How much notice should a salon cancellation policy ask for?
Most hair and nail salons ask for 24 hours. Color, extensions and anything that blocks two or three hours justify 48, because a gap that size is harder to refill on the day. Pick one number and handle exceptions privately; a policy with five conditions is one nobody reads.
Can I charge 100% for a no-show?
Many salons write it. Whether you can collect it depends on two things: a card on file or a deposit taken at booking, and the consumer-protection rules where you trade — some places cap cancellation charges at a reasonable estimate of the loss. Check locally, then write only what you can enforce.
What is the difference between a deposit and a cancellation fee?
A deposit is paid at booking and is deducted from the bill when the client comes in; cancel late or fail to show, and it is kept. A cancellation fee is charged after the fact, which is only possible with a card on file or at the next visit. For new clients a deposit is far easier to enforce than a fee.
Where should the policy appear so clients actually see it?
Three places: the booking page or a “Policies” section on your website, the confirmation message the booking system sends, and a sign at the front desk. Same rule, three lengths — this page assembles all three — and a client who read it before booking is one you can charge without a fight.