Nivedita Ramakrishnan
Most of us would have had our hair chopped now and then, so we'll know how to go about a haircut. But for those who're considering getting a haircut for the first time or even those considering a new haircut, here a few pointers to keep in mind.
First things first, ask yourself if you really need the haircut--remember that 'want' and 'need' are different. If you feel that the reason that you haven't had your locks chopped until now is a good one, don't go for the cut. But if you want to try out a new style, come out as a new person or have a stronger reason that convinces you thoroughly that you do need the haircut, go ahead and get it done.
Do you want a cut like that new celebrity? Or do you have something else in mind? Is there any style that you wanted to try in particular? Do you want it shortened by a lot...or do you just want a trim?
Try answering these questions to see what you might want and would be comfortable with--there are many haircut styles to choose from after all!
Different haircuts may suit different shapes of faces. Research a little on this, look up a lot of examples before you zero down to at least a few that you think may suit your face's shape.
Haircuts don't always come cheap. If you want to approach a famous salon, it could obviously get expensive. But you could reduce your expenses if you go to a moderately priced salon as well. Rather than getting shocked over your bill AFTER your haircut, it would be advisable to try finding out how much it would cost you--you can go in mentally prepared so that both your wallet and haircut make you happy!
And although they say that haircuts aren't that expensive for men, approaching salons where better quality products are used could actually tend to foot a hefty bill no matter what the gender.
When in confusion, have a talk with those who've already had haircuts. If you know someone who's often had haircuts, that's great--they'll have a lot of advice to help you with. Or if you find someone who's very recently had a haircut, that's even greater--they could let you in on the latest details of the styles suggested at the salon, which staff cuts better and so on.
Talking always helps and this applies to haircuts, too!
Once you're sure of what style you want and which salon you want to approach, go ahead and give them a call to book yourself a slot! Booking an appointment is always better than walking to the salon without any prior reservation because an appointment will give you and your stylist ample time to work on your hair.
Better safe than sorry: talk to your stylist about what exactly you want, ask if the stylist thinks if it would suit you, ask if the style you want is difficult to maintain...talk about all that is on your mind and clear it out with your stylist before you get your haircut.
Not all haircuts need much maintenance--but there are always those that do. Make sure you know how to take care of your style even for a while after you've got your haircut. Your stylist will suggest you tips for this if you ask. Also research online about the caring procedures you should follow, talk to friends who've had a similar cut before.
For instance, short hair needs more care often--although many people don't realize this fact.
Once you get your haircut, you'll be very happy with it.
Until the flood of opinions come in, that is. Everybody will say many things about your new cut and most may be easily negative. Be prepared for this!
Take it easy, play it down.
Do you like your haircut? Then, keep your head high up and walk forward proudly.
You've got just one lifetime. So make the best of it. Try out new things--which means new hairstyles, of course!
Even if you end up getting a cut different from what you wanted, take it in a good stride and make the most of it!
Another teenager in university, having a penchant for Japanese, literature and all the small things in life that almost always go unnoticed.
