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Style > Beauty

5 Things You Need to Know Before Getting A Haircut

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Toronto chapter.

If you’ve ever had long hair before, you probably already know that one day you’ll wake up and start to notice just how high maintenance your lengthy do’ actually is.

Between the multiple bottles of shampoo and conditioner you go through every month, the amount of time it takes to style your hair just right, the many things your hair decides to get caught on every day, and the sheer weight of all, it’s no wonder why thoughts of cutting your hair float around in your head all day! If you’re anything like me, then cutting your hair after it’s been long for a considerable amount of time is no joke. SO much thought has to go into it all—sometimes it just feels like too much pressure.

 

Have no fear, lovelies! Let’s take the fear and uncertainty out getting our hair cut, and think of it more as an exciting way to get a fresh start—one haircut can turn into the best decision you’ve made all year, and that potential is something worth being optimistic about! Excited yet? Here are the five things you need to know before getting that haircut:

1) Do you really want to do it?

 

Well, it’s a question worth asking multiple times! Sometimes we can go through phases and think, hey I’d love to get a pixie cut, but a couple of days later you’ll rethink your idea and come to the conclusion that it isn’t quite your style, and that’s okay! Do some soul searching. If you find that you’re not comfortable with it, then don’t sweat it. If you’re thinking of making a drastic change, like cutting six inches of hair off, you’ll want to take the time to think it through. Sure hair grows back, but it’ll be a good 6 months give or take, before it grows out! 

2) The Hairstyle You’re Going For

 

Choices, choices, choices, there are so many of them! Do some research and figure out how short you want to go, and the overall look you’re going for too. To find hairstyle inspiration, definitely check out Pinterest, they have amazing pictures and some gorgeous hair colour inspiration too! Another way to find some hairspiration is to Google what hairstyles are trending in celebrity circles, that way you’ll know what’s in season and in style. 

Here’s a tip to remember while you do your research: keep your face shape in mind! Finding hairstyles that compliment your face shape make all the difference.

Here’s a chart for reference:

 

There are also celebrity face charts all over the internet, so if you have trouble figuring out what shape your face is, they can be a really helpful resource! Another cool thing about using celebrities to find a hairstyle for yourself, is that once you find a celebrity with the same face shape, you can basically go through their whole hair history and see what styles worked for them to give you some direction.

3) What You’re Willing to Spend

 

Hey, in this case, money really does matter! Haircuts can be pricey, especially if you want them done by a pro. If you only want a trim, you can definitely try and DIY—or just hit up one of those cheaper hair salons that charge around 10-20 dollars for a cut. You also might want to check out any hairstyling colleges or schools in the area, a lot of them offer reduced prices since you’ll be getting your haircut from a stylist-in-training.

It’s important to remember that quality comes with a heftier price though. If you’re willing to shell out the extra cash, make sure you do your research! Find a stylist at a reputable salon with good reviews online. Yelp is always a good place to start! Ask around for recommendations from friends too since firsthand experiences are the most trustworthy. If you’re unable to find a good review, I know that some hair salons have stylists that range from a level 1-5 skill/experience level. Price goes up with the skill level, so if you’d rather pay for the experience level you need, this might be a good way!

4) To Colour or Not to Colour

 

I know, colouring your hair can be on the pricey side of things, but if you think about it, colouring your hair while it’s long can cost even more—an arm and a leg at least! (Welcome to the wonderful world of my justifications for spending money, LOL). But really, sometimes when you’re looking to change up your style, colouring your hair is one of the best ways to do it. Whether it’s a balayage, an ombre, or a full colour, it’s the perfect way to refresh your look!

5) Hair Grows Back!

 

Sometimes, a new haircut takes some getting used to, so if you don’t end up loving it once you step out of the salon door, give it a couple of days to grow on you. But if you’re really not into it, don’t stress out! Just remember that hair grows back, and you’ll be showing off your lucious Rapunzel-like locks in no time. Definitely be proud that you took a risk and made a style change, because it isn’t the easiest thing to do. 

I hope this guide has helped you take the pressure out of deciding to get a haircut! Just know that whatever style or colour you choose, I’m sure you’ll be slaying it all over the place! Own your style and be fearless—you’ll be good at it, I promise.

 

 

 

Photo Sources

http://thewaytonaturalhair.com/2015/01/12/tips-for-finding-the-right-sty…

http://www.yourtango.com/2014219119/10-signs-time-to-let-go-your-frozen-…

http://gifrific.com/aladdin-and-abu-thinking/

http://westolethetarts.blogspot.ca/

http://www.phoebeencarnacion.com/fashion/hairstyle-face-shape-winner-of-…

http://calacanis.com/2015/01/

http://gifsoup.com/view/2846374/hair-flip.html

http://www.popsugar.com/entertainment/photo-gallery/35947698/image/35948…

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2014/06/04/fashionable-teenagers_n_5446497….

I'm a Shakespeare loving, eyebrow obsessing beauty junkie, who adores all things having to do with Harry Potter, delicious food, and good music. After 4 years I've finally graduated from the oh so wonderful, University of Toronto and am currently working toward a Masters of Information degree.  I'd like to think of myself as a modern day romantic with an unquenchable wanderlust. My current dream is to one day go on an international library hopping adventure! For an aspiring special collections librarian, that is definitely at the top of my list post-graduation. I am a frequent visitor of the ROM and love going see the Nutcracker during the holidays. As a Decemeber baby myself, I absolutely love the winter time, the snow, the holiday cheer, and the half coffee half hot chocolates I get from Timmys. As for music, my likes are pretty much across the board! From John Mayer to Sam Smith, Debussy to Duke Ellington, Xtina to today's pop hits, you'll find me somewhere in the middle.On a regular day, you'll probably find me at home with my dog Kacy on a Mad Men binge, or catching up with Once Upon a Time, The Good Wife, How To Get Away With Murder and Suits- ps. I love netflix!