Photography: Courtesy of Sarah Piel/@sarah.slays.hair
As a salon owner or suite stylist, it’s important to ensure that your business fosters a safe and inclusive space for all clients. LGBTQIA+ individuals should be able to receive hair and beauty services without the fear of judgment or discrimination and be able to express themselves freely.
Here, we’ve highlighted four Queer-friendly salons that have created safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ clients where they can feel like the best version of themselves.
Photography: Courtesy of Joshua Lucero/@_joshualucero_
Joshua Lucero, Owner of Lucero Hair & Wellness
Lucero Hair & Wellness in Salt Lake City, Utah has fostered an inclusive space and safe haven for LGBTQIA+ clients in a variety of ways and is also active and engaged in the community. “Our first big point is that we don’t offer gendered pricing or services,” says owner Joshua Lucero (@_joshualucero_). “All of our services are booked by the time needed for the guest, which also allows us to accommodate multiple budgets, meaning marginalized folks who are not paid the same as counterparts," he explains.
"We also sponsor events for LGBTQIA+ youth every year, giving them free gender-affirming haircuts, nail painting, makeup applications, and a clothing hub for them to choose whatever they want to take home. We are active in sponsoring and supporting our local Queer organizations and believe in building community alongside them.”
Photography: Courtesy of Sarah Piel/@sarah.slays.hair
Sarah Piel, Owner of Black Dagger Hair
Black Dagger Hair Salon in San Diego, California is more than just a salon—it’s also a community hub that is committed to providing a safe, affirming, and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ clients. Beyond hair services, the salon has also started a Community Care Cabinet stocked with non-perishable food items and personal care essentials, available for anyone in need. “Our salon is a gender-neutral environment where all individuals are respected, celebrated, and free to express themselves without fear of judgment,” says owner Sarah Piel (@sarah.slays.hair).
“We use gender-affirming language, provide non-gendered service menus, and ensure that consultations are centered around each client’s personal style and identity rather than traditional beauty standards. Additionally, we provide a safe space for community meetups and collaborate with Queer artists and small businesses. Representation matters, and we make sure our salon reflects and uplifts the LGBTQ+ community in every way possible.”
Photography: Courtesy of Jules Heron/@hairforhumans
Jules Heron, Owner of Hair for Humans
Hair for Humans in Portland, Oregon specializes in gender-affirming cuts and welcomes everyone. Owner Jules Heron (@hairforhumans) also sets out business cards for local Queer businesses and volunteers at Queer shelters around town to give back. “Being a good ally and standing up for people even when they aren't around is the biggest thing, now more than ever we need community who will stand behind us,” says Heron.
“We are all people trying to be our best selves, and no one should be punished or invalidated for just trying to live their life. We cultivate a space where you can really be heard in what you want with your hair. We want people to feel empowered when they come in to be able to express themselves in the way that makes them feel like their most authentic self. My tagline is ‘Come as you are, leave who you want to be.’”
Pony Musgrave, Owner of Folklore Salon & Barber
In Los Angeles, Folklore Salon & Barber ensures that its commitment to the LGBTQ+ community of LA is reflected in everything it brings to the space, from literature in the waiting area to artwork on the walls and even staff. “Counter to industry norms, we do not price our services based on the perceived gender of the client; a long haircut is a long haircut regardless of who is wearing it,” says owner Pony Musgrave (@pony.of.folklore).
“We exercise our values through our business by collaborating with our LGBT center to offer free haircuts to community members in need, hosting quarterly donation-based haircut days, and volunteering at community events. We use our online store to collaborate with local artists and amplify their reach and maintain a book in our waiting area to spread awareness of other service providers and small businesses that share our mission," says Musgrave.
"We have a free hair-washing service for folks recovering from gender-affirming surgery and have been extending free services to community members impacted by the LA fires.”
Tips for Creating a More Inclusive Salon
Create Diverse and Inclusive Marketing
"Using imagery and wordage that can be represented to all people, allows your clients to feel more comfortable in choosing you as a provider,” says Lucero.
Educate Your Team
"Ensure all staff members understand LGBTQ+ identities, pronouns, and gender-affirming practices,” says Piel. “Offer training on inclusive language and cultural competency.”
Ditch Gendered Pricing
"Use pricing based on time, technique, or hair length rather than gender to create an inclusive service structure,” says Piel.
Use Non-Judgmental Language
"Opt for language that tells the client you aren't judging them about their appearance,” suggests Heron. “I always tell clients, I'm not here to tell you what looks like on your head, I'm here to tell you what shape balances out other shapes, what you think looks good might be vastly different than what I think looks good.”
Get Involved
“Volunteer at LGBTQ+ events and spaces, make your salon available for community events, and explicitly display community symbols, especially if you live in a place where it is unsafe to be out,” says Musgrave.
Next, learn more about LGBTQIA+ friendly salons and inclusive salon practices in this article: Artist Spotlight: Jamie DiGrazia.
