Three months later, I changed my rating to one star. I went to a hairstylist outside of Vancouver hoping to re-dye my hair, but was told nothing could be done. I had to cut the damaged hair short, keep it thick to preserve the highlights, and couldn’t thin it out or it would look messy. This failed experience is still affecting me, and even paying to fix it hasn’t been easy.
————————-
I brought a reference photo (not from the salon) because I wanted a soft, cool-toned grey highlight look. The salon assigned me a stylist, and out of respect, I didn’t request anyone specific. I also explained beforehand that my previous highlights had mostly grown out or been cut off—my hair was now an even brassy brown. The stylist said that if I wanted a grey base, I’d need to bleach the whole head, but to reduce damage, we agreed to go with dye and toner instead.
Under the salon lighting, it looked acceptable—subtle, nothing too bold. But once I stepped into natural light, the color looked messy and inconsistent. The highlights were all different shades—some strands yellow, others beige, some slightly grey. Even within the same strand, the root and tip didn’t match. It wasn’t blended at all, and definitely didn’t resemble the reference photo.
What disappointed me more was that although I technically had more visible highlights, the tone still felt the same—brassy, warm, and uneven. I understand that all dye jobs eventually fade, but I felt like I had already faded the moment I left the salon. I never got to experience that clean, cool grey tone I was aiming for.
My friends didn’t notice I had my hair done until I pointed it out. When they looked closer, they asked, “What color were you trying to get?” That really hurt, especially considering this was the most expensive hair service I’ve ever had. When they examined my hair further, they also noticed that the back had almost no visible highlights. It looked like most of the bleaching was only done to the front layers, while the inner and back sections were barely touched.
I contacted the stylist and explained how I felt. To their credit, they were kind and invited me back. I suggested doing a full bleach for a cleaner, more even base, but they declined, saying it would require additional cost. I trusted their judgment again, and on my second visit, they dyed the full head. It looked slightly lighter and more blended, but still warm, and the inconsistency remained very noticeable—especially under natural light.
For the next two months, I did everything I could—purple shampoo, silver masks, toning products. Only the strands that had been bleached years ago turned slightly silvery. The new highlights remained yellow and brassy. I knew from the start that all colored hair fades, but this felt like there hadn’t been much color correction or tone achieved to begin with.
The stylist also gave me a small trim. Honestly, it was just okay—not particularly good or bad, just average.
To be clear, I don’t believe the stylist was careless or didn’t try. They were patient and polite throughout. But in hindsight, I wish I had done more research and checked their portfolio. After the appointment, I looked through their past work and realized grey-toned highlights might not be their specialty. That part is on me, but I also believe the salon could do a better job pairing clients with stylists experienced in the specific look being requested—or at least clarify what’s realistically achievable.
In the end, I’m left with the exact brassy tone I was hoping to escape. No matter what toning products I use, it’s still there—because the bleach didn’t lift evenly or strongly enough in the first place. The overall look just doesn’t reflect the time, cost, or reference I gave.
If you’re considering this salon, I recommend thoroughly checking each stylist’s portfolio and confirming they’ve done the kind of look you’re after—especially with complicated colors like...
Read moreI recently visited Cue for a haircut and lowlights, and I must say, the experience exceeded my expectations. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The salon's décor was stylish yet comfortable, creating a perfect setting for a day of pampering.
My stylist, Masa, was exceptional. He listened attentively to my preferences and provided professional advice on what would suit me best. The haircut was done meticulously, with every snip seeming to be made with precision and care. I was especially impressed with the lowlights. The color was blended seamlessly, giving my hair a natural yet enhanced look.
What stood out the most was the level of personal attention and care provided. Masa ensured I was comfortable throughout my appointment and engaged in pleasant conversation, which made the entire experience more enjoyable.
The results were fantastic – I left the salon feeling refreshed and confident with my new look. The haircut was not just a change in style, but it also uplifted my spirits. I highly recommend Cue for anyone looking to revitalize their hair. His skill, attention to detail, and exceptional customer service make them stand out in the world...
Read moreMy hairstyle was saved by Shino! I found her because I really loved the works on her Instagram profile, and she did not disappoint. Shino is by far the most professional hairstylist I’ve met in Vancouver!
When she bleached my hair roots, I didn’t feel any discomfort at all, and the process was incredibly efficient. It was the best experience I’ve ever had in all my years of bleaching and dye my hair. My hair was in pretty bad color from my own attempts, but Shino didn’t seem worried or annoyed at all. Instead, she used her professional skills to even out the color perfectly.
When it came to the haircut style I wanted, Shino was incredibly patient and made sure to communicate with me thoroughly to prevent any misunderstandings. We all know how upsetting it can be to end up with a hairstyle you don’t like, but her careful communication eliminated any chance of that happening.
She’s cautious, professional, and so considerate—I can confidently say Shino is my favorite hairstylist in Vancouver! I honestly don’t know what I’d do with my hair if she’s not in Vancouver. I feel so lucky to have found her!
The salon itself is also easy to find, and the environment is very...
Read more