Nothing’s more vexing than exiting the salon, discovering your fresh ‘do wasn’t what you hoped for. Perhaps it’s too short on top, clumsily cut layers, or something just not right—what to do with a bad haircut is a common dilemma. That bad cut has the ability to be an honest confidence damper. On the bright side: it shouldn’t destroy your life or hair repertoire. Here’s how to turn a horrible haircut into an actionable (or even positive) experience.
Things to Do Immediately After a Bad Haircut
The key to addressing an unsatisfying haircut is communication. If you catch a glimpse of your hair not looking as you’d hoped before you leave the salon or barber, don’t be afraid to say something. They won’t bite! The vast majority of professional stylists care about making you happy and will often make adjustments to enhance the style or more closely reflect what you had in mind. Politely describe the parts of your haircut that bother you, and they will usually try to do something to help.
If you’ve already escaped from the chair, don’t panic. Take some time at home and assess the situation. Wash and style your own hair, as salon styling will often cause the cut to look different to your own styling. Seeing how it behaves in its natural state may give you a better idea of what to do when you hate your haircut, or if simple tweaks can make it more manageable.
Styling Strategies to Make the Best of It
Once you’re dealing with the haircut as-is, consider creative ways to style it. Knowing what to do if you don’t like your haircut often comes down to experimenting. Messy waves can soften harsh layers, while sleek styles may disguise uneven cuts. Got bangs that feel too blunt or too short? Try side-sweeping them to change the look altogether. For those struggling with unexpected short sections, accessories are your new best friend. Headbands, scarves, and hair clips can stylishly hide problem areas.
Splurging on quality styling products can pay off big time, too. A good texturizing spray can give life to flat or lifeless hair, and pomades or creams can smooth out layers that just won’t cooperate. Experimenting with these tools may change your view of the cut. If you’re unsure, you can schedule your appointment with a trusted stylist for advice on fixing the cut.
Patience and Healthy Habits for Growth
There sometimes just isn’t any other choice but to wait for your hair to grow. Fortunately, proper hair care can speed up the process and keep your locks in prime condition. Add in healthy treatments such as hair masks or oils to assist in strengthening your hair, and avoid too harsh treatments or equipment while waiting. Trims (yes, even on a not-so-great cut) can assist in avoiding split ends and even encourage hair growth.
If waiting feels like an eternity, resort to a quick fix like adding extensions for volume or length. Extensions can be a lifesaver for hiding choppy cuts or adding some balance to an unbalanced style. If your haircut gone wrong has left you frustrated, extensions might be the instant solution you need.
Your Confidence is More Than Your Hair
A bad haircut is irritating at the time, but remember that hair grows back, and generally faster than you realize. Focus on what you have control over, whether that’s experimenting with new styles, figuring out new tricks, or just looking at this as an opportunity to do something new.
If you need inspiration or further tips on how to deal with a bad haircut, there are plenty of online videos and resources to aid you. You’re not who you are after one haircut—firstly because it’s just temporary, and secondly because you have the creativity and ability to make the most of it!