Making the Long to Short Hair Transition: The Long and Short of It

Ready to trade in your long locks for a shorter 'do? Whether you want an easier to manage style, a cooler cut for the summer, or just a big change, preparation is key to getting a great cut. When making the transition from long to short hair, it is always advisable to work with a professional stylist; cutting your own hair in this case may result in undesirable or unexpected results. Before you make an appointment with a stylist, look for hairstyles you like. Magazines, TV, and websites are a good place to start. Try to look for hairstyle models with facial shape and structures similar to yours. Square shaped faces are softened with graduated layers, but can appear wider with a very short cut. Wispy bangs and full sides shorten rectangular faces. Round faces benefit from styles with height and volume at the crown, but short cropped cuts should be avoided. Chin-length cuts with full layers at the bottom flatter heart shaped faces. Your stylist can also advise you on types of styles that will enhance your features. There are also many virtual makeover websites that allow you upload a picture of yourself and "try on" hairstyles.

If you are hesitant to take the plunge, try a medium-length hairstyle, and gradually choose shorter and shorter styles. This allows you to become used to a shorter style without making a dramatic change. You may also find that a medium-length cut to your liking, as it allows for more flexibility in styling than a shorter cut. Take pictures of your favorite hairstyles to your appointment with the stylist. They will work with you to give you a cut to enhance features you wish to call attention to, and minimize those which you don't. Your stylist will be able to show you a few new ways to style your new haircut, and make recommendations on which products (such as pomade, styling wax, or muds) will be best for your hair.

After deciding on a cut, consider donating your locks to charity. Several charities accept hair donations to create hair pieces and wigs for children and adults who have lost their hair due to medical reasons such as chemotherapy, burns, or alopecia. Yet another uses hair to weave mats for cleaning up oil spills. Choose a charity that best meets your wishes for how the donation will be used. Be sure your hair meets the length and condition requirements for donation. Inform your stylist, and follow all directions and guidelines from the charity.

A new haircut is a commitment, although temporary. Avoid regrets by being absolutely sure this transition is right for you. Think about why you wish to make the switch to short hair. If a short haircut is only a fleeting thought, or it looked cute on a celebrity or friend, you may want to reconsider getting a short haircut. A long to short hair transition can seem daunting, but being prepared will help you get a fantastic new look!