Long Hair to Short Surviving the Snip

Okay honey, how short did you want it?" I barely had time to wave my hands around my chin before she was gathering my long blonde hair into a fist and hacking through it with a pair of shears. Within seconds, I'd gone from waist-length to a bob that barely touched my shoulders... and I'd really thought it would be a lot less upsetting than it turned out to be. Time to Cut?It's important to take the time to consider all options before taking scissors to hair - sure, hair grows back, but that process can be time-consuming and frustrating. Before approaching the shears, the first question a man or woman should ask themselves is "why do I want a haircut?" -- is it because you're seeking a change? Are you looking to impress a man or woman you have your eye on? Did you see a star or friend with a fantastic cut you want to try? Be sure you're aware of, and sure of, your reasons before following through. How short?Before following the urge to shed inches, it's important to research lengths and styles that are flattering to your own face shape (aren't sure what type you are? Try visiting here) - what works for one shape won't always flatter another.

Also remember where you live; if you live somewhere that's constantly hot and humid, going too short for a ponytail might leave you miserable and frustrated. Still can't decide? Explore a great website full of hairstyles for men and women. Check it out!If you're unsure even after that, try a virtual salon that lets you upload your own photo and apply a "wig" to yourself to see how the style will look before you take the plunge. Give it a try.Now What?The decision has been made... what now? Choose a salon you're comfortable with (and yes, you are probably going to have to spend a little money to get a great cut - for a decision like this it's important to splurge), and bring photos of what you want! Never go in expecting to be able to just describe it. I know some people with very long hair who go for trims with a ruler to be sure they can show the hairdresser exactly what they want. Unfortunately, hairdressers are not psychic, so they need specifics if you want the results you're expecting. Keep an eye on what the hairdresser does while styling your hair - if you're fond of the style you want to be able to replicate it on your own. What to do with the hair?Some people choose to take the haircut plunge and lose up to and over a foot of hair. What to do with that hair? Throwing it out seems like such a waste. Fortunately, there a charities devoted to helping good souls avoid tossing their hair into the trash. Locks of Love(Pros: Very popular and well-known) (Cons: Many rumors are circulating that LoL uses much of their donations for profit) Wigs for Kids(Pros: Long-standing and known) (Cons: As with LoL, the same rumors of selling wigs for profit are circulating) Pantene Beautiful Lengths(Pros: Unlike the others, the wigs are made for women) (Cons: On the flip side, the wigs aren't made for children as they are with the other two) These are the most popular charities; choosing any one of the three can offer a rewarding feeling to the man or woman deciding to lose over ten inches of hair in one fell swoop and may buffer the shock that accompanies a large lifestyle change like a major haircut. By Amanda Reese