What to Expect at Your First Hair & Beauty Appointment at Aroha Salon, Edinburgh

Before Your Visit

Great results begin before you even walk through the door. When you book with Aroha, you'll have a chance to mention your hair type, current colour, and any concerns — either on the phone or when you arrive. This helps us prepare and ensure we have the right products and time allocated for you.

We recommend saving a few inspiration images (Pinterest is perfect for this) that capture the kind of look you're going for. You don't need to know exactly what you want — that's what we're here for — but having a visual reference helps your stylist understand the direction you're imagining.

When You Arrive

You'll find Aroha at 93 Newcraighall Road, with free on-site parking right outside — so there's no need to rush or circle for a space. Newcraighall train station is directly across the road too, making us easy to reach from across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

When you come in, you'll be greeted by one of our team and offered a tea or coffee while you get settled. The salon has a calm, unhurried atmosphere — we're not a conveyor belt. You'll never feel like you're being rushed through.

The Consultation

Every appointment at Aroha — whether it's a cut and colour or a beauty treatment — begins with a proper consultation. This isn't a tick-box exercise. Your stylist will sit with you, listen carefully, and take the time to understand not just what you want today, but how your hair behaves, your lifestyle, and how much upkeep you're realistically happy with.

For colour clients especially, a strand test or skin allergy test may be carried out at this stage — particularly important if you're new to colour or haven't been coloured in a while. This is standard best practice and ensures your safety as well as the best possible result.

"The consultation changed everything for me. I'd been getting the same haircut for years out of habit — Connor took one look at my face shape and suggested something completely different. I should have trusted a professional years ago."

Your Treatment

Once your consultation is complete and you're both aligned on the plan, the real magic begins. Whether you're in for a precision cut, a full balayage, shellac nails, or a lash treatment, our team approaches every service with the same care and skill.

We work with premium products that are kind to your hair and skin. You'll never feel like anything is being rushed — some colour appointments take time, and we use that time well. Don't be surprised if we suggest a conditioning treatment alongside your colour; it makes a significant difference to the final result and the longevity of your shade.

Throughout your appointment, your stylist will check in with you on everything — from how the gown sits to whether you'd like another coffee. This is your time, and we treat it that way.

After Your Appointment

Before you leave, your stylist will walk you through how to maintain your look at home — which products they used, how to style it yourself, and when you should ideally come back. For colour clients, this advice is particularly valuable; knowing how to care for your colour between visits can add weeks of vibrancy to your results.

If there's anything you're unsure about once you're home — or if you want to make changes — don't hesitate to call us on 0131 609 3202. We'd always rather have a conversation than have you leave feeling anything less than brilliant.