Essential Questions to Ask Before Getting a New Haircut

Getting a new haircut is a big decision for many women, and it’s usually as exciting as it is terrifying. If you feel that it’s time for a hair makeover, these are the questions you need to ask yourself before visiting your favourite scissor sister.

(Courtesy whenheartsareyoung.tumblr.com)

Why do I want a haircut?

Haircuts can be contagious – a bit like flu! One mate gets it and pretty soon she’s passed it on to everyone in your circle. You’re allowed to get excited, but then go home and think about it long and hard. If you feel that the new cut will make you happier and give you confidence, then go ahead, but don’t base your decision on someone else’s decision.

Do I know what I want?

As with most things in life, it’s important to do some research so you’re prepared. Don’t be hasty about your choice, because spontaneous and haircut have at best, a tempestuous relationship. Find a picture of your hair crush and take it with you to the salon, so your hairdresser knows what kind of look you want. Also, bear in mind that you dream do may not completely suit you, so be open to suggestions from the professional.

What shape is my face?

Not all cuts suit all face shapes, so it’s important to figure out if you’re a round, square, oval or heart? At the same time, look at your forehead, neck, shoulders and complexion, as these all influence the type of cut that you should get. The heart can experiment with bangs, the square is best with long layers, the round suits a straight style and the lucky oval can have most cuts. If you’re not quite sure of your shape, have a virtual haircut. Visit a hairdressing website that allows you to upload a picture of yourself, and then you can test a variety of different styles to see what works best.

What type of hair do I have?

From big, bouncy curls to poker straight strands, the thickness and texture of your locks will work better with certain cuts. All hair behaves differently, so be sure to consult with your hairdresser before making any decisions.

What’s my personal style?

Are you sporty, classic, trendy, safe, or do you exude sex appeal? Some cuts are risky and only certain people can successfully wear them, so check that your new cut suits your personality and your wardrobe.

What kind of lifestyle do I have?

A sedentary person and a fairly active one should get different haircuts. Think about what’s practical and how much time you’ll have to maintain your hair. For example, if you’re sporty, don’t go so short that you can’t tie your hair up in a ponytail.

How important is sleep to you?

There are wash-and-go styles, and then there are high-maintenance cuts. Ask your hairdresser how much time you’ll need in the morning, and if your snooze is more important than your style, perhaps you should consider something simple and easy.

Can I afford to maintain it?

You’re drooling about that cute pixie cut you saw in your favourite magazine, and now you want it. Before you jump in head first, you need to realise that there are specific cuts that need more upkeep than others. As a general rule, the shorter the style, the more often you’ll have to return to the salon for a trim. Short hair, on average, should be cut every 4-6 weeks, and longer styles every 8-10 weeks. If you’re still in love and your bank balance will allow it, then go for it!

(Courtesy ahouseinthehills.com)

Can I do this at home?

Everyone has experienced a haircut where you walk out of the salon feeling like a million dollars, until you’ve had a night of sleep (or that first hair wash!) and then your perfectly coiffed cut falls flat. Unless you have your stylist on speed dial, you’re on your own, so ensure that he or she shows you how to achieve the same look at home. It’s also important to know if you have all the right tools, whether it’s wax, tongs, rollers or hairspray.

Do I trust my hairdresser?

You may have been going to the same person for years, or you could be going on recommendation and trying someone new. Either way you need to trust them, particularly if you’re braving a different style. Find a hairdresser that will cut your hair to its strengths, and make sure that you communicate effectively or it could lead to disappointment, or worse, disaster.

What if I hate my new hair?

Everyone has high hopes for the outcome of their new haircut, but you should at least prepare yourself that your new do may not come out like you imagined it would. Will you wait it out? Will you find another hairdresser to tweak the style? Will you head to the store and buy a wig? Or, will you wear a hat for the next three months?

Don’t get stuck in a style rut. If you’ve been doing the same blow wave for the last decade, then it’s time for a change. They say that a haircut is as good as a holiday, and while I’d much rather be sipping on a caipirinha in Copacabana than sitting in a salon in Sydney, there is undoubtedly something revitalising about a new hairdo. Regular cuts are good for your hair, and your confidence, they keep you trendy and make you feel fantastic. If you’ve taken the plunge and you love your new style – well done – if you’re not completely smitten, then don’t worry. The really great thing about hair: it grows back.