To cut or not to cut?

To cut or not to cut?

TO CUT OR NOT TO CUT? THE REAL HAIR DILEMA. 

Let’s talk about one of the ultimate hair decisions: should you cut your hair or not? I’ve been noticing a trend on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok where people aren’t just asking their close friends for advice—they’re turning to strangers on the internet for an honest opinion. But here’s the deal: the only person who can truly decide is YOU. My role? To help you weigh the pros and cons of your next big hair move.

Without diving too deep into the psychology of it all, the first question you need to ask yourself is simple: Why? Are you just fed up and craving a change, or is there something deeper driving your urge to grab the scissors? Let’s break down some of the most common reasons for wanting to cut it all off and analyse them, Hair Movement style.

“I’ve had long hair forever—it’s time for a change.”

Ah, the timeless need for something new! This is probably my favourite reason because it opens the door to endless creativity. If you’ve flipped between long and short before, this won’t be too daunting. This is a solid reason—so go for it if you’ve been considering it for a while. One tip, though: make sure you have at least five images of your dream look. Also, include things that you do not like; this helps us, as your stylist, really delve into what you are and are not looking for. That way, we know you’ve truly put some thought into this. If not, perhaps try a new hair accessory or lipstick before going for the chop.

“I can’t do anything with my hair anymore.”

Been there! First off, when was your last cut? If it’s been a while and your hair was manageable right after that cut, you probably just need a trim to get it back in shape. You’d be amazed at how much a half-inch off can change the game. However, if styling has always been a challenge, it might be time for a bigger change—something that’ll make your hair easier to work with day-to-day. Not sure how often you should be cutting? Check out our guide on routine hair maintenance.

“I’m having a rough week, and I need a change.”

This one covers a lot more than just a bad week. New job, end of a relationship, feeling overwhelmed? Don’t touch your hair. Trust me. Your hair doesn’t need to reflect the ups and downs of life. Big changes should be made from a place of positivity, not emotional turbulence. When the wave passes, you don’t want to associate your new look with a tough time. Instead, make that transformation when you’re thriving—it’ll become a visual reminder of a happy moment, and you’ll love what you see in the mirror.

“What if it doesn’t suit me?”

This one breaks my heart. So many people shy away from change because they’re afraid a style won’t work for them. But that’s what we’re here for! A hair professional’s job is to help you find a shape and style that enhances your unique beauty. Don’t let self-doubt stop you from going after a look you love. You may be your own harshest critic, but I see the potential in every client. Gather all your favourite inspiration photos and let us guide you through the process.

“What if I regret it?”

Changing your hair can be empowering! But as I mentioned, it should be done to celebrate a positive moment. Hit a milestone? Landed that dream job? Lost those extra pounds? Now is a great time to switch things up. When you look back, you want to think, “Wow, I felt amazing then,” instead of “Ugh, that was a rough time.” The goal is to elevate your happiness, not fix a low point. If manageability is a factor, talk to your stylist in detail. Cutting it shorter doesn’t always mean easier—sometimes it’s the opposite.

“What if my partner doesn’t like it?”

Let me be real—if anyone is trying to control your look, they don’t deserve a say. Hair is an expression of your personality and style. The right person will support whatever makes you feel like your best self. So go ahead, make that change for you. Confidence is the most attractive feature you can have!

Final Thoughts

As I said in the beginning, only you can make the final call. Haircuts can be liberating, refreshing, and fun! But they can also be overwhelming if you’re not doing it for the right reasons. The key is timing and intention—do it when you’re ready, and because you want to, not because you’re trying to fix something else in your life.

If you’re still on the fence, give yourself more time. Go buy a new outfit or switch up your hair care routine instead. And remember, we’re here to chat whenever you need a second opinion. Leave us a comment below and share your hair thoughts—what’s holding you back, or what are you dying to try? Let’s get to the root of it together.

Until next time, keep loving your hair, and keep moving forward with style.

Wonderful World of Balayage

Wonderful World of Balayage

WONDERFUL WORLD OF BALAYAGE

Let’s talk balayage! If you thought it was just another colour, think again. It’s actually an application technique, not a singular service. The word itself comes from the French “balayer,” which means to sweep – and that’s exactly what we do with the colour, sweeping it onto the hair for that effortlessly natural, multi-tonal, dimensional look we all adore. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Within the world of balayage, there are loads of different sub-techniques, each offering something unique.

