The Ultimate Guide To A Cheap or Free Haircut in the UK

Haley X
25 Min Read

With the current UK cost of living crisis, the gang at Referandsave thought it would be great to write an article about cheap haircuts and free haircuts in the UK. Ever since the pandemic when some of us were cutting our own locks – the cost of hairdressing has never been too far from our minds. Haircuts and hairstyling can be extremely expensive but we know of a number of ways to bring the cost down. Budget haircuts can be a great way to get the style you want without breaking the bank but finding budget haircuts can be tricky. That said, with a bit of research and planning, you can find affordable hair salons that offer quality services.

In this article, we will discuss what budget haircuts are, where to find them in the UK, and how to make sure you get a good deal. We will also provide tips on how to save money when getting your haircut. So if you’re looking for cheap haircuts in the UK, keep reading.

Below are some ways to get cheap haircuts followed by a list of places in the UK which provide discounted or free haircuts.

17 Ways to Get an Affordable Cut & Style for Your Next Look

1. Beauty and Cosmetology Schools (mainly in London)

Are you looking for a budget-friendly haircut in London? Beauty and cosmetology schools can be the ideal place to get a cheap haircut. These schools offer their services at discounted rates so that students can practice their skills while getting the clients the desired look.

You can get a quality haircut without breaking the bank by visiting these beauty and cosmetology schools. They provide all kinds of services, from basic trims to complex hairstyles, at prices that are much lower than those offered by regular salons. Plus, you will be helping out aspiring beauticians as they hone their craft.

2. Stop Going to big-name salons.

Ditching big-name salons is a great way to get cheap haircuts without sacrificing style. With the rise of independent barbers and hair salons, it’s now easier than ever to find a low-cost alternative that still looks great. Here are some tips for getting cheap haircuts in London while still looking your best.

So if you want to get a cheap haircut, consider visiting a local independent hairstylist or low-cost salon. The quality of your haircut is more to do with the hairdresser rather than the brand!

3. Go For Dry Cuts

If you’re looking for a cheaper haircut then opting for a dry cut is the way to go. Dry cuts are much cheaper than wet cuts and can be done for less cost (and even at home) without any special tools or products. The process is simple – all you need to do is brush your hair and use scissors to trim it. This technique has been used by barbers for centuries and can help you get the look you want without spending too much money. Dry cuts are also great if you’re looking for a quick fix – they don’t take long and will leave your hair looking neat and stylish.

4. Be A Hair Model

Hair models are a great way to get a free or cheap haircut at some of the the best salons. If you’re looking for a new hairstyle or just want to update your current look, becoming a hair model can be an excellent way to save money and get the look you desire. As a hair model, you will be asked to sit for a few hours in the salon while stylists practice their craft on your hair. In exchange, you will receive either free or discounted haircuts. This is an ideal opportunity for anyone who wants to try out different styles and colours without spending too much money.

5. Work-at-Home Stylists

Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in at-home hairstylists who tend to provide a more cost-effective service to getting your hair cut and styled in the convenience of your own home.

They offer a range of services, such as cutting and styling hair at an affordable price while still providing quality results. These stylists use their expertise and experience in order to give you an amazing look from the comfort of your own home. With their help, you can now get a cheap haircut without having to worry about leaving your house or breaking your budget.

6. Get Haircuts Less Often

Getting a cheap haircut doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality. One simple way to save money on haircuts is to cut your hair less often. By cutting your hair less often, you can save money while still maintaining a great look simply because barbers will often suggest you get a haircut more frequently, even if you don’t need it. By setting a regular schedule for haircuts and sticking to them, you can avoid unnecessary trips to the hairdressers, saving you time and money.

cheap haircut / free haircut

7. Get your own stylist

You could consider finding your own regular stylist. With this option, you can get a great haircut without breaking the bank. So if you have a favourite stylist you can ask them if they freelance outside of the service they provide at the salon. This way you get to have your exact haircut from your favourite stylist for a lower price. With this approach, you don’t have to worry about settling for a subpar haircut if you have a favourite hairstylist you would like to continue using.

