Getting a haircut or beauty treatment in France? Whether you’re in a salon in Paris or a small-town barber shop, knowing the right phrases in French helps you feel more confident and avoid surprises.
In this article, we’ll guide you through practical French expressions for hairdressers, barbers, and beauty salons — with English translations. From describing the style you want to making polite small talk, you’ll be ready for your next appointment like a local!
1. Booking Your Appointment
Whether by phone or in person, start with polite, clear phrases:
- Bonjour, je voudrais prendre un rendez-vous.
Hello, I’d like to make an appointment.
- Avez-vous une disponibilité aujourd’hui ?
Do you have availability today?
- C’est possible demain après-midi ?
Is tomorrow afternoon possible?
- Pour une coupe, s’il vous plaît.
For a haircut, please.
Tip: In most salons, it’s normal to book ahead — especially in cities.
2. Explaining What You Want
Be clear about your expectations to avoid misunderstandings:
- Je voudrais couper juste les pointes.
I’d like to just trim the ends.
- Pas trop court, s’il vous plaît.
Not too short, please.
- Je veux garder la longueur.
I want to keep the length.
- Je voudrais un dégradé léger.
I’d like a light layered cut.
- Vous pouvez éclaircir un peu ?
Can you thin it out a little?
3. During the Appointment
Make small talk or check how things are going:
- Ça va ? Pas trop court ?
Is it okay? Not too short?
- Vous travaillez ici depuis longtemps ?
Have you been working here long?
- C’est calme aujourd’hui ?
Is it quiet today?
- Vous avez beaucoup de clients en ce moment ?
Do you have many clients right now?
4. Talking About Your Hair
Need to describe your hair type or needs?
- J’ai les cheveux fins / épais / bouclés / raides.
I have fine / thick / curly / straight hair.
- Mes cheveux sont secs.
My hair is dry.
- Je perds beaucoup de cheveux.
I’m losing a lot of hair.
- Je veux cacher mes cheveux blancs.
I want to cover my grey hair.
5. Beauty Treatments (Optional Add-ons)
At some salons, you can get extras — here’s how to ask:
- Est-ce que vous faites les soins capillaires ?
Do you do hair treatments?
- Je voudrais un brushing.
I’d like a blow-dry.
- Vous faites aussi la barbe ?
Do you also do beards?
- Je voudrais une manucure.
I’d like a manicure.
6. When You’re Not Sure
Don’t panic — these phrases help you stay calm and polite:
- Je ne suis pas sûr(e) du style.
I’m not sure about the style.
- Qu’est-ce que vous me conseillez ?
What do you recommend?
- Est-ce que vous avez des photos ?
Do you have photos (of styles)?
- Vous pouvez m’expliquer, s’il vous plaît ?
Can you explain to me, please?
7. At the End – Polite Phrases to Finish
- Merci beaucoup, c’est très joli !
Thank you very much, it’s very nice!
- C’est exactement ce que je voulais.
It’s exactly what I wanted.
- Je reviendrai la prochaine fois.
I’ll come back next time.
- Bonne journée !
Have a nice day!
- À bientôt !
See you soon!
8. Prices and Payment
- Combien ça coûte ?
How much does it cost?
- Est-ce que je peux payer par carte ?
Can I pay by card?
- C’est un forfait ?
Is it a package deal?
- Est-ce que vous acceptez les pourboires ?
Do you accept tips?
Note: In France, tipping is not mandatory but always appreciated for good service.
9. When You Don’t Understand
- Pardon, vous pouvez répéter ?
Sorry, can you repeat?
- Je suis en train d’apprendre le français.
I’m learning French.
- Vous pouvez parler un peu plus lentement ?
Can you speak a bit more slowly?
Don’t be afraid to say you’re learning — most hairdressers will appreciate the effort and help you out!
Practice with Albert Learning
Want to practice these phrases in real-life simulations?
Albert Learning helps you:
- Practice beauty and salon conversations in roleplay sessions
- Improve listening and pronunciation with native trainers
- Get confident with everyday vocabulary for real life
- Join practical lessons like “French at the Hair Salon” or “Everyday French: Personal Care”
Try it now and walk into your next appointment like a pro!
Small Talk Builds Confidence
Even a short chat during a haircut or beauty appointment helps you:
- Practice real-life French
- Feel more at ease in daily situations
- Sound more natural and friendly
Keep a few phrases in your mind and try one or two new ones at your next salon visit. You’ll be surprised how much more comfortable and connected you feel!
