At a Glance
- Chris Appleton, celebrity hairstylist, charges up to $100K for a single haircut.
- The fee includes travel, taxes, and agent commissions.
- Appleton also released a book revealing his struggles and career journey.
Why it matters: The story shows the hidden costs behind celebrity beauty and the personal sacrifices of high-profile stylists.
Chris Appleton is cashing in on his sought-after skills. The celebrity hairstylist, whose clients include Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, revealed the jaw-dropping amount he once charged for a haircut – and what it entailed.
The High Cost of a Celebrity Cut
Appleton appeared on the U Up? podcast to answer a simple question: What would you charge for a haircut? His answer was a mix of humor and honesty. He began, “I’ve charged everything from $100 back in the day to…” before getting coy about the highest amount he’s charged a client.
“Oh God, like $100K,” he confessed. “But that was to travel. That was a whole situation. That sort of thing is a one-off.” Appleton then revealed the real truth behind a big paycheck. “Don’t forget, then you get taxed 50 percent, then your agent takes something. It gets dwindled down.”
What the Fee Includes
Appleton’s $100K figure is not just a haircut. It covers a range of services and costs that go beyond the salon chair. Below is a simplified breakdown based on his explanation.
| Item | Approximate Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Travel & Logistics | $100K | Includes travel expenses for the stylist and client, accommodation, and on-site preparation |
| Taxes | 50% | Appleton’s earnings are subject to a 50% tax rate |
| Agent Commission | Unknown | The agent takes a portion of the fee, reducing the stylist’s take-home pay |
The table shows that the headline figure is inflated by travel and other logistics. Once taxes and agent fees are deducted, the actual amount that reaches Appleton’s bank account is considerably lower.
Inside the $100K Haircut
Appleton’s explanation made it clear that a high-profile haircut is a multi-disciplinary operation. The process typically involves:
- Travel arrangements for both the stylist and the client, often across international borders.
- Premium products and tools that are not part of a standard salon kit.
- Time and expertise: A celebrity cut can take several hours, sometimes including styling for a photoshoot or public appearance.
- Security and logistics: High-profile clients require additional security measures and logistical support.
When Appleton said, “That was to travel,” he meant that the majority of the cost was associated with getting to the client’s location and ensuring everything ran smoothly.
Appleton’s Book Reveals More Than Just Hair
Beyond the glitter of celebrity haircuts, Appleton has opened up about his personal journey in his new book, Your Roots Don’t Define You. The book covers:
- His darkest times, including being bullied as a child.
- The challenges he faced while building a career in a competitive industry.
- A brief marriage to actor Lukas Gage.
- Tips for readers to transform their own lives and become anyone they want to be.
Appleton said he wanted readers to “absolutely know that everything I posted on social media was a lie to an extent, because it was just a version of the bigger truth.” He hopes the book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a celebrity hairstylist and inspires others.
What the Clients Pay For
Appleton’s clients, such as Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, pay for more than a haircut. They pay for:
- A personalized experience tailored to their brand.
- Consistent quality that matches their public image.
- The convenience of a stylist who can travel and adapt to their schedule.
While the headline price is striking, the actual service delivered is a blend of artistry, logistics, and personal branding.
Behind the Scenes of a Celebrity Hairstylist
Appleton’s career is a testament to the hard work that goes into maintaining a reputation in the beauty industry. He explained that:
- His early days involved charging as low as $100.
- Over time, he built a portfolio that attracted high-profile clients.
- The transition from a local stylist to a global name required significant networking and consistent results.
He also highlighted that the image of a celebrity hairstylist on Instagram is often a polished version of reality. The “raw, authentic, real version” is what he aims to share through his book and public appearances.
Key Takeaways
- Chris Appleton’s $100K haircut includes travel, taxes, and agent fees.
- The real take-home pay is significantly less after deductions.
- Appleton’s book offers insight into his personal challenges and career path.
- Celebrity hairstyling is more than a haircut; it’s a comprehensive service that supports a client’s public image.
Appleton’s story, shared on January 27, 2026, sheds light on the economics of celebrity beauty and the personal stories behind the glamour.