8. Go on weekdays

Getting your hair cut on a weekday might be the best way to go. Weekdays generally have fewer customers and thus may offer cheaper haircuts. Plus, you can also get more personalised attention from the barbers or stylists as there are fewer people waiting in line. So if you’re looking for a great deal on a haircut, try getting it done during the weekdays. Call up your regular salon and see if they have days where they provide a discount.

9. Training colleges 

Hairdresser training colleges are a great way to get a cheap haircut. These colleges offer professional hairdressing courses and provide students with the opportunity to practice their skills on real clients. As a result, they can offer haircuts at discounted prices while still providing high-quality services. In addition, the students can gain valuable experience and feedback that will help them become better hairdressers. So, if you’re looking for a cheap haircut, consider visiting one of these training colleges.

10. Student discounts

Getting a haircut can be expensive, especially if you’re a student. Student discounts are a great way to get a lower price on haircuts without having to sacrifice quality. Ask your barber or hairdresser if they offer any student discounts, and you could save yourself some money. Additionally, there are plenty of other ways to get cheap haircuts in the UK, such as looking for special offers or searching online for discount codes. With a bit of research and luck, you could find yourself with an affordable new hairstyle in no time. Check out Unidays and Studentbeans to see if they offer discounts. Sometimes hairdressers located close to educational institutions advertise their offers.

11. Qualified friends

Getting a cheap haircut is a great way to save money and look good too. However, it can be difficult to find a qualified barber or hairdresser who will give you the kind of cut you want at an affordable price. Fortunately, there are ways to take advantage of your friends’ qualifications in order to get a cheap haircut. By asking around and finding out who has the right qualifications, you can get the perfect cut for less than you would have expected especially if its one of your friends or family.

12. Keep Changing Your hairdresser 

Changing your hairdresser frequently can be a great way to save money on haircuts. By changing your hairdresser regularly, you can take advantage of promotional offers and discounts that many salons offer to attract new customers. You may also be able to find cheaper haircuts depending on the salon and the type of hairstyle you are looking for. Moreover, changing your hairdresser regularly can help you find a stylist who is better suited to your needs and preferences.

13. Care For Your Locks

Taking good care of your locks is essential if you want to get a cheap haircut. By taking proper care of your hair, you can save money on haircuts and keep your hair looking great. Proper hair care involves using the right products, avoiding harsh treatments, and getting regular trims. With the right products and regular trims, you can keep your locks looking healthy and stylish without breaking the bank.

14. Go For Low-maintenance hairstyles

If you are looking for a cheap haircut without compromising on style, then choosing a low-maintenance hairstyle can be the right choice. Low-maintenance hairstyles require minimal effort and time to maintain and look great all the time. This makes them an ideal choice for those who are looking for a cheap haircut in the UK. With the help of a professional hairdresser, you can choose from various low-maintenance hairstyles and get a stylish look at an affordable price.

15. Discount sites For the Win

You can always check out discount sites for a cheaper haircut. There are many websites that offer discounts on haircuts and other beauty treatments. These sites often have great deals on haircuts, including discounts of up to 50% off regular prices. You can search for your local area to find the best deals on haircuts near you. With a bit of research, you can easily find a great deal on a quality haircut without breaking the bank.

16. Go For a Group Haircut

Getting a cheap haircut doesn’t have to be a chore. Booking a group haircut is one of the best ways to get an affordable cut without compromising on quality. With group haircuts, you can save up to 50% off the regular price of a single haircut. Plus, you get the added benefit of being able to socialise with your friends while getting your hair done. Group haircuts are becoming increasingly popular in the UK and are available at many salons across the country. And so, if you’re looking for an affordable way to keep your hair looking great, book a group haircut today!

