Transitioning from Long to Short Hair

So, you've decided to cut your hair! It is normal to feel a degree of apprehension about it. After all, it is a large transition from what you're used to. It involves a change in your daily grooming habits, and you may need to use different hair products than you're used to. First of all, make sure cutting your hair is what you want. Maybe you're ready for a change in your look. Maybe the upkeep of long hair has become too annoying for your routine. Avoid cutting your hair just because you saw someone with a cute, short hairstyle. There are other variables to consider, and a drastic cut will be likely to attract attention from friends and co-workers. Cutting your hair for your own benefit and not anyone else's is key. If you've decided that cutting your hair is what you want, here are some things to consider.

Don't cut too short the first time.
You're apt to take off more than you like. You're best off cutting your hair in intervals. For the first cut you probably want to go for a medium length. You may feel too restricted with a very short cut. A medium cut still allows you the freedom to pull your hair back or up.

Make sure you talk to your stylist BEFORE you cut your hair.
Hair styles rely greatly on facial shapes. What looks great on one person may not suit your face as well simply due to facial shape difference. Different faces are accentuated by different styles. It's important to make sure the style you choose is compatible with your shape. There is a wonderful resource for this online at http://www.visual-makeover.com/face.htm , if you'd like to go to your stylist with something suitable in mind. http://www.dailymakeover.com is a great place to see different hairstyles on a type of face of your choice.

Treat yourself to new hair products.
Different styles may require different products. Consult with your beautician for some ideas and experiment with them to find what works best for you.

Consider donating your hair.
Once you have made the decision to cut your hair, you may want to consider donating it to a nonprofit organization that creates wigs for financially disadvantaged people and children with cancer, burns or otherwise serious permanent hair loss issues. Below are links to websites of several of these organizations with more information on how to donate your hair:

www.locksoflove.org
www.wigsforkids.org
www.beautifullengths.com