When Pokémon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon (USUM) launched on the Nintendo 3DS, they brought a massive expansion to player customization. Among the most popular features was the salon system, allowing players to completely overhaul their trainer's look. Usum hairstyles quickly turned into an online phenomenon, sparking lookbooks, cosplay trends, and dedicated community discussions across social media platforms like Reddit's Pokémon community.
If you're trying to unlock specific cuts, colors, or figure out where to visit the stylist in Alola, you're in the right place. This guide covers every available style, salon locations across the region, and how to pick the right look for your trainer.
Where to Find Salons in Pokémon USUM
You can't change your hair right at the start of your journey. Alola's salons are integrated into the island trial journey, meaning you'll need to progress past the first major town before unlocking styling services.
Each salon across the four main islands offers unique base cuts, color treatments, and boutique clothing options. Prices vary depending on how late-game the island is, costing anywhere from 500 to 5,000 Pokedollars per visit.
- Hau'oli City (Melemele Island): Your first stop for basic cuts like bangs, bobs, and short crops. Perfect for early-game makeovers.
- Heahea City (Akala Island): Introduces longer locks, waves, and more adventurous layering options.
- Konikoni City (Akala Island): Features specialized styling tailored for a chic, boutique aesthetic.
- Malie City (Ula'ula Island): Offers traditional and edgy cuts that draw heavy inspiration from regional styles.
- Seafolk Village (Poni Island): The final hub, unlocking the most complex braids, side-swept styles, and voluminous looks.
Breaking Down Male and Female Hair Options
Player gender dictates the available base styles at the salon, though both avatars share access to a robust palette of hair dyes.
Female Trainer Options
The female protagonist features some of the most dramatic transformations in the game. From simple shoulder-length bobs to intricate twin tails and voluminous curls, the options let you tailor your trainer's appearance to match your personal style or mimic iconic characters.
Popular choices include:
- Bob with Bangs: A clean, classic look that stays neat during cutscenes.
- Medium Waves: Adds texture and movement, making it a favorite for players who switch hats frequently.
- Braided Crowns: Intricate styling that frames the face and pairs exceptionally well with traditional Alolan outfits.
Male Trainer Options
While male avatar hair choices have historically been limited in earlier generations, USUM expanded options significantly. You can choose from slicked-back undercut styles, messy bedhead looks, and tighter crops.
Popular choices include:
- Short Crop: Clean-cut and professional, keeping the hat sitting snugly.
- Slicked Back: Gives your trainer a sharp, sophisticated edge reminiscent of modern streetwear.
- Messy Waves: A relaxed look that leans into the tropical vibe of the Alola region.
The Role of Hair Color and Dye
Getting the right cut is only half the battle. USUM introduced an expanded color wheel at every salon, letting you completely transform your trainer's aesthetic with a fresh dye job.
To dye your hair, you'll need to pay a separate fee alongside your haircut. The color palette includes natural shades like Honey Blonde, Dark Black, and Honey Brown, alongside fantasy options like Pink, Blue, and White. Keep in mind that your eyebrow color automatically matches your chosen hair dye, ensuring your character's face doesn't look mismatched during dramatic story close-ups.
How to Coordinate Hair with Hats and Outfits
One of the most common frustrations for players is how certain hairstyles interact with headwear. In Alola, you can choose to wear a hat or go bareheaded, but you cannot wear certain hats with oversized buns or voluminous ponytails without the game forcing a specific hat-hair variant.
If you want absolute control over your look, consider these styling tips:
- Match Undertones: If you're wearing bright tropical shirts from the Malie City boutique, cool hair dyes like blue or silver create a striking visual contrast.
- Watch the Brim: Hats push hair down. Shorter styles and bangs often look cleaner under baseball caps, while long braids or waves shine when you ditch the hat entirely.
- Plan Your Budget: Changing both your hair cut and hair color gets expensive. Farm battles at the Battle Tree or use the Rotom Loto prize money boosts to keep your wallet flush.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you change your hair color without getting a haircut?
Yes. When you sit down at the salon chair, the attendant gives you separate options for cutting your hair, styling your bangs, and dyeing your hair. You can choose just to dye it without altering the length or cut.
Why are certain hairstyles locked when I visit a new salon?
Most hairstyles are available once you unlock the respective island's salon. However, some ultra-rare styles or specific color tints require you to have advanced further into the game or possess specific items.
Does hair customization affect gameplay or stats?
No. Hairstyles are purely cosmetic and have zero impact on your Pokémon's stats, affection, or your trainer's progression through the island challenge.
Can you change your eye color alongside your hair?
While USUM lets you wear colored contact lenses at the boutique dress rooms or specific makeup counters, hair dye changes your eyebrows automatically, but eye color requires a separate wardrobe selection.
