How Often Should You Trim Your Hair?

People have a lot of opinions on when to trim hair. Some swear by a strict monthly schedule, while others wait a year (sometimes more) for a snip. Most hair experts say six to eight weeks is the sweet spot, but do you need to stick to this timeframe? Are there other rules to consider?

There are no strict schedules for getting trims. The frequency will vary based on factors, like your desired hair length and the condition of your locks. If you want to keep your hair looking its best, follow this guide.

Regular haircuts are a must for those with a shorter ‘do. Typically, hair grows about one and a half centimeters per month, which means the best time to prune it would be every four weeks. Some short hairstyles, like the French bob and variations of pixie cuts, do require more upkeep. In this case, you should have it cut every three weeks to keep it looking tight.

Having long hair gives you more wiggle room when it comes to trimming. Since the ends fall anywhere between the shoulders and chest area, you have more flexibility. Hairstyles of this length should be lopped off at six to 10-week intervals. However, you may need to refresh any face-framing layers in between appointments.

It’s a myth that textured hair growth rate is slower than straight hair. It's just less apparent when hair is longer because of coiling strands. Hence, it may feel like it takes forever to gain inches.

The challenge with curls is that they tend to become flat on top and frizzy at the bottom as they get longer – a phenomenon known as the “triangle effect.” As such, the golden rule for textured locks is to trim hair every 12 weeks. Also, use Sunsilk Smooth & Manageable Shampoo to make your curls five times smoother and tangle-free.

The idea of trimming your strands when you’re growing them out seems counterintuitive, but it actually makes way for longer, healthier strands. Waiting too long between cuts can lead to hair breakage, which means you'll end up having to cut off much more than you’d like the next time you sit on a salon chair.

If you don’t want to remove too much length, the best approach is to schedule trims every three to four months, especially if your hair gets dry at the tips. To help nourish your locks as they grow, try Sunsilk Strong & Long Shampoo. It has biotin and aloe vera for 3x stronger and thicker-looking hair.

There can be exceptions to these hair-trimming rules. Generally speaking, you can stretch the schedule as long as you want if your strands are in good shape. However, you’re past due for a cut if your hair:

Is difficult to comb through

Feels rough to the touch

Has frayed ends that look thinner and lighter in color than the rest of the hair

Lacks elasticity (breaks off easily)

Falls flat even after heat styling

Sadly, you can’t repair damaged hair. The only way to prevent further damage is by chopping off the dead parts. So, note for your future self that it’s crucial to trim hair routinely before it needs saving.