Navigating the Lockdown Haircut Dilemma: DIY vs Professional

With the challenges brought about by the current lockdowns, many have resorted to cutting their own hair. But how does it compare to a professional haircut? This article explores personal experiences and offers insights on the benefits and drawbacks of DIY haircuts versus professional touch-ups.

My Personal DIY Haircut Experience

Almost a year ago, in July 2021, I took the plunge and cut my own hair. This was a result of the ongoing lockdown restrictions that made it difficult to visit the salon. My goal was to achieve a choppy, uneven style reminiscent of many modern hair trends. Here's what my haircut looked like before and after:

Before:

After:

I specifically made the back uneven with choppy layers, hoping to achieve the desired style. It was a bold experiment, and while it wasn't perfect, it did manage to create a unique and edgy look.

DIY Haircut: A Long-Time Insider's Perspective

It has been quite a journey to get to my decision to experiment with cutting my own hair. Growing up, my Aunt Margie, a licensed hairdresser, maintained a salon in St. Louis, Missouri. She not only did my hair but also taught me about hair care from an early age.

Despite my initial interest not lying in the world of hairdressing, a series of life experiences redirected me towards the founding of the first-ever consumer hair and beauty website, Over the years, I wrote hundreds of articles about hair care and styling, but I never stopped learning myself.

My Journey in Cosmetology

To deepen my knowledge, I enrolled in cosmetology school, where I learned about hair cutting, coloring, and styling, including advanced courses in extensions, color, wigs, and chemicals. While I never worked behind the chair, I definitely honed my own cutting skills, testing them on myself.

If I had pursued a career in hairdressing, I would have specialized in areas like hair color, chemicals, perms, relaxers, straighteners, or even making wigs. However, one aspect of the beauty school training that I never looked forward to was cutting hair. Nevertheless, I managed to learn and can now cut my own hair with confidence, albeit with a few bumps along the way.

DIY vs Professional Haircut

While my DIY attempts have their merits, they often result in uneven lines and messy layers, which is why I trust and rely on my long-term hairdresser, who has been cutting my hair for over 16 years. She consistently delivers excellent results, and her expertise in styling and haircraft is unmatched.

Trust is a crucial factor in choosing a professional over a DIY solution. For those who value trust and expertise, professional hairstylists like mine are the way to go. However, for those who want to try something new and budget-friendly, DIY haircuts can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Conclusion

The decision between a professional haircut and a DIY one comes down to personal preferences and circumstances. Whether you're looking for a quick fix or a unique style, both options have their advantages. Trust your instincts, and choose what makes you happiest and most confident.

For those interested in learning more about hair care and styling, you can explore many resources online. Whether you choose to explore the world of hairdressing or simply DIY your next haircut, the journey can be both enlightening and empowering.