17. Support Your Local Barber

Looking for a cheap haircut in the UK? The local barber is the place to go. You can get quality cut from experienced barbers at an affordable price. Plus, you’ll be supporting your local community and helping to keep small businesses alive. Whether you’re looking for a trim or something more adventurous, the local barber has something for everyone. So don’t wait – head down to your nearest barber shop today and get the stylish look you deserve without spending too much.

cheap haircut / free haircut

Get Free Haircuts In London

Salons in in the UK & London may offer free haircuts, but other factors, such as luck, can also play a role. These free haircuts are offered under certain conditions. With the right information and a bit of risk-taking, you can take advantage of this opportunity.

Salons have trainees that must be trained to provide the best possible service, including practical work on customers. Offering free cuts is an excellent opportunity for trainees to learn their craft, as reputation is key for these establishments to ensure the quality of their services.

Any Risks of Free Haircut You Should Know About?

Haircuts are a serious business, and salons need to maintain a high level of quality when training new students. Salons have rigorous standards for ensuring that haircuts are done right, and this helps them protect their reputation and keep customers happy. With the right training and oversight, it is rare for haircuts to go wrong – making sure that clients always get the look they came in expecting.

Hair styling is an art, and it takes skill and experience to become a successful hairstylist. Senior hair stylists provide guidance and instruction to new trainees to ensure they have the knowledge and confidence they need to create beautiful haircuts. They provide continual instruction while the trainees give complimentary haircuts, helping them hone their skills and perfect their craft.

So here are 13 of the most notable places you can get a free haircut (mainly London)

cheap haircut / free haircut

1. Toni & Guy Academy

Toni & Guy Academy, founded in 1963, offers free haircuts and styling services to people in the UK. It is a UK-based hairdressing academy from a renowned international hairdressing brand. Toni & Guy Academy offers professional training and free haircuts/styling services to those seeking a new style five days a week. They also offer workshops, seminars, and free haircuts for aspiring hairdressers to learn the latest colouring, cutting, and product knowledge techniques.

2. Hari’s

Hari’s is a UK hair salon from King’s Road that has been offering free haircuts since 2020 and has quickly become one of the most popular due to its quality services at an affordable price. Hari’s frequently requests models for haircuts on Facebook, usually specifying hair length, type, or style. Appointments for discounted styling must be made online, with wait times usually being three weeks. Please check the online calendar for availability.

Customers can book appointments or walk into a salon to receive a free haircut. Additionally, services such as styling, colouring, and treatments are available. 

3. Vidal Sassoon Academy

The renowned Vidal Sassoon Academy offers free haircuts in the UK, allowing students to learn from top hairdressers. The Academy provides courses in hair styling, colouring, and cutting to help aspiring professionals develop the necessary skills for success. The UK’s top hairdressing school has earned its reputation due to its unique teaching methods.

4. Aveda Institute

Aveda Institute is a beauty school in the UK and London that offers free haircuts and styling services, as well as training for those interested in becoming professional hairdressers or barbers. The Aveda Institute offers free haircuts, allowing you to save money while getting advice from experienced professionals on hair maintenance and styling. It is an affordable way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends.

Aveda does not offer in-person services from trainees, but they often call for models on social media. Models are needed for a variety of hairstyles, from one-length bobs to blow-dries and colouring. Find a trainee who is looking for a model with your hair length and texture.

5. Jo Hansford

Jo Hansford is a UK hairdresser with over thirty years of experience. She demonstrates her dedication to helping others by providing free haircuts to those in need. Jo has been providing free haircuts to those in need since 2006, with the goal of helping everyone feel their best, regardless of their financial circumstances. 

Jo Hansford’s Mayfair salon offers professional hair colouring and haircuts at discounted prices with trainees, with services ranging from the cost of materials to £125. And she has been providing free haircuts to vulnerable people in the UK, and her work has been praised by many celebrities. She is committed to making a positive impact through charitable efforts.

6. Stuart Philips

Stuart Philips, a British hairdresser and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience, is most famous for his 2019 free haircuts campaign in the UK. This campaign was a huge success, with over 10,000 people taking advantage.

Stuart Philips offers salon-quality hair products at an affordable price, both online and in select stores across the UK. The business owner provides discounts on his products to give customers better deals.

7. Windle & Moodie

Windle & Moodie is a UK-based organisation that provides free haircuts to those in need. Founded in 2001, Windle & Moodie works with local salons and barbershops to provide haircuts to individuals who are homeless, unemployed or have low incomes. The organisation also offers training courses for people who want to learn how to cut hair professionally. By providing free haircuts and training, Windle & Moodie helps people feel more confident and look their best.

8. Percy and Reed

Percy and Reed is a UK-based salon that offers free haircuts to those in need of quality services regardless of financial situation. They believe in the power of a good haircut and strive to provide an affordable way for people to look their best.

Percy and Reed offer free haircuts from expert stylists, as well as product advice and styling tips catered to each customer’s hair type. In addition, they offer a range of services such as styling, colouring, perming, and more.

9. London School of Barbering

The London School of Barbering is a unique place where you can get free haircuts in the UK. Founded by two professional barbers, the school offers a range of courses that teach aspiring barbers how to cut hair and style it. They also provide free haircuts to their students and members of the community, which makes them an excellent choice for those looking for a great deal on quality haircuts. With their experienced staff and modern facilities, they are sure to give you a great haircut at an affordable price.

10. Hair for Men Academy

Hair for Men Academy, based in Shoreditch, is a free online learning platform in the UK that teaches men how to cut and style their hair. An online service is helping men get a professional quality haircut at home. They offer courses, expert advice and guidance for styling and maintaining hair. Hair for Men Academy offers free haircuts in the UK.

11. Total Barber Academy

Total Barber Academy offers free haircuts in the UK. They offer free haircuts and shaves from 10:30 a.m. on weekdays. Customers can select their desired cut or ask for a recommendation. They provide a safe place for people of all ages to get groomed. The academy offers barbering training and free haircuts to those in need, as well as seminars, apprenticeships, and workshops to develop barbering skills. Total Barber Academy strives to enable access to quality haircuts for all, regardless of financial status.

12. Rush Academy

Rush Academy is a UK-based organisation that provides free haircuts to people in need. Through its innovative program, Rush Academy aims to provide access to haircuts regardless of financial constraints. They provide free haircuts for men and £5 haircuts for women, as well as Ombre and Balayage treatments for just £25. To get started, sign up on their website.

The academy works with local barbers and hair stylists who volunteer their time and services in order to help those in need. With Rush Academy, everyone can get free haircuts regardless of their financial situation or location in the UK.

13. Taylor Taylor

Taylor Taylor is a UK-based hair salon chain that offers free haircuts to customers. They have been in business since 2003 and are known for their quality services and affordable prices. With over 20 salons across the country, they provide customers with a variety of options to choose from when it comes to styling, colouring and cutting their hair. They offer free haircuts on training nights, with a £10 fee for colour appointments. Their website offers luxury services and an inquiry form. 

Hope that helps and that you find your discounted or free haircut!

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By Haley X
Hayley is a dynamic 20-something writer, editor, and author hailing from the UK and residing in bustling London, is renowned for her dual expertise in finance and blogging. From a young age, she honed her skills in money management, becoming a respected money saver and blogger. Armed with a degree in English Literature, Hayley embarked on a career in writing and editing, ultimately landing a role at Referandsave where she not only edits content but also shares her savvy money-saving tips with an engaged audience. Beyond her editorial responsibilities, she is a published author, focusing on personal finance and lifestyle management. Despite her busy schedule, Hayley values work-life balance, often found exploring London's streets or unwinding with a good book.