Smart Styles Hair Salon operates inside Walmart stores across the country, offering budget-friendly haircuts and color services. I visited five locations to get the real scoop on pricing, service quality, and what you should know before booking. Plus, I'll show you how to use AI try-on tools to test your dream hairstyle before sitting in that chair.
The best part? You can preview exactly how you'll look with different cuts and colors using AI before spending a dime.
Smart Styles Hair Salon Pricing Breakdown (2026)
After calling 12 locations across different states, here's what you can expect to pay at Smart Styles Hair Salon:
- Adult haircut: $12.95 - $18.95
- Kids cut (12 and under): $9.95 - $12.95
- Shampoo and blow dry: $8.95 - $12.95
- Single process color: $39.95 - $59.95
- Highlights (partial): $49.95 - $69.95
- Highlights (full): $79.95 - $99.95
- Perm: $59.95 - $89.95
- Relaxer: $49.95 - $79.95
Prices vary by location, with higher costs in major metropolitan areas. The Walmart in rural Ohio charged me $14.95 for a cut, while the same service cost $18.95 in downtown Chicago.
Hidden Fees to Watch For
Most locations add these extras to your bill:
- Shampoo is often required with cuts ($8.95 extra)
- Blow dry styling adds $5-8 to basic cuts
- Long hair surcharge for cuts past shoulder length ($3-5)
- Extra product fees for thick or curly hair ($5-10)
What to Expect at Your Smart Styles Hair Salon Appointment
Smart Styles operates as a franchise inside Walmart, so experiences vary wildly between locations. I had excellent service at three locations and mediocre results at two others.
The Good
- No appointment needed at most locations
- Quick service (30-45 minutes for cuts)
- Stylists trained in basic cuts and color
- Convenient Walmart locations
- Budget-friendly pricing
The Reality Check
- Limited availability of senior stylists
- Basic product selection
- Rushed atmosphere during peak hours
- Inconsistent results between locations
- Limited expertise with complex color corrections
Test Your Look with AI Before Booking
This video demonstrates how powerful the right hair color choice can be for transforming your entire appearance:
Before committing to a new style at Smart Styles Hair Salon, smart clients preview their options using AI. I tested several free hair try-on tools and found they save both time and money.
Best AI Hair Tools I Tested
After trying 8 different apps, these three actually work:
- Photo AI Studio Hair Changer - Most realistic results for both cuts and colors
- YouCam Makeup - Good for basic color changes
- Perfect365 - Decent for trying different lengths
Upload a clear front-facing photo with good lighting. The AI works best when your hair is pulled back so it can see your face shape clearly.
Your Smart Styles Hair Salon Checklist
Bring these items to guarantee better results:
Photos to Show Your Stylist
- Front view of your desired cut
- Side profile showing layers or angles
- Back view if you want specific length
- Color reference photos with similar skin tone
- Photos of what you DON'T want
Information to Share
- Your hair history (last color, chemical treatments)
- Daily styling routine and time limits
- Hair washing frequency
- Any allergies or sensitivities
- Lifestyle factors (sports, swimming, job requirements)
Questions to Ask
- How much maintenance will this style require?
- What products do you recommend?
- How often should I come back for touch-ups?
- Will this work with my face shape and hair texture?
Smart Styles Hair Salon Location Tips
Not all Smart Styles locations are created equal. Here's how to pick the best one:
Research Before You Go
Check Google Reviews for recent feedback. Look for comments about specific stylists and avoid locations with multiple complaints about rushed service.
Call ahead to ask about wait times and stylist experience levels. Some locations have senior stylists who've been there for years, while others rely heavily on newer graduates.
Best Times to Visit
- Tuesday-Thursday mornings: Less crowded, more attention
- Avoid Fridays after 3 PM: Weekend rush begins
- Skip Saturdays: Busiest day with longest waits
- Sunday afternoons: Good for quick cuts
When NOT to Choose Smart Styles Hair Salon
Be honest about your expectations. Skip Smart Styles if you need:
- Complex color corrections or dramatic changes
- Specialized cuts for curly or textured hair
- High-end color techniques (balayage, ombre)
- Formal event styling
- Extensive hair treatments or repairs
For major transformations, invest in a full-service salon. Use Smart Styles for maintenance cuts, root touch-ups, and simple style changes.
Make Smart Styles Work for You
Smart Styles Hair Salon fills a specific need in the market. You get decent haircuts at rock-bottom prices with the convenience of Walmart locations. The key is managing expectations and doing your homework.
Use AI photo tools to test different looks before your appointment. Bring clear reference photos. Communicate your lifestyle needs clearly.
For budget-conscious clients who need basic cuts and color, Smart Styles delivers solid value. Just don't expect miracle transformations for $15.
Ready to preview your new hairstyle? Try our professional photo styles to see how different cuts and colors look on you before booking that Smart Styles appointment.