The Haircut Conundrum
We’ve all heard the classic advice: “Get a trim every six to eight weeks.” But does that really apply to everyone? If you’ve ever left the salon wondering whether you’re booking too often—or not often enough—you’re not alone.
The truth is, the perfect haircut schedule depends on your hair type, style, and even Cape Town’s unique climate. Whether you’re maintaining a sleek bob, growing out long layers, or keeping your curls defined, this guide will help you find your ideal trim frequency—straight from hair cutting specialists in the Mother City.
1. The Science of Hair Growth: Why Timing Matters
Before we dive into schedules, let’s talk biology. Hair grows about 1.25 cm per month on average, but factors like genetics, diet, and stress can speed this up or slow it down.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long?
- Split ends travel up the hair shaft, leading to breakage
- Styles lose shape (especially precision cuts like bobs)
- Colour looks duller as ends fray
Can You Cut Too Often?
- Over-trimming slows progress for those growing hair out
- Fine hair can appear thinner if cut excessively
The key? Customizing your schedule based on your hair’s needs.
2. Your Haircut Schedule: A Tailored Approach
A. Short Hair (Pixies, Bobs, Undercuts)
Ideal Frequency: 4-6 weeks
Why: Short styles lose definition quickly. Regular trims:
✔ Maintain sharp lines
✔ Prevent “mullet” formation at the nape
✔ Keep textured looks fresh
Pro Tip from Cape Town Stylists: Humidity accelerates shape distortion—book at the shorter end of this range in summer.
B. Medium-Length Hair (Lobs, Shoulder-Length)
Ideal Frequency: 6-8 weeks
Why: This length shows damage faster than long hair but grows noticeably between cuts. Look for:
- Ends beginning to flip unevenly
- Layers losing bounce
C. Long Hair (Below Shoulders)
Ideal Frequency: 8-12 weeks
Why: While length takes longer to grow, ends still need protection. Stretch time between cuts by:
✔ Using bond-building treatments
✔ Sleeping on silk pillowcases
✔ Dusting ends at home between visits
D. Curly & Coily Hair
Ideal Frequency: 8-12 weeks
Why: Curls hide damage well but need shaping to prevent:
- Triangular silhouette
- Shrinkage imbalance
- Single-strand knots
Claremont Curl Tip: Schedule a “shape-up” before summer to combat humidity-induced frizz.
3. Special Cases: When to Break the Rules
Growing Out Bangs
- First 4 Weeks: Trim every 2 weeks to train direction
- Transition Phase: Blend into face-framing layers at 6 weeks
Maintaining Colour-Treated Hair
- Balayage/Grow-Out: Trim every 10 weeks to keep ends healthy
- Vibrant Fashion Shades: 6-8 weeks to prevent faded, frayed ends
Post-Treatment Cuts
- After keratin/smoothing: Wait 2 weeks before trimming
- Post-bond repair: Schedule a micro-trim to seal repaired ends
4. 5 Signs You’re Overdue for a Cut
- Styling Takes Longer (hair won’t hold shape)
- Increased Shedding (split ends cause breakage)
- Dull-Looking Ends (light reflects poorly on damaged strands)
- Uneven Air-Drying (especially noticeable on bobs)
- Visible “White Dots” (early split ends at the tips)
5. Cape Town Climate Considerations
Our coastal weather demands special attention:
- Summer Humidity: Frizzy ends? Move trims up by 1-2 weeks
- Winter Dryness: Deep condition between cuts to prevent brittleness
- Wind & Salt Air: Protective styles (braids, buns) extend cut longevity
6. The Art of the Consultation: Finding Your Perfect Schedule
Top hairdressers in Cape Town recommend:
- Bring Inspiration Photos (helps stylists plan growth trajectory)
- Ask About “Dusting” (minimal length removal for damage control)
- Schedule Next Appointment Post-Cut (ensures you don’t forget)
Final Snip: Your Hair’s Happy Place
While guidelines help, remember: Your hair tells its own story. Whether you’re keeping a sharp pixie camera-ready or growing mermaid-length locks, consistency is key.
Ready for a Shape-Up? Our hair cutting specialists in Claremont create personalized plans for Cape Town’s unique lifestyle. Book your precision cut today—your future self will thank you!
Struggling with damaged or frizzy hair? Discover the best hair treatments – read our recent article here…