Should I tip my hairdresser and how much? 

Thinking of getting your hair done for a Valentine's date? Caroline Delaney helps you figure out if you should tip your hairdresser or not

Pic: iStock

What's the deal with tipping? I know it's pretty much mandatory in the States but does everyone tip every service provider here in Ireland? When I go to the hairdressers do I tip the stylist who does my cut and colour? What if that's the salon owner, is that weird to tip them when they have their own successful business? And should I tip the worker who washes my hair as they are often new and younger and might need the money more? Is it always 10% I should tip or is whatever change I have handy at the time ok? Do I put the tip on the counter or into my stylist's hand? And how do I manage a tip if I'm paying by card and don't have any cash on me?

We spoke to Greg Clarke who has been in the hair industry for 20-plus years. He co-owns Amica Eco Hair Salon in Castleknock and is on the board of HABIC, the Hair and Beauty Industry Confederation of Ireland which represents 2,500 members.