While the quality of drugstore dyes has improved, Harry says there is always going to be a limit to what you can do color-wise at home. Many people choose box dye based solely on the photo on the front, because they like the model's hair color.

But the reality is, at home you can only change your hair color up two levels or down two levels. And what is a level? Basically, it's the number that corresponds to how dark or light your natural hair color is.

You can go from dark brown level 3 to light brown level 5 at home, for example. But if you have dark brown hair level 3 and you want to go very light blonde level 9 , you'll want to go to a salon.

Decorate and furnish the space. Your salon should reflect your tastes and create a soothing, comfortable atmosphere.

Light, soft greens and blues are good wall color choices, and plants are great decorative features. Brainstorm potential looks by creating a mood board with colors, images, and design elements that inspire you.

Purchase a chair, products, cutting and styling supplies, and other equipment. Purchase scissors and razors, and stock up on shampoo, conditioner, toner, hair spray, hair gel, and hair mousse.

You can buy hair products at a beauty supply store or online. If you'll offer hair coloring and extensions, you'll need to stock up on products for these services as well.

Set up a website and social media profiles. Your website should include images of your space, your address and contact information, and information about the services you offer.

Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms allow you to promote your services with before and after pictures, hashtags, and unique or quirky statuses that reflect your personality.

When you're just starting out, ask your friends, family, and other members of your social network to like your page. Part 2 of Price your services competitively.

Add up your operating expenses including products, equipment, mortgage or rent, and utilities , taxes, costs to maintain permits and licenses, and any outstanding loans.

Figure out how much money you need to make to cover these costs and maintain a profit margin of at least 10 to 20 percent. While reasonable prices and discounts can build your client base, you need to charge enough to cover your overhead and generate profit.

If you undersell your services or offer too many discounts, your profits could take a hit. Offer basic services that target your local market.

At a minimum, your services should include cuts, washes, and styling. However, you might want to focus on inexpensive basic cuts in less affluent locations.

Include coloring and extensions to broaden your clientele. Hair coloring and extensions can add variety and help you book more appointments.

Keep in mind that your local jurisdiction might regulate the use of chemicals or require additional permits. Offer additional services, such as facials, make up styling, and hair removal.

Additional services allow clients to patronize your business in between cuts, giving you more opportunities to make money.

If necessary, invest in a class to develop these skills yourself or hire staff to help you provide these services. Display and sell retail products.

Retail is a quick and easy way to generate revenue. A business license allows you to purchase products from wholesalers, which you can then sell at a marked up price.

Part 3 of Offer a rewards program to attract loyal customers. Hand out punch cards that offer a free cut, make up styling, or facial after 10 visits.

You could also offer clients points for every dollar they spend. Be sure to tell your customers about your rewards program the first time they visit.

If not, you could create a quick spreadsheet that tracks customer spending. List customers in the first column, enter their purchases into the next columns, and total their spending in the last column.

Create a customer referral program. Word of mouth is the primary way most small businesses grow their customer base.

Obtain a federal tax identification number from the Internal Revenue Service. This number is the business equivalent of your Social Security number for reporting personal income tax.

Designate your salon space inside your home, taking into consideration adequate lighting and access to power and water sources.

If possible, keep your living and business areas exclusive and maintain a separate entrance. This increases your potential business tax deductions and your family's privacy during working hours.

Equip your hair salon with the necessary supplies and equipment, including an adjustable chair, full-length mirror, handheld mirror, shampoo basin, smocks, scissors and brushes.

You'll also need a phone and a paper or electronic calendar for appointments. I can color your hair much faster and more thoroughly that you can yourself.

But you have to know what you are doing. Nowadays I go to Sally and get my Ion hair color and their developer for sensitive scalps which works like a charm!

Ion also has a fantastic conditioner. However, if your hair is damaged, breaking, splitting, and not shiny then there is clearly something wrong.

Another important thing to mention is that there is no reason to lie to your stylist about what is currently in your hair. This creates all kinds of problems and can waste your time and mine.