The responses here are a revelation. I always feel awkward in salons. I don't like being touched, have to tell them to leave off the hand massage and make up touch up, and when I colored I really resented the hours (and hours and hours) it took, especially when I had babies at home.
I can manage the chat, but don't want to have a gushy relationship with my hairstylist, although I get that people do. If the salon is always busy with ladies gossiping, I'll have to really like my stylist or I'll switch.
It's heartening to know other people feel the same way (anyone in Raleigh, NC with a salon to recommend?)