(Long Island, N.Y.) A bad haircut can equal big problems. I once got a haircut so awful, I left the salon in tears and wore my hair up in a ponytail for weeks. So how can you avoid a botched job and wanting to hide out in your house for weeks? Communication is key.Your hair stylist is not a mind reader (or a magician) and if you want the perfect cut, you’ll need to team up and talk it out. Here’s how:
1. Learn the Lingo. Nope, you won’t be quizzed on this but knowing some basic terms can help you communicate. For instance: A Blunt Cut, is an even cut–straight across that works best on straight hair. Long Layers can give your hair fullness and movement and looks great when they in front and around your face (Face Frame). Not quite sure what a Bob is ? No worries, just ask for a detailed explanation.
2. Show-N-Tell. Bring a photo with you. Scan a magazine a tear out a ‘do’ you adore.This will give your stylist a crystal-clear vision of what you want. (Remember, some celebs get primped for hours so be realistic!) You can find fab photos anywhere. Browse your own albums for ideas or take a digital picture of a friend whose look you love. Take the printout, the camera, or her with you.
3. Look Before You Leap. If you’re feeling gutsy and going for an edgy cut your stylist suggested, ask to see an example. Most salons have magazines and hairstyle books on hand. Take a peek at something similar before you dive into anything too drastic. Seek out a second opinion and make sure you really think it out before they get scissor-happy.
4. Ask The Expert. Stylist really know their stuff, so go on–ask away: What kind of cut will be most flattering for the shape of my face? Is it versatile ? Easy to style? What products or tools will I need? How often do I need to maintain it? Can I still pull it back in a pony?
5. You’re The Expert, Too. That’s right. You’ve been living with your hair forever and honestly, you know it best. Trust your own instincts and make sure you tell the stylist things they might not know like; how you like to part your hair, how much time you like to spend fixing it, if it tends to get frizzy.
6. Speak Up Don’t be shy. That a big problem when you’re in “the chair”. We tend to give up all our control. It’s your hair and you shouldn’t feel bad to ask for exactly what you want. If you just want a simple trim don’t feel bullied into getting bangs. If you’re not comfortable with your stylist suggestions, just say so, loud and clear–before they start snipping!
