Personal Care

Hairdressers and Beauty Services in the Netherlands: A Guide for Expats

7 min read For Expats in the Netherlands

Keeping up with your personal grooming routine is an important part of feeling settled and confident in a new country. For expats in the Netherlands, finding reliable hairdressers, barbers, and beauty services can be a bit daunting, especially with potential language barriers and different cultural approaches to style. This guide will walk you through the types of salons and services available, how to find trusted professionals, and what to expect when booking your next hair or beauty appointment in your new Dutch home.

Finding a Hairdresser or Barber (Kapster/Kapper)

Whether you need a simple trim or a complete hair transformation, there are plenty of options.

1. Recommendations are Key

  • Expat Communities: Ask for recommendations in local expat Facebook groups or online forums. Many expats share positive experiences with English-speaking stylists.
  • Friends and Colleagues: If you have Dutch or international friends, they can offer invaluable insights into local salons.

2. Types of Salons

You'll find a range of establishments from budget-friendly chains to high-end boutiques.

Local & Independent Salons

These smaller, often family-run businesses can offer a more personal touch. They might be found in neighbourhood shopping streets. Language might sometimes be a barrier, but many stylists in urban areas have experience with international clients.

  • Pros: Personal service, community feel.
  • Cons: English proficiency varies.

International & High-End Salons

In larger cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, you'll find salons specifically catering to expats or with a more international clientele. These often have English-speaking staff and may offer more trend-driven styling.

  • Pros: English speakers, diverse styling expertise, modern techniques.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive.

3. Online Booking & Reviews

  • Treatwell.nl: This popular platform allows you to find and book appointments for hair and beauty services. You can filter by location, service, and often see reviews, which can indicate English proficiency.
  • Google Maps: Search "kapper [your city]" or "hairdresser [your city]" and check reviews. Look for mentions of English-speaking staff.

Common Hair Services and What to Expect

Standard services are available, but communication is key to achieving your desired look. For detailed pricing information, please refer to our dedicated 'Cost of Hair and Beauty Services' article.

  • Haircuts (Knippen): Expect a wash, cut, and blow-dry. Be specific with your requests; bringing reference photos is highly recommended.
  • Colouring (Verven): Services like full-head colour, highlights (folies), balayage, and root touch-ups (uitgroei) are common. A consultation before a major colour change is always a good idea.
  • Styling (Föhnen/Stylen): Blow-dries and updos are available for special occasions.
  • Men's Barber Services: Barbershops are plentiful, offering traditional shaves and stylish cuts.

Communication is Key!

Always bring reference photos of the style you want. This visually bridges any language gaps and helps ensure you and your stylist are on the same page.

Beauty Treatments: Nails, Facials, and Waxing

Beyond hair, the Netherlands has a thriving beauty industry offering a full spectrum of services.

  • Nail Salons: Widely available for manicures, pedicures, gel nails, and acrylics. Asian-run nail salons are common and often offer competitive prices.
  • Facials and Skincare: Beauty parlours (schoonheidssalon) offer various facial treatments, from basic cleansing to advanced anti-aging.
  • Hair Removal: Waxing (harsen), threading, and laser hair removal services are readily accessible. You'll find dedicated waxing salons and beauty parlours.
  • Massages and Wellness: Many beauty salons or dedicated spas offer relaxing massages (e.g., Swedish, deep tissue) and other wellness treatments.

Where to Find Beauty Services

  • Beauty Salons (Schoonheidssalon): For facials, waxing, and general skincare.
  • Nail Studios: Dedicated to nail care.
  • Day Spas/Wellness Centres: For a more comprehensive range of treatments including massages, saunas, and full beauty packages.
  • Drogisterijen (Drugstores): While not offering services, stores like Kruidvat and Etos sell a wide range of beauty products and cosmetics for at-home care.

Costs and Payment

Prices for hair and beauty services vary, as detailed in our 'Cost of Hair and Beauty Services' guide. Payment is typically by debit card (PIN), but some smaller, independent salons may accept cash. Credit card acceptance is less common.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands but is appreciated for good service. A tip of 5-10% or rounding up the bill is customary.
  • Booking: Always book appointments in advance, especially for popular stylists or weekend slots.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

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