, type, and desired look rather than gender labels. These salons create a welcoming environment for everyone which includes non-binary, transgender, and gender-diverse individuals. The embracing nature of the gender-neutral hair salons ensure every person receive professional services without discomfort or discrimination.
Why Gender-Neutral Hair Salons Matter
For years, the beauty industry has used gender-based pricing and services. The discrimination within the industry leads unfair costs and limitations. Women’s haircuts tend to be more expensive than men’s, even if the styles are similar. Gender-neutral salons dethrones these outdated practices by regulating the pricing policies based on service complexity, time, and skill rather than the client’s assigned gender.
Besides the paradigm shift in the pricing policy, these salons promote an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Many LGBTQ+ individuals and those who do not conform to traditional gender roles have faced discrimination or discomfort in conventional barbershops and salons. Gender-neutral salons address this issue by prioritizing inclusivity, using non-gendered language, and establishing a safe space where everyone can express themselves freely.
How to Find an Inclusive Gender-Neutral Hair Salon
If you’re searching for a gender-neutral hair salon, consider these tips to find a welcoming and professional space:
1- Check Online Reviews – The firsthand experiences from other customers regarding the attitude and inclusivity of the salon can be found in the Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews and Facebook.
2- Look out for LGBTQ+ Friendly Certifications – Salons proudly display their support for the LGBTQ+ community by establishing partnerships or earning certifications with organizations like Strands for Trans or Queer-friendly business directories.
3- Visit the salons’ website and social media – Gender-neutral salons often pays attention into inclusivity by using gender neutral language. They display diverse hairstyles without affirming any gender roles and promote fair pricing.
4- Give a call or Email Ahead – If you are unsure about the service, you are about the get, contact the salon and ask about their approach to gender-neutral services.
5- Take recommendations from Local LGBTQ+ Communities – Online forums, LGBTQ+ support groups and social media communities can be great resources for finding the most suitable salon in your area.
Top Gender-Neutral Hair Salons in the U.S.
Below is a list of some of the best gender-neutral hair salons across different states. If you don’t see your state listed, consider using the tips above to find an inclusive salon near you.
California
- Hairrari LA (Los Angeles) – A queer-owned salon that specializes in creative, androgynous, and gender-affirming cuts.
New York
- Hairrari NYC (East Village, Bushwick, Williamsburg) – Offers non-gendered pricing and a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere.
Texas
- Good Hair Co. (Austin) – A Black-owned, multi-textured salon with a holistic approach to hair care in an inclusive setting.
Oregon
- Hairrari PDX (Portland) – Known for gender-neutral pricing and a focus on personalized styles.
Rhode Island
- Flipp Salon (Providence) – Believes in hair without gender labels, offering a pricing model based on time and service.
Connecticut
- Pride in Your Hair (Wilton) – Encourages clients to experiment with their hair freely, without gender-based constraints.
Utah
- Brooklyn Kate Hair (Salt Lake City) – A queer haircutting specialist known for gender-affirming styles.
Georgia
- The Grain Midtown (Atlanta) – A queer-owned barbershop offering an inclusive and comfortable space for all.
If you’re looking for more options, directories like Strands for Trans provide a global listing of gender-neutral and LGBTQ+-friendly hair salons.