Texturized Thin Hair

Texturizing scissors
Photo: Yellow Cat/Shutterstock
Q: I have fine, thin hair that has been cut in layers for years. I've been asking my stylist if we let the layers grow out if it would look thicker. Logic tells me it would. Yesterday, as she was trimming it, she texturized it using texturizing scissors.
 
I think it looks thinner than ever now! I haven't said anything to her yet, as I'm trying to try different styling techniques first. Though the longest layer is shoulder length, I'm ready to cut it off a few inches to make it look thicker now. I could just cry. Did she make an error in judgement?
 
A: The biggest error in judgment I see made by your stylist is that she obviously didn't listen well enough to her client... you. Ideally, a client would never leave the stylist's chair unhappy with the service.
 
The stylist may not be able to give the client everything she wants for her hair (some clients have unrealistic expectations) but a part of the stylist's job is to educate the client regarding his/her hair and help them to understand what can and cannot be done. If you are unhappy with what the stylist has done, then she hasn't explained herself clearly or hasn't listened to your objections.
 
Not being able to see your hair to judge the texture and density for myself, I can't offer a second opinion on the way she cut your hair. I can only give you general information about fine, thin hair. I suspect that the reason for adding layers to your hair is to give more volume to your hairstyle. This would give the appearance of having more (and thicker) hair provided you have some wave to your hair initially.
 
There is also the possibility that the layers are meant to accommodate other aspects of your face or build. If your face is angular (square, triangular, diamond-shape, etc.) the layers may have been chosen to soften these features. It could also simply be a matter of trying to offer as much volume as possible to balance your head size or build.
 
Your logic is correct in that in many cases blunt hairstyles will appear thicker at the ends. I can't say that a blunt haircut would be best for you, because there are many factors to be considered. However, it is possible that cutting off a few inches may make the hair appear thicker, especially if you have a natural wave to your hair. The loss of the weight to your hair will allow for more fullness.
 
The bottom line in your situation is this: You need to decide whether to continue with your current stylist or find someone new. If you feel that your problems with the stylist are that you simply haven't clearly communicated what you want, then I urge you to be more assertive.
 
Sometimes, we get comfortable with our stylist and are afraid to "rock the boat" so to speak. Likewise, a stylist can become too comfortable with a client and begin to pay less attention to his or her input feeling that they understand the client's wants and needs sufficiently.
 
However, if you feel that the stylist simply isn't listening to you anymore, you should consider finding a new stylist. Be sure with the new stylist that you explain everything you have been dealing with regarding your old stylist and what you want from your hair. Make sure you discuss all your concerns before the stylist touches his/her scissors. A good stylist will take all the time you need to make sure you and he/she are on the same page regarding your wants, needs and what is possible with your hair.
 
I wish you all the best.
 
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See also:
 
Hair texturizing techniques
 
Face shapes and hairstyles
 
How to get a good haircut