When the coronavirus pandemic struck the United States, like many, I was gripped by fear and anxiety. As the West Coast went into lockdown and schools closed nationwide, uncertainty loomed large. Businesses shuttered, and for many, work became a distant memory. Amidst worries about health and finances, one question lingered in my mind: What will become of my hair?
For those of us who depend on regular haircuts to maintain our confidence and style, the lockdown was particularly challenging. Instead of demanding that my stylist return to work, I decided to take matters into my own clippers. Judging by my social media feed filled with DIY hair transformation photos, I’m not alone in this endeavor. Some results were surprisingly good, while others were simply fodder for memes.
Rather than join the ranks of those who prioritize their hairstyles over public safety, I opted to embrace my uneven cut. Before the lockdown, I had even sent a desperate message to my stylist, hoping for one last appointment. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out, and I attempted to trim the sides myself, thinking that would suffice.
As the weeks of quarantine dragged on, my hair began to resemble a Chia Pet. With the kids at home and tensions running high, I finally snapped and decided to go all in with a mohawk. I craved change, