Going Short? Think Before You Cut!

Impulsive girl who is cutting her own hair
Photo: Dreamstime
You are serious; you have had enough of your long hair and are longing for something that is more practical, lower maintenance, and just different. You think a short haircut is the answer. Wait! Before letting these scissors slice through your hair, think about it and make sure it is really what you want to do.
 
The cutting is done quickly, but the regret can take a very long time. Remember that the average number of inches that hair grows per month is 0.5.
 
Never cut your hair on an impulse
 
Take your time to make a decision and have a clear idea of what kind of hairstyle you want to go for.
 
If you're having a bad day, feeling depressed and out of balance, then get a pedicure, buy a new outfit, and visit a day spa. Make yourself feel good, but don't touch your hair no matter how much you want to. Sleep on it, and you will be glad you did.
 
What is your motivation?
 
Why is there a sudden urge for short hair? Again, make sure you are not planning a trip to the salon because you actually want to change your life or because your heart has been broken.
 
Once this is out of the way and you are sure that you are making the right decision and have slept on it a few times; you have given your friends and family a warning and gotten over their "Oh no, you cannot cut your beautiful hair" comments, it is time to pick a short hairstyle.
 
Your hairdresser will help you to find the right look, but if you want to be better prepared, then try a hairstyle simulation app. You can upload your own photo and play around with all imaginable looks before you even leave the house.
 
Woman with her hair in a pixie cut and wearing a denim shirt
Image: AI illustration
How radical are you?
 
A good way for a painless transition is to cut your hair in stages. You can start out with a shoulder-length or slightly longer style; the next step, maybe a few weeks later, could be a chin-length cut; and then finally, cut it as short as you dare. But, you might also want to get it done and enjoy the thrill of a radical hair transformation. You might want to make a statement about yourself and need a strong signal.
 
The day after
 
Once it is gone, you are likely to experience some emotions. You have had long hair for many years, and it may take a few days to adjust to the new length. The first morning is usually a crucial moment. You look into the mirror and see the new version of yourself. Hopefully, you will be overjoyed by the lightness of your sassy new look.
 
Side effect: “phantom hair”
 
For a while, you will still pour yourself a handful of shampoo and conditioner instead of the tiny amount that you need now. At first, you might scratch your shoulders with the hairbrush, starting to brush at the bottom of the tresses that are no longer there.
 
You'll try to roll strands around your finger when you realize they are gone. There will be many moments when the old habits come out and many laughs.
 
So, before you do anything … follow these steps to have a happy outcome:
 
1. Question your motives.
2. Beware the impulse.
3. Gather information.
4. Find your new hairstyle.
5. Sleep on it.
6. Sleep on it again.
7. Make your appointment.
8. Enjoy!
 
©Hairfinder.com
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