Minimalist line drawing of a tilted clipboard with checklist, representing pre-appointment preparation notes for Tom Zappala Haircutting

Preparation Notes

Failure to follow the preparation notes violates the flat rate Pricing Model and will trigger a Corrective Fee of up to $100 to cover additional time and resources.

To avoid this, follow the instructions below carefully. Think of this like surgical prep for your hair—clean, untouched, and ready to be worked on directly.

These notes aren’t about how it looks or how it feels on arrival. This prep is what makes the dry cut work and results possible.

  • On the morning of your booking, thoroughly shampoo (yes, with shampoo—and twice if necessary), condition and detangle—especially if you haven't washed your hair in multiple days or weeks. After rinsing everything out, either air-dry or diffuse. Hair doesn't need to be 100% dry on arrival.
  • No product of any kind should be in your hair when you arrive. This includes leave-in conditioner, heat protectant, gel, oil, serums, crème, curl cream, or dry shampoo. Co-washing is unacceptable.
  • Most importantly—on the day of your booking—do not have your hair tied up or back, headbanded, clipped, pinned, flat ironed, straightened, brushed out, or blow waved. Additionally, please no hats, beanies, or head scarfs. Bike helmets are okay.