Getting a new hairstyle can be truly transformative. Whether you’re going through a breakup, looking for a mental health reset, or just want to mix things up, changing up your hair is a great way to make sure things never get dull. Of course, the first step is to find a trained and trustworthy stylist. An ornament is one thing and a complete change of cut and color is another.
Be sure to find as much inspiration online as possible – show it to your stylist on your phone or print it out and take it to your cut. Here you will find everything you need to know before changing your look and getting a new hairstyle.
Don’t focus on spending as little as possible
When you’re cutting half an inch or just getting rid of dead ends, it’s not a big deal to spend money at your local salon. But if you’re getting a whole new look, that takes skill and experience, so don’t worry about splurging on $100+ cuts—maintaining that cut will be a lot easier than the initial main cut when changing up your look.
2. Check the review websites
There’s nothing like a good client’s testimonial to help you determine if the stylist is right for you. It’s also the best way to avoid an irreversible nightmare that will force you to wear a wig for weeks to come. Search Yelp, Google, and any other reputable review site.
3. Use an app to see what your makeover will look like
Sometimes we have an idea in mind, but it doesn’t really go with our skin tone, face shape or style. Using a hairstyle visualizer will help take the stress out of changing your hairstyle to something extreme. You can walk you through it and figure out what will look the best – thank goodness for technology! Consider one of these Apple or Android compatible apps.
5. Book a consultation
This is a great way to dip your toes in the water without cutting yourself. A consultation should usually be included as part of the cut, but you can always visit a stylist beforehand. For example, consider booking it with a blow dryer, and after talking with your stylist, you can determine if you’re more comfortable seeing it for a cut or color.
6. Stand your ground
Sometimes a stylist will think they know best what will look best on you. But ultimately it is your part and your decision. If you let someone talk you into it, you may not end up satisfied with the end result and are simply giving in to what someone else wants, someone other than you.
7. Consider your hair texture and other features.
If your hair is fine or thin, layers and highlights may be best. This can add fullness and dimension. Coarse, coarse hair may work better in a medium style rather than extremely short or long. A short hairstyle will look completely different on fine hair than on thick hair.
8. Consider the shape of your face
Your hair should flatter your features, so don’t be afraid to look in the mirror and see what shape your face is. If you have a very angular face, a softer, more flowing cut may complement you more. If you have a round face, consider an edgier look or an asymmetrical angle to create some balance.
9. Your hair routine at home
Sure, when you’re washed and refreshed by a stylist at the salon, you’re bound to come out looking and feeling like a supermodel. But how easy is it to recreate that look at home without the help of a stylist? Your new hairstyle should match your styling routine. And if you have to commit to changing that routine, it’s something to think about and accept beforehand.
10. Before a cut, consider new products.
Perhaps the reason your hair is flat and has lost its va-va-voom factor is that you are using the wrong products or need to switch to a higher quality brand. Drugstore options are not good and may contain cheap and harmful ingredients like sulfates and parabens. Also, remember that oil can seal in moisture, but it doesn’t actually provide hydration. If you suffer from dry or limp hair, remember to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner before applying any hair oil products.
11. Recognize that you may need to change your makeup.
Changing your hair is an important decision and it may mean that you also have to change your cosmetics to avoid conflicts. For example, coloring or highlighting your hair may make you want to change the color scheme of your makeup. Having a cut that suddenly draws attention to your cheekbones or eyes means you may need to change your blush, eyeshadow, or mascara.
