photo source: blackhairinformation.com

Trimming. The dreaded word that strikes fear in the hearts of women all over the world. And hey, I get it! We’ve all had that scissor happy hairdresser who cuts off 5 inches when you say you only want 1 inch off. I know what it’s like when you’ve been taking SUCH good care of your hair and the thought of trimming and seeing your precious hair on the salon floor gives you anxiety. I get it!

 

 

photo source: Instagram (natureslocks)

Here’s the honest truth: trimming your hair is essential for having healthy hair – remember, health is more important than length. I’ll say it again: HEALTH IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN LENGTH. The ends are the oldest parts of your hair – they have been through the most wear and tear and require the most care. Even if you’re super careful, your ends will sustain damage a lot quicker than the rest of your hair. This can be in the form or split ends, single strand knots and breakage. The issue with not trimming is that these split ends will begin to creep up your strands and the damage will become a lot more extensive to the point that you will have to cut off double the amount or all your hair will be damaged. People often complain their hair isn’t growing but the real question is are you retaining length? If you’re not trimming your hair, your ends will eventually start breaking and that breakage may take off healthy strands as well as the unhealthy ones. Taking excellent care of your hair doesn’t mean you don’t need a trim – trimming is part of taking excellent care of your hair!

 

 

 

So how often do you need to trim then?? Honestly, this is a personal decision. I know that when my hair was relaxed, my personal rule of thumb was about every 8-10 weeks. But now that I take much better care of my hair (no heat, weekly deep conditioning, regular moisture schedule), I trim a lot less. I actually trim every 3-4 months. This is why I say it’s personal! If you use a lot of heat or relax your hair, you may need to trim more often! You need to pay attention to your hair and do what works for you.

 

Just be sure to look out for the tell-tale signs that signal when a trim is due:

  • A lot of breakage
  • Split ends
  • A lot of single strand knots
  • Difficulty detangling your hair
  • Overly dry and brittle ends
  • Highly tangled ends
  • Droopy and lifeless hair

So don’t be afraid to trim! Find a hair stylist you trust and schedule those regular trims for healthy hair!!