3 Ways A Haircut Really Can Change Your Life
I’ve been a hairstylist in Los Angeles for over 8 years. At the risk of sounding trite, l’m just going to go ahead and say it : A HAIRCUT CAN SERIOUSLY CHANGE YOUR LIFE! It's not just about the external changes; it's about how it seeps into your core, altering your outlook and boosting your confidence. Trust me, I’ve seen it. I've had the privilege of cutting the hair of literally thousands of people, and I've witnessed the life-changing effects firsthand. While not every single haircut will bring about monumental changes, even a subtle transformation can have a big impact. Here are some of the themes I've observed during my time as a stylist in LA.
Boosting Confidence
One of the most remarkable transformations I've witnessed is the boost in self-confidence that a great haircut can help provide. It's wild how a flattering hairstyle can make someone stand up taller and radiate positivity. Yale University conducted a study on the psychological impacts of bad hair days and found that the perception of “bad hair” causes self-esteem to plummet for both men and women. It follows that the reverse is also true: when someone feels like their hair looks great, they feel great too. Sometimes, this simply means getting a small trim that refreshes your ends and layers, while other times it means trying out a whole new style. Ultimately, what matters is how your hair makes you feel because that feeling will impact you more than you might realize.
Self-Expression and Personal Style
We are all unique, and our hair can be a form of self-expression. Ideally, how we feel on the inside is reflected on the outside through our clothing, makeup choices (if any), and how we cut, color, and style our hair. Changing your haircut or color has the wonderful power to potentially drastically alter your appearance. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job is helping my clients discover their personal style through their hair. From punky yet hidden undercuts to daring pixie cuts, retro-inspired shags to classic long layers, we create looks that reflect their personality and celebrate their individuality. When a client sees their true self reflecting back at them in the mirror, it's a joyful and triumphant moment. This can be especially powerful for queer folks when they get a gender-affirming haircut!
Social Interactions
Believe it or not, a haircut can have a big impact on your relationships and social interactions. When someone feels good about their appearance, they naturally radiate confidence and charisma that attracts others. The Yale study I mentioned found that besides negatively impacting confidence, bad hair days also leave people feeling less social. Our own perception of how we look, our self-esteem, and our social lives are all intimately intertwined. Another study conducted by The University of Rochester found that assertive people have the benefit of higher quality and more frequent social interactions. A simple haircut can be the difference that makes someone go out instead of staying in, and who knows who you might meet?
Whether it’s confidence, your ability to express yourself, your social life, or all three, the impact a haircut can have is pretty significant. It’s a testament to the power of seemingly small acts of self-care and the ripple effect they can have on so many aspects of our lives. Whether you're contemplating a subtle trim or a bold reinvention of your look, please know that your decision to get a haircut is more than just a superficial change. It is a powerful act of self-care, and your subconscious mind will thank you.