Planning a haircut before a big event? Here’s when you should actually get it done

Thinking of getting a haircut right before your big event? Here’s what you need to know about hair styling.

Planning for a big event is always exciting and often starts with thinking about which outfit to pick, how to do the makeup, what accessories to go for, and all the other details that will make you feel more beautiful and confident in your own way. However, your hair is sometimes left off your priority list. A stylish haircut or a special hairstyle can make a real difference and highlight your personality. But the catch is when to get the haircut done to achieve the desired look. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Komal Pandey, hair cut expert and head trainer and skill development manager, shared how timing impacts the haircut and look.

When to get the haircut done?

According to Komal, a haircut session should not be planned too early before the event, as you might not feel comfortable with the short hair or a new length. On the other hand, it should not be scheduled too close to the event; otherwise, you will have a hard time getting used to the new look. Luckily, going to the beauty salon with its multiple inconveniences and additional expenses is no longer a must, as you can now enjoy the services of a barber at home.

If you need a regular haircut or trim, a reasonable time would be five to seven days before the event. (Unsplash)

Therefore, how early you need to plan a haircut before the event depends on your preferred style, your hair’s maintenance, and growth cycle.

When you need just a simple trim?

“If you need a regular haircut or trim, a reasonable time would be five to seven days before the event,” highlighted Komal. This way, your hair will still look nice and will give you enough time to check how your hair will look after styling and washing it yourself. You will also be able to see if the hairstyle or the hair length fits your expectations or not.

When does a new hairstyle need more time?

When you are planning to completely change your hairstyle, you should visit the salon with a prior plan. “If you intend to chop off lots of hair or try something new for a change, then giving yourself between a week and two would help you adapt to your new hairstyle,” advises Komal. The volume of the hair can fall directly after the first wash; you might need extra time in front of the mirror to adjust how you part, dry, or style it.

Short hair requires more precision

According to Komal, short hairstyles often require more maintenance and attention to detail. Your new look can be especially sharp right after the haircut, but after a few days it will look more natural. This is especially important if your desired style requires precision and clean lines along the perimeter and layers.

Think about how much your hair grows on a daily basis and how you usually manage it to pick the right time for the haircut. With long hair, maintenance and precision are usually less of a concern, unless you want to shape your layers. Otherwise, go with the style you are planning to style your hair in most often. If you have to put it up or smooth it out in some specific way for an event, try it out ahead of time to see how manageable the style is.

Match the timing to the occasion

The occasion itself may dictate how much flexibility you have. For something more formal, like pictures or a specific style of hair, having time to test the cut can prevent last-minute changes. A casual gathering offers more freedom, particularly if you are sticking to a familiar look.

With long hair, maintenance and precision are usually less of a concern, unless you want to shape your layers. (Pexel)

Test the hairstyle before the big day

According to Komal, styling for the occasion should definitely be considered. When another person is styling your hair, let him/her know what outcome you want. A little preparation can help the hairstyle work with the cut instead of requiring changes at the last minute. If you are styling it yourself, try the look once beforehand so you know how it falls and how much time you need.