The secret to healthy hair is regular haircuts—they rid your hair of damage and breakage and refresh your overall style. For the most part, the majority of us get them when it’s time to make a major change or when it’s beyond noticeable that you need one (read: split ends, out-of-control dryness and hard-to-tame fraying). Hairstylist Aaron Grenia at IGK Salon at Dream Downtown New York says these five signs are red flags that it’s time to spend some quality time in your stylist’s chair.
Your Ends Are Fried
This is the biggest giveaway that it’s time to cut your hair. When the bottom of your hair is dry, frizzy and out of control—no matter how often you condition it and the products you use—there’s nothing left to do but cut it. “When your ends are dead and fried and there’s breakage, your hair will tangle. Trimming it one-quarter of an inch every seven weeks will still allow for growth, while keeping the ends clean,” says Grenia.
Your Hair Lacks Shape and Style
The longer you wait in between haircuts, the more your style will grow out and lose its shape. “At a certain point, the layers or texture, which is what makes a cut fun, grows out and needs help,” says Grenia. A trim or cut can reestablish shape and your style so it doesn’t look flat and lifeless.
You Just Can’t Style Your Hair Anymore
If you’re having a hard time doing your hair—be it blow-drying, getting it straight or curling it—Grenia says you’re due for a cut. “If your ends are split, they won’t hold a curl or a blowout as well as a fresh cut or trim.”
Your Don’t Wear Your Hair Down
If your hair is constantly pulled back or in a ponytail because of damage or a do-nothing style, Grenia says it’s probably time for a change.
