FAQ’s
Everything you need to know about color, haircuts, and Sage x Mane studio experience
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Do you accept gratuity?
-All pricing at Sage x Mane is gratuity-inclusive. No additional tip is expected.
If you’d like to pay ot forward, a thoughtful review on Google or Yelp is deeply appreciated and helps my small business grow.
Why is your pricing structured this way?
-My pricing reflects my time, expertise, product quality, and on-on-one studio experiance. It allows me to focus fully on you without rushing or upselling.
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What is grey blending?
-Grey blending softly diffuses grey hair rather than fully covering it. It uses lightening and/or toning to create a natural, dimensional result that grows out softly. It does not create 100% solid coverage, it creates camouflage.
Can I just tone my hair to blend greys?
In some cases, yes.
A grey camouflauge toner can soften contrast and add dimension without permanent color. A consultation is required to determine if this is appropriate for you.
Why don’t you use permanent color often?
I use permanent color intentionally. Once you commit to permanent dark color, you’re commiting to consistent root maintenace.
When possible, I prefer flexible options like demi color and toners that allow softer grow-out and easier transitions.
I’m new to greys, what are my options?
You have options:
*Grey blending (dimensional approach)
*Soft camouflage toners
*Hairline root touch ups
*Traditional root coverage
-We choose based on your maintenance preference and long term goals.
Can I transition out of permanent color?
Yes.
Grey blending and strategic lightening can help transition you out of solid permanent color over time. This process is gradual and customized.
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Why do you cut hair dry?
I specialize in dry cutting because it allows me to see your natural texture, density, and movement.
This creates more personalized layering and ensures your haircut works when air-dried, not just styled.
Can anyone have bangs?
Yes.
It’s not about face shape, it’s about choosing the right type of fringe. It’s also not just straight across bangs. Curtain bangs, soft shaggy bangs, textured fringe. There’s always an option that compliments your features and lifestyle.
I have straight hair, is my haircut and highlights approached differently?
Yes.
Straight hair shows every line and weight shift. I recommend looking at inspiration photos that have straight hair (can be tricky, I know) Most hair pictures are those with wavy to curly hair. Highlights need to be customized specifically for your texture, as well as layers.
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Why don’t you have a receptionist or phone line?
-Sage x Mane is a private studio suite. I work one-on-one with clients and do not have front desk staff.
The phone number listed accepts calls and texts, but I may not be able to answer while behind the chair. A quick text or voicemail is appreciated if you’re running late.
All detailed communication is handled via email or text so I can give you my full attention during appointments.
Why do you encourage booking in advance?
I intentionally limit my schedule to maintain work-life balance and provide focused unrushed appointments. Booking ahead ensures you secure your preferred date.
Do you have a waitlist?
Yes.
After you book an appointment, if you would like to possibly get in sooner. Cancellations do happen. You can join the waitlist, enter in your schedule preferences and you will be notified if anything pops up that aligns with your schedule.
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Why don’t you recommend combining permanent color for grey coverage with heavy highlighting long term?
While this approach can work short term, it’s often not sustainable over time.
Permanent color at the roots creates a solid base. When highlights (bleach) are repeatedly placed through previously colored hair, lightener has to break through layers of artificial pigment. This can:
-Prevent the hair from reaching the desired lightness
-Create uneven warmth or banding
-Lead to dryness, breakage, and thinning on the ends over time.
Repeatedly depositing dark color and then lifting it out places stress on the hair fiber.
My approach prioritizes long term hair health and dimension. When possible, I recommend softer grey blending techniques or more strategic color placement that grows out beautifully and preserves the integrity of your hair.
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How should I choose inspiration photos?
Inspiration photos are incredibly helpful; when they are realistic for your hair type and features.
When choosing reference images, look for:
-A similar hair texture (curly, wavy, straight)
-A similar length to your current hair
-Similar density (fine vs. thick)
-A similar skin tone and eye color
Highlights on short hair will look different than highlights on long hair.
Layering on fine, straight hair behaves differently than layering thick wavy hair.
The more similar the model is to you, the more accurate the inspiration becomes.
During your consultation, we’ll use your inspiration photos as a direction, then tailor the placement, tone, and shape to suit your natural texture and lifestyle.
