by Erin Blubaugh

Created on: January 19, 2009

Growing Out Your Hairstyle

You made a resolve. You know what you ultimately want. And yet you can't help wanting to shave your head as a remedy to all hair woes. But before you take that razor to your head in frustration, take a moment to determine if you really want it to end this way.

We all know what it's like, trying to let your style grow out. As hair takes on length, it suddenly seems to have less and less regard for all your efforts. At this point, it's all too easy to rush back to your stylist and have it all chopped off again just so you can manage it. Stop right there! Believe it or not, there are several ways to make growing out a cut easier.

1. Take time to practice styling your hair in new ways.

As hair grows out of one style, it becomes harder and harder to work withif you are still trying to style it the same way. When it becomes obvious that it's no longer doing the same thing as it would before, try playing with your hair to see what other styles might work. Just like you had to learn how to style your last cut, be patient and attempt some new styles. If you are short on ideas, grab a hair mag from your local supermarket or cruise the net for help. And remember, clips, hair bands, and wraps are your biggest asset on days when your hair seems to have a mind of its own.

2. Don't avoid your stylist.

It seems like a no-brainer: if you're trying to gain length, why would you get a trim? But there are several reasons this philosophy can backfire. First, your hair, without regular trims, is more prone to breakage and splitting, which will cost more length in the long run.

Second, as your style grows out, it doesn't always grow out uniformly. Over a long period of time, it can become a little lopsided or frayed. Keeping it trimmed will correct the problem.

Getting a regular trim will also link you with a professional who can suggest a few changes in the cut to make growing out easier. Also, your stylist can suggest new ways to work with your hair, making the processes less aggravating than it would have been otherwise. A tiny trim (less than inch, in many cases) once every two-to-three months will make this process much more manageable.

3. Pampering for maximum results

If you have hair that tends to dry out, it's crucial to keep it in good shape. Buy the best shampoo you can afford and remember to do a home-conditioning treatment once a month. By making sure your hair is properly moisturized, you will have fewer periods of frustration with hair that frizzes out, will not curl/straighten properly or appears dull and lifeless.

4. Try a new styling product.

Sometimes the product that used to do the trick only makes things worse. This is especially true of heavy products, like wax, certain gels and creams, and shine serums. Don't fret: there are always alternatives. For example, if a liquid shine serum causes hair to look stringy and thin, switch to a shine product that sprays a fine mist, like Beyond Shine by Aquage. If wax is turning your hair into gloppy cake batter, switch to a lighter-hold gel. If gel's the culprit, you might find foam works better. Your stylist has seen it all; let him/her offer a suggestion.

As you can see, there are a few ways to keep your resolve when it comes to growing out your hair. Just remember that like much of life, it is a journey. Keep the end result in mind. A little bit of work on your part will net the result you're hoping for!

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