Some people get haircuts every few weeks, while others wait a year or even longer. To keep your hair the healthiest, strongest, and yes, even the longest it can be, regular haircuts are essential. To make your hair look its best, there are several general recommendations based on your current haircut, texture, and thickness.

Here are the main guidelines to ensure your hair always looks its best in between haircuts: How often should you cut your hair for hair growth? Every six to eight weeks. Want to grow long hair quickly? It may seem counterintuitive, but getting more frequent haircuts is likely to lead to longer hair because you prevent the cuticle at the ends from splitting. If you have very fine or very coarse hair, or if you frequently dye or heat-style your hair, you may need more frequent haircuts since these types of hair tend to be more prone to breakage. Warning signs that it’s time for a haircut, regardless of your length or texture: There are signs to look out for whether you have long, short, curly, or straight hair:

– You notice split ends.

– Your hair tangles easily and frizzes at the ends.

– The ends of your hair have a sticky, almost gummy texture.

– Your curls start to lose or change their shape.

– The ends of your hair begin to thin out and break into multiple split strands.

– Split ends travel up the shaft of your hair.

Now let’s consider different hair types and recommendations for them.

1. Short Hair

Frequency of haircut: Every 4-6 weeks.

Short hairstyles require regular maintenance to maintain their shape and style. If you wear a pixie or bob, you should visit the hairstylist every 4-6 weeks. This helps avoid frizz and maintain clean lines. After two weeks, short hair still retains its shape, but by four weeks it starts to look grown out.

2. Medium Hair

Frequency of haircut: Every 6-8 weeks.

Medium-length hair allows for more styling experimentation but also requires regular upkeep. A haircut every 6-8 weeks will help keep the ends healthy and prevent split ends. If you want to grow your hair out, you can extend the interval to 10-12 weeks, but don’t forget about regular trims.

3. Long Hair

Frequency of haircut: Every 8-12 weeks.

Long hair can look gorgeous but requires special attention. It is recommended to cut it every 8-12 weeks to maintain the health of the ends and avoid damage. If you actively care for your hair using masks and oils, you can increase the period between cuts. Longer hair requires much less maintenance when it comes to cutting. This is great news since many people with long hair prefer minimal cuts and try to trim less frequently to avoid losing length. Long hairstyles can better adapt to longer breaks between cuts; however, long hair can also be more prone to breakage as it ages compared to shorter styles. If you notice split ends or more frequent tangling, it’s time for a trim. The timing for when you should get a haircut also depends on the texture of your hair: thicker long hair can withstand longer intervals between cuts, while finer hair may require more frequent trims.

4. Wavy and Curly Hair

Frequency of haircut: Every 8-12 weeks.

Wavy and curly hair has its own characteristics. It can appear more voluminous and does not require as frequent cuts as straight hair. However, regular trims help maintain the shape of curls and prevent frizz. Ideally, such hair should be cut every 8-12 weeks.

The ability to style your hair allows for longer intervals between haircuts. There are many types of curls and wave patterns, but what is common for haircuts is that the outlines of curls or patterns change and lose their shape. If your curls start to look dull, it’s likely time for a trim.

5. Fine and Thin Hair

Frequency of haircut: Every 6-8 weeks.

Hair tends to become thinner every four to six weeks and shows every cut, often not growing back ideally. You’ll want to get this type of haircut more frequently. Fine hair is more prone to damage from hot tools and extensions than other hair types, so regular trims are key to success. Trimming every 6-8 weeks will help avoid weighing down the hairstyle and give your hair a healthier appearance.

6. Thick and Heavy Hair

Frequency of haircut: Every 8-12 weeks.

Thick hair can be challenging to maintain, but it can be cut less frequently—every 8-12 weeks. This will help retain length and prevent the hairstyle from becoming too heavy. Like long hair, thick hair is generally more forgiving; however, don’t forget about regular care: masks and conditioners will help maintain hair health.

7. Straight Hair

Frequency of haircut: Every 4-8 weeks.

Straight hair can grow out and look quite messy if not maintained. Aim to get a trim every month or two, especially if you have fine and straight hair.

Each hair type is unique, and it’s important to consider this when choosing your haircut schedule. Also, pay attention to your hair: if you notice it looking dull or split, it may be worth visiting the stylist sooner than planned.

Regular care and proper cuts will help your hair look healthy and beautiful all year round!