When a client asks for a new hairstyle, I spend a lot of time listening to what they want their new style to be like. And then I talk about options on how to tweak the style they want so that it works for their hair type, lifestyle, and of course, budget. Some styles require a lot of time and money to maintain and I want my clients to know in advance what they can expect from their new style. If something they desire is not going to fit their lifestyle or their budget, or doesn’t work with the hair type or face shape that they have, I will kindly and gently let them know. Here are a few styles that I’ve found require a lot of time or money to maintain.
Inverted Bob. The inverted bob was made famous by Spice Girl, Victoria Beckham. A look that was once considered a bit edgy grew in popularity until it hit the mainstream market. This is a very attractive look on a lot of people. If you have the right hair type, this is a very easy type of cut to style at home. The ‘right hair type’ for this cut is thick, straight hair. If your hair is fine or curly, it will take a bit more effort to recreate the style at home. What makes this haircut high maintenance? It requires frequent trims to maintain its shape. If you have your hair cut to this style, it will require trimming at least every four weeks, more if your hair grows fast. Because the hair is so short at the nape of the neck, it will lose its shape quickly. If your hair is curly, you will need to spend time blow-drying and flat-ironing to get the sleek, cool look.
Pixie Cuts. Pixie cuts are an easy, simple cut to style at home. A quick dry with the blow dryer, a little pomade, and you’re ready to go. However, this short, little cut will grow out quickly so expect to visit your salon every four weeks for a quick trim to maintain its shape. You don’t want your cute Halley Berry pixie to turn into a Justin Bieber shag. And believe me, I’ve seen it happen. This cut may not be for you if your face is too round, your hair is too wiry, or your ears stick out too much. Your stylist can help you makes the decision if a pixie cut will work for you.
Dark color over grey hair. Many women who once had thick dark hair want to continue coloring their hair into a dark, rich shade even after they’ve gone completely grey. Many feel like it’s the only way the look like themselves. This is fine to do, with the understanding that grey roots will be very noticeable after only two weeks. Many women in this situation come in for root touch ups every three weeks. In our salon, this costs at least $45 each time. Their are other options, such as placing a few highlights or going with a lighter shade to help lessen the contrast of the root growth against the dark hair color.
Platinum blond. On the flip side of dark hair, is light. Platinum blond looks beautiful, but dark roots are very obvious very quickly. Frequent touch ups are needed, and since hair is usually bleached and toned, the process is more expensive. Hair is damaged more easily and requires extra, costly services such as deep conditioning treatments.
Red hair color. Vibrant red is a beautiful color and looks great any time of year. But red hair tends to fade, and fade fast, especially in the sun. If you would like to go with a bright red hue, consider what lifestyle changes you might have to take (keeping your hair covered, for example) to keep your color vibrant longer. Frequent trips to the salon to refresh your faded locks would be necessary to keep your lovely locks looking their best.
