Frequently asked

Use the inquiry form on the home page or DM @hairbynicolekristina on Instagram. New clients start with a brief consultation. I respond within 24 hours.

Yes. The initial consultation is free — 5–10 minutes by phone or Instagram DM, or in person for extensions and complex services. I quote your service after the consultation, with no obligation to book.

So I can quote accurately and prepare. Hair condition, chemical history, length, and goals all affect time, product, and pricing. A 5–10 minute conversation is usually enough.

Yes. A deposit confirms every appointment and is applied toward your service total. Deposits are non-refundable but fully transferable to a rescheduled appointment with 24-hour notice. Deposit amounts vary by service.

For standard services (cuts, blowouts, single-process color): 1–2 weeks ahead is usually fine. For balayage and extensions: 3–4 weeks. For bridal: 6–8 weeks minimum, longer for peak wedding season.

No — by appointment only. This protects your time and ensures every client gets focused attention.

Blowouts run about 60 minutes. Cuts with blowout: 75 minutes. Single-process color: 90 minutes to 2 hours. Balayage: 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on length and density. Styling braids (single, French, Dutch): 30–45 minutes. Traditional box braids: 4 to 8+ hours depending on length and density. I’ll always confirm an estimate when booking.

No. Extensions always require a consultation first. Hair type, length goals, lifestyle, and budget all factor into the right method, color match, and quantity. The consultation is 20–30 minutes.

Yes — day-of bridal services are available on location within a 20-mile radius of Orange. Travel fees apply beyond that. Trials happen at appointments.

Not currently. My specialties are custom lived-in color, cuts, styling, and bridal. I’m happy to refer you to trusted barbers in Orange County.

Pre-paid. Buy a 4-Pack ($200, save $40) or 2-Pack ($105, save $15) up front, then schedule blowouts as needed — no monthly billing, no recurring charges. Packs are purchased as a single transaction and used flexibly on your schedule.

Traditional box braids are quoted at consultation — pricing depends significantly on length, size, and density. Quick styling braids: single braids from $45, French braid from $35, Dutch braid from $40.

Traditional box braids: 4 to 8+ hours depending on style, length, and braid size. Plan to bring water, snacks, and something to do. Styling braids (single, French, Dutch): 30–45 minutes — book like any other appointment.

6–8 weeks with proper care. After that, take them out — leaving them in longer causes tension and damage at the roots. I’ll send you home with aftercare instructions and product recommendations.

24 hours notice is required to reschedule or cancel without losing your deposit. Same-day cancellations and no-shows are charged a $75 fee. Full details are on the Terms & Cancellation page.

Please call or text as soon as you know. If you’re more than 15 minutes late, your appointment may need to be shortened or rescheduled, and a partial cancellation fee may apply.

Hair services aren’t refundable once performed. But if you’re not happy with a result, please reach out within 7 days — I offer adjustments at no charge for the same service performed. Unopened products may be exchanged within 14 days with proof of purchase.

Credit/debit card, Venmo, and Zelle. Gratuity is appreciated but never expected.

Come with clean hair the day before, dried but not over-styled. For color services, avoid heavy oils and conditioners that day. Bring inspiration photos if you have them — visuals are more helpful than descriptions.

Wash less frequently (every 2–3 days), use color-safe sulfate-free shampoo, avoid high heat (above 350°F) without protectant, and use a weekly bond-builder or treatment like K18 or Olaplex. I’ll give you a custom aftercare routine at the end of your appointment.

Most clients come in every 3–6 months for balayage maintenance. A gloss/toner refresh between appointments (6–8 weeks) keeps the color from going brassy. Specifics depend on how light you go and how quickly your hair grows out.

Typically every 6–10 weeks for repositioning, depending on the method. Bellami beaded-row and tape-in extensions need to be moved up as your natural hair grows. Maintenance is billed separately from installation and we’ll cover expected costs at consultation.

Appointments are in Orange, California. The exact address is shared with confirmed bookings.

I prefer adults-only appointments so I can focus fully on your service. If you need to bring a young child, please let me know in advance so we can plan accordingly.

Yes. Most services are safe during pregnancy, but a few products may be substituted out of caution. Please let me know at booking and again at your appointment so I can adjust.