It's generally not recommended to heavily style your hair with products before a haircut.
While it might be tempting to arrive with your hair perfectly coiffed, it's usually better to keep styling to a minimum. Here's a breakdown:
Why You Should Avoid Heavy Styling Before a Haircut
According to the provided reference, heavy product buildup can interfere with your haircut appointment in several ways:
- Uneven Hair Color: If you're planning to get your hair colored, product residue can cause the color to apply unevenly, leading to patchy results.
- Inaccurate Hair Assessment: Your stylist needs to evaluate your natural hair type and texture to give you the best cut. Product buildup can make it harder for them to see how your hair behaves and may impact their ability to make proper assessments.
- Challenges with Dry Cuts: Many stylists prefer to perform dry cuts (cutting the hair before washing). Hair products can interfere with the process.
- General Interference: In general, product buildup can just make it harder for the stylist to work with your hair.
What To Do Instead
Instead of going all-out with styling products, consider these approaches:
- Clean Hair: Aim for freshly washed and dried hair that is free from heavy product residue.
- Light Products: If you must use products, opt for light styling aids that won't leave significant buildup.
- Minimal Styling: Try to keep your styling simple. If your hair is naturally straight, don't use product to curl it, and vice versa.
- Consult With Your Stylist: When you book your appointment, ask the salon if they have specific preferences regarding hair product use before appointments.
Table: Styling Before A Haircut
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Arrive with freshly washed and dried hair | Arrive with heavy product buildup |
| Use minimal, light products (if needed) | Use heavy styling products |
| Keep styling simple | Intricate or heavily styled hair |
| Ask your stylist for advice | Assume what is ok is ok (it's safer to ask) |
Conclusion
While you might want to present your best self at a hair appointment, keeping your hair relatively clean and product-free will help your stylist do their best work. You can always style after your haircut.
