Cancellation of Hair Makeovers

Woman calling to make a haircut appointment
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Q: Why do women who plan a long-to-short hair makeover often change their minds at the last moment? It's something I encounter quite frequently. Women who were initially excited about their planned drastic change from long to short hair often back out at the last minute.
 
They enthusiastically schedule an appointment for a drastic makeover, but when the moment arrives, they decide to play it safe and only get a little trim. For me as a hairstylist, this can be frustrating, especially when I've set aside ample time for a thorough consultation and the shortening of their hair.
 
A: I see the same recurring pattern in women planning a significant transformation from long to short hair. This tendency to doubt and, in some cases, completely reverse their initial choice can, in my opinion, be attributed to a multitude of psychological and emotional factors intertwined with societal influences.
 
When a woman has made the decision to cut her long hair, and the appointment is set, the countdown begins, making it all real and very exciting. The prospect of trading her familiar long locks for a refreshing short cut can create a strange mix of enthusiasm and nervousness. As the appointment approaches and the impact of her decision becomes clearer, she may find herself in a whirlwind of emotions, leading her to reconsider her initial choice for short hair.
 
An emotional attachment to long hair can complicate the makeover. Hair is not just a collection of strands; it is intertwined with a woman's identity and self-expression. Long hair can hold sentimental value, and saying goodbye to it can evoke feelings of vulnerability and loss, even if the ultimate goal is a beautiful short hairstyle she desires. This emotional connection can lead to hesitation and a last-minute change of mind when the time comes to cut it.
 
Societal expectations and influences can also contribute to sudden feelings of doubt in a woman planning a long-to-short hair makeover. Beauty standards and prevailing norms regarding femininity and attractiveness may make her question whether a short haircut is actually a good choice. This societal pressure can lead her to decide at the last moment that the makeover won't go through. The potential influence of a partner should not be underestimated either.
 
Woman hesitating about a long to short hair makeover
Image via Canva
The commitment involved in maintaining long hair versus the convenience of a shorter hairstyle can surprisingly also create doubt. Long hair requires time and effort in terms of care and styling, which can be both a source of pride and a burden. Cutting long hair will mean bidding farewell to a specific routine but can also symbolize an emotional farewell to the long hair phase of life. This can create emotional turmoil and hesitation.
 
The fear of the unknown also plays a significant role. A woman may worry about how the short hair will affect her appearance, whether it will suit her clothing style and lifestyle, and how friends and family will react. As the planned appointment approaches, the potential impact of the makeover becomes more tangible. The fear of possible regret or a hairstyle that doesn't look good can lead to a reconsideration of the plan to go for a short look.
 
The consultation with the hairstylist also plays a crucial role. When a woman expresses her expectations and concerns, the stylist's ability to understand all of this, provide expert advice, and instill confidence is of great importance. Lack of clarity or miscommunication during this crucial phase can lead to indecision, causing her to decide last-minute not to proceed with the makeover.
 
A drastic makeover, especially the process leading up to it, is a complex mix of emotions, self-perception, and societal influences. The hesitancy and last-minute change of mind in many women planning a long-to-short hair makeover can be perfectly explained by this. It also shows that it's not always a good idea to change your look impulsively and immediately. It's better to give it some time, think it over thoroughly, and maybe use a makeover app.
 
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See also: Why do we feel so good after a visit to the hair salon?