Think twice before making a big change to your hair.Flickr / Beth
A dramatic haircut can refresh much more than your appearance. Chopping off hair is bold, independent, and freeing. Consider Audrey Hepburn’s iconic haircut in "Roman Holiday," or Frida Kahlo’s real-life decision to crop her hair soon after divorcing Diego Rivera.
For many people, getting a different style feels freeing and invigorating. However, ensuring the time is right for a change is wise.
To learn more about making thoughtful hair decisions, INSIDER spoke to several professional stylists. Arsen Gurgov, founder and owner of the Arsen Gurgov Salon, Jen Atkin, celebrity hairstylist and creator of OUAI Haircare, and Franck Izquierdo, co-founder of IGK Hair Care, all shared their wisdom.
Think it through
Are you ready for a pixie cut?Frazer Harrison/Getty Images Should you trade those long, dark tresses for a bleached pixie cut? Give it some thought. In general, getting a major haircut on a whim spells regret. As Gurgov explained, dramatic haircuts might completely change a person’s appearance, so that deserves some serious thought.
Wait a few days
Jen Atkin says to wait it out.Rachel Murray/Getty Images Big life events often precede big style transformations, but this doesn’t mean you have to rush into anything. "Don't make any emotional hair decisions!" said Atkin. "I think waiting five to seven days after a big life change is a good rule."
When a client asks for something substantially different, Atkin said she asks a ton of questions before agreeing to make the cut.
Izquierdo also cautioned against making major hair alterations when stressed or angry. If a layered bob still feels right a few days after the stress has passed, then book that appointment.
Consider the upkeep
Stylists create intricate curls, updos, and other borderline magic hairstyles with ease. But how much time will you spend perfecting those looks without help? Before giving a serious cut, Gurgov makes sure the client can confidently recreate the style on their own. If learning some new skills to keep those side-swept bangs looking fresh sounds like fun, then chop away.
See a stylist you already know and trust
Stick to your normal stylist.Shutterstock Stick with a familiar, beloved stylist for major cuts.
"If you are looking for a big change, it's always good to go to a stylist that you trust and have a relationship with," Gurgov told INSIDER. "That way, you can feel good about leaving it in their expert hands." The longtime stylist will already know your maintenance habits and hairstyle preferences, so helping you make a reasonable change is easy.
Izquierdo echoed this advice about visiting a familiar face for substantial cuts.
"It's best if I've been seeing the client for a while so I know their hair and how they like to style it, what they're comfortable with," Izquierdo told INSIDER.
Bring lots of photos of the desired hairstyle
Research your desired style before visiting a salon. As Atkin suggested, bringing in several photos or screenshots of the desired cut, preferably featuring someone with a similar hair texture, is helpful.
The stylist can tell whether the look will translate to your hair in particular. Providing the stylist with as much information as possible helps everybody. It’s all about communication.
Talk it out
Make sure the stylist understands the cut you want well before the scissors come out.
"Before any of my clients make a big change to their hairstyle, I have a thorough consultation with them to understand why they are making the change and what overall look they are going for," said Gurgov.
Atkin said she also has a consultation before any major hair alteration, and she reviews tons of photos of similar hairstyles with the client beforehand.
"I also pay attention to how a client responds to the photos and that gives me a good idea if they're going to be comfortable with the big change or not," said Atkin. "Communication is key to making sure your client is happy with the end result!"
Izquierdo also advocates a thorough consultation with plenty of photos and conversation.
"Talk to your hairstylist," said Izquierdo. "He or she is familiar with your hair and will be able to give you advice on how you can make the style best for you." A quick, honest conversation in the salon chair may prevent weeks of regret and growing-out.
Consider the stylist’s feedback
The stylist is there to help you look and feel awesome, and this may involve adjustments to the original plan.
"Be open to feedback from your stylist on how to best interpret your new style to fit your hair texture, face shape, and even your lifestyle," Gurgov told INSIDER.
If you're a wash and go type of person, then the hairdresser may not recommend looks that require tons of heat styling and maintenance. Plus, the asymmetrical bangs that look great on Instagram might not translate as well to your curly locks. The end decision about your appearance is a personal call, of course, but it's wise to consider the stylist's advice. Chances are, they only want you to look and feel amazing.
Be open to positive change
Sure, stylists urge clients to approach big haircuts with careful consideration. But sometimes a style shake-up is called for.
"Getting a new cut should be positive. It should make you feel more confident and be a fun change to your style," said Izquierdo. "I see people come in for cuts when they get a new job, move to a new place, or go through a change that they’re excited about." They want a fresh look to fit the occasion.
Plus, the different style might feel refreshing and even be inspiring. "A new hairstyle can provide a well-needed confidence boost," said Gurgov. If it feels like a positive move, then get the big haircut.
Get style advice at the shop
Even after the big chop happens, pay attention to the stylist.
"After the cut, watch how they style your hair and ask for tips on how to do it at home," said Izquierdo. By watching closely and asking questions, you'll have a better chance of recreating the finished look at home. Hopefully, the dramatic haircut will feel perfect right away.
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