Of course, that’s where we come in. During your consultation, the tribe at The Hair Movement will help you pick the perfect technique to match your vibe and hair goals. But, if you’re curious about your options, here’s a little sneak peek into the colourful possibilities…

Foilayage: The Best of Both Worlds

Ever wish you could mix balayage with classic foil highlights? Well, meet foilayage – the dream combo! We use the balayage sweep technique to paint the colour onto your hair, but then wrap each section in foils for an extra boost. The result? A more intense look that grows from the root to the end with a natural, blended finish. This is perfect if you want a low-maintenance, yet high-impact look that lets you stretch out those salon visits without sacrificing style.

Face-Framing Magic: The Money Piece

Looking for a subtle touch-up between colour appointments? Say hello to face-framing highlights! Also known as “money pieces,” this technique involves highlighting strands near the front of your hair to accentuate your facial features and structure. It’s a fab way to brighten your look without a full balayage session, and we finish with a toner to give you that perfect glow. Think of it as a mini-makeover with a maximum of 10 foils – quick, effective, and gorgeous.

Air Touch: A Fresh Spin

Now, if you’re after something truly unique, let us introduce you to AirTouch. Rather than traditional backcombing, we use a hairdryer to blow air onto the hair, gently separating shorter strands from longer ones for a seamless blend of colour. The result? A natural, beautifully soft balayage effect, achieved without the use of foils. And the best part? It’s perfect for those with virgin (never-before coloured) hair, seeking a fresh lift with a delicate, natural finish. It’s also an ideal technique for those with finer hair, looking for subtle grey blending.

What’s Your Balayage Journey?

So, there you have it! Whether you’re all about that bold foilayage, a subtle face-framing refresh, or you’re ready to try the innovative Air Touch, we’ve got something for everyone. Balayage is more than just a look – it’s a journey. And we’re here to guide you every step of the way to find the perfect technique that makes you look and feel amazing.

Curious about which balayage option is right for you? Book a consultation with one of our tribe members, and let’s get ready to sweep your hair into something fabulous!

To Grey or Not to Grey

To Grey or Not to Grey

TO GREY OR NOT TO GREY?

One of the many questions I’m often asked as a hairdresser is whether to embrace grey hair or stick with colour. It’s a conversation I enjoy, and I love helping my guests find their answers. In this post, let’s explore the pros and cons of stepping away from hair colour and welcoming your natural grey.

Embracing the Trend

You’ve probably noticed more silver-haired women strutting their stuff on the streets. The desire for beautiful grey hair is becoming increasingly evident, regardless of age. As a stylist, I can tell you that the popular ice-white and silver trends are here to stay. More colour brands are developing cool, ash-toned ranges to meet this demand. However, achieving and maintaining this stunning shade can be tricky—be prepared for a significant commitment to upkeep!

Caring for Grey Hair (When It’s Not Natural)

Maintaining artificial grey hair isn’t a walk in the park. Achieving that perfect shade will require patience and investment. Regular visits for toners are essential to keep your locks looking bright, while purple shampoo can help neutralise unwanted yellow tones. Remember, your environment can impact your colour, so if you live in a polluted area or have hard water, be mindful of how it affects your hair.

Less About Age, More About Confidence

Many people still associate grey hair with age, but this perception is changing. It’s about finding a striking haircut that flatters your natural grey rather than hiding it behind constant colour. I have guests that have started to grey at 24, and some find that embracing natural colour can be incredibly empowering. Grey is no longer about age, so put that out of your mind.

Financial Freedom

Let’s be real: colouring your hair can be pricey, the costs add up. By going grey, you can save on colour treatments while still investing in a beautiful cut and finish every six weeks to keep your look fresh and youthful.

Navigating Early Greys

If you’re just starting to notice a few wiry greys, don’t rush into a full colour job. There are gentler options available, such as demi-permanent colour, which deposits colour without a dramatic change. Lowlights can also help blend greys while maintaining your natural hue. You may also notice changes in the texture of your grey hair, and that’s where treatments like Nice & Smooth, along with adjustments to your home haircare routine, come into play.

Going Grey Gracefully

If you’re already trapped in a cycle of colour that you want to escape, don’t worry! The journey to embracing your grey can be rewarding. Here are a few options:

  • Let It Grow: The simplest (and cheapest) option, though it can be challenging with long hair, as it grows about 1cm a month.
  • Highlights/Lowlights: This technique offers lower-maintenance coverage, allowing for as much or as little colour as you desire. For those with 75% grey or more, baby-lights can create a seamless blend.

Ultimately, the choice to embrace your grey is yours alone, we are here to help create the right hair journey for you!

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