Pros 
Cons A Mixed Bag of Experiences: Decoding the Reviews of Burwood Hair by Steve and Tonia
Burwood Hair by Steve and Tonia presents a perplexing picture based on customer feedback. While some patrons praise its affordability and speed, a significant number report deeply unsatisfactory experiences, ranging from communication issues to outright damaging results. The salon, located at 200/212 Burwood Rd, Burwood NSW 2134, seems to be a gamble – potential savings could come at the cost of your desired hairstyle, or worse.
Here’s a breakdown of the concerns:
- Price Point: A recurring theme is the low cost of haircuts – often cited as "$20 haircut. Good value." This attract customers on budget.
- Speed & Experience: Some customers mention the stylists are "experienced, fast and reasonably priced", suggesting a capable team for basic cuts when communication is clear.
- The Communication Barrier: A substantial portion of negative feedback centres around language barriers. Multiple reviews detail issues with stylists allegedly not understanding English, leading to misinterpretations and ultimately, undesired haircuts.
- Aggressive Behaviour: Several reviewers explicitly mention aggressive attitudes from staff, including the owner. One review states the owner behaved in a "mocking manner," while another describes a stylist treating customers “aggressively.”
- Impact Beyond Aesthetics: One particularly troubling account details a negative result impacting a job opportunity, stating the poor haircut resulted in them not being hired for a company.
Colour Catastrophes and Chemical Concerns
The colour services at Burwood Hair by Steve and Tonia appear to be a major area of concern, with numerous reports of disastrous outcomes. A detailed review from a Chinese speaker illustrates a particularly upsetting experience with hair dye.
The customer brought their own dye (intended to produce a lavender/purple shade) but alleges the owner, reportedly in his 70s, failed to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This included:
- Insufficient Processing Time: The dye was applied for only 30 minutes instead of the recommended 60+ minutes, and without any heat application to enhance the colour development.
- Product Waste: The stylist allegedly wasted a significant portion of the customer’s purchased dye.
- Incorrect Application: For dark hair, additional dye and longer processing times are usually needed. This was ignored.
- The Result? Instead of the desired lavender, the customer’s hair was dyed yellow, and they were charged $250 despite the unsatisfactory outcome.
This experience echoes complaints of colour inaccuracies and damage to hair, highlighting a potential lack of expertise and a disregard for proper colouring techniques. Specifically the report that the owner is “unable to distinguish colours”.
Customer Service Under Fire: A Pattern of Disregard
Beyond technical mishaps, the customer service at Burwood Hair by Steve and Tonia is repeatedly criticised. A dominant issue appears to be a dismissive attitude from the owner, described as "very rude".
- Ignoring Requests: Customers report showing desired hairstyles via pictures (on their phones) which were ignored, and a basic, unwanted haircut was performed instead.
- Lack of Listening Skills: Several reviewers state their specific instructions were simply disregarded, leading to frustration and disappointment.
- Forced Payment: Even when unsatisfied, customers feel pressured into paying for substandard work.
These consistent complaints suggest a systemic problem with how Burwood Hair by Steve and Tonia regards its clients and handles concerns. The negative reports paint a picture of a salon where customer preferences are devalued and potentially, actively ignored.
Here’s a quick table summarising the service concerns:
| Concern | Frequency | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rude Owner | High | Dismissive, mocking behaviour, unwillingness to listen. |
| Communication Issues | High | Language barrier reducing successful communication of hairstyle requests |
| Ignoring Requests | Medium | Requests are dismissed and the stylist imposes their own style |
| Forced Payments | Low | Customers are pressured to pay despite unsatisfactory results |
A Family-Friendly Facade? Considering the Fine Print
While Burwood Hair by Steve and Tonia advertises as "Good for kids" as a facility by stating their salon is “Children” friendly, the overwhelmingly negative feedback regarding communication and customer service raises questions about whether they are truly equipped to handle clients of all ages, especially those who may be more sensitive when getting a haircut.
The focus on low prices may also be a trade-off. Lower overheads may equal lower skilled staff, and a lack of investment in professional development or quality products.
Potential customers should carefully weigh the potential benefits against the substantial risks highlighted in the reviews. It is crucial to consider if a $20 haircut is really worth the potential for a disastrous hairstyle and a negative experience. Thoroughly consider if the communal area would be safe and suitable for children if the report is accurate about the level of aggression displayed.
It is recommended to explore alternative salons in Burwood with a more consistent track record of positive customer experiences, even if they come at a higher price point.