Whether you think of a salon visit as a fun treat or a necessary chore, you'll want to get the best service (and hairstyle) possible, right? That's why we talked to the experts, Marco Pelusi, owner of Marco Pelusi Hair Studio, Jenny Balding, senior stylist at Cutler/Redken Salons, Whitney Olson, stylist at Warren Tricomi Los Angeles, and Rosie Acosta, salon manager at Warren Tricomi Los Angeles. They told us the secrets of the salon -- the best times to go, how to get that last-minute appointment when you're desperate, and much more!

Is through referrals. This is really how stylists get business. So ask around -- friends, family, even strangers on the street -- anyone whose hair you like. Find out where they go and when you make an appointment mention who referred you. Then, if you like your end result, pass along the love and refer them to others (your stylist will really appreciate it).

Saturday mornings. Stylists vary a bit on this, but the general consensus is to avoid Saturdays (their busiest day), especially Saturday mornings. Fridays are also less than ideal, since it's the end of the week and your hairdresser is most likely tired and looking forward to the weekend (think of how focused you are on a Friday afternoon, makes sense, right?).

Other bad times: The first appointment of the day, since the stylist hasn't settled in yet and could also be a little late. The last appointment is also not the best since the stylist will be tired and ready to go home. Lunchtime can also be difficult, since stylists, like the rest of us, can get cranky when they're hungry.

Early in the week (like a Tuesday or Wednesday) in either late morning or early afternoon. The stylist isn't tired but is settled into their routine, it's less busy so you'll get more time with the stylist, and it's easier to get a last-minute appointment. Try to aim for the second or third appointment of the day, that way the stylist is there and set up but not yet tired.

Schedule a consultation, especially if you're seeing a stylist for the first time. Most should do them for free, particularly in this economy. Bring in pictures as examples of what you want and talk it over. A good stylist should honestly tell you what will and won't work for your hair and explain how they can modify your pictures to give you the best cut or color possible.