10 Questions to Ask Your Stylist Before a Major Hair Change
Planning a major hair change can be exciting, whether you’re going for a bold new cut, a dramatic color transformation, or trying out a different texture. However, diving into a significant hair boho braids transformation without careful consideration can lead to unexpected results. Asking the right questions before committing ensures you and your stylist are on the same page and helps you make informed decisions. Here are 10 essential questions to ask your stylist before taking the plunge:
1. Will This Style Suit My Face Shape?
The shape of your face plays a big role in determining which haircut or style will complement your features. Ask your stylist to assess whether your desired look will enhance your face shape, and listen to their suggestions for tailoring the cut or style to best suit you.
- Why this matters: Certain styles flatter specific face shapes. For example, long bobs can lengthen round faces, while blunt bangs add sharpness to heart-shaped faces.
2. How Much Maintenance Will This Style Require?
A significant hair change often comes with new maintenance requirements. Some cuts and colors require frequent touch-ups, styling, or product use to look their best.
- Why this matters: If you prefer low-maintenance hair, you’ll want to avoid cuts or colors that need regular upkeep, like high-contrast highlights or precise cuts that lose their shape quickly.
3. How Will This Cut or Color Grow Out?
Understanding how your new style will evolve over time is crucial, especially if you’re opting for a drastic change. Ask your stylist how the style or color will look as it grows and whether you’ll need frequent trims or touch-ups.
- Why this matters: Some styles grow out gracefully, while others, like bangs or bold color contrasts, require regular maintenance to avoid awkward stages.
4. Will This Style Work with My Natural Hair Texture?
Your natural hair texture—whether it’s curly, wavy, straight, or somewhere in between—affects how a haircut or style will look. Ensure that the style you’re considering works with your natural texture or be prepared to commit to styling tools and products if it doesn’t.
- Why this matters: If you have curly or textured hair and want a sleek style, you may need to use heat tools or smoothing products regularly. Conversely, certain cuts may accentuate natural curls.
5. Is My Hair Healthy Enough for This Change?
If you’re considering a major color transformation or a chemical treatment, like a perm or straightening, ask your stylist whether your hair is in good enough condition to handle the process without damage.
- Why this matters: Damaged or brittle hair may not hold up well to intense color treatments or chemical processes. Your stylist may recommend treatments to strengthen your hair first.
6. What Products Will I Need to Maintain This Look?
Each hairstyle and color comes with its own set of product needs, from color-safe shampoos to styling gels or heat protectants. Ask your stylist for product recommendations and whether you’ll need to invest in new items to keep your hair healthy and your style looking fresh.
- Why this matters: Without the right products, your hair might lose its shine, color, or structure quickly. Knowing this upfront helps you prepare for any extra costs.
7. How Long Will the Color or Style Last?
If you’re coloring your hair, ask how long the shade will last and whether it will fade over time. For cuts, ask how often you’ll need to return for trims to maintain the shape.
- Why this matters: Semi-permanent colors wash out in 4–6 weeks, while permanent dyes grow out at the roots. Similarly, some cuts may need monthly trims to maintain their structure.
8. Can This Style Be Adjusted for My Lifestyle?
Your day-to-day activities, job, and hobbies can all impact how easy it is to maintain a new look. If you have a busy lifestyle or participate in sports, ask your stylist how the style can be adjusted for ease of maintenance and flexibility.
- Why this matters: If you’re frequently active or short on time, you’ll need a style that can be managed quickly without extensive styling routines.
9. Will This Change Require a Significant Transition?
Some major hair changes may involve a transitional period, especially if you’re growing out a previous cut or transitioning from dark to light hair. Ask your stylist about the process involved and how long it will take to achieve your final desired look.
- Why this matters: Some transformations, like going from dark to platinum blonde, may require multiple sessions. Understanding this process prevents disappointment and helps set realistic expectations.
10. What Are the Risks or Challenges with This Change?
Every hair change carries potential risks, such as damage from bleach, uneven grow-out, or an unexpected result from a new cut. Ask your stylist to walk you through any potential challenges and how to address them if they arise.
- Why this matters: By discussing possible risks, you can make an informed decision about whether the desired change is worth it, and you can be better prepared for any outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Asking these questions before committing to a major hair change ensures you and your stylist are aligned and helps you feel confident in your decision. Clear communication with your stylist is key to getting the best possible result while considering your hair’s health, maintenance level, and suitability for your lifestyle.