Great article. I can only add one little twist: seek a GOOD hair professional and stick with him/her. This way, you become kinda friends, and that can give you nice benefits. Mine just got thrilled when I trusted my hair to her for a long time already and loves the way I explore the various things I want to try out with my hair. Because of that, she offered me products for a discount. You don't get those if you mess around visiting different hair stylists.
Discussion is key, telling directly what you think, feel or doubt about, in a respectful manner. I've been honest to her, and while that sometimes made sticky situations, it's best to just be honest. Even if that means she did a lousy job and you tell that with all the customers in the salon hearing it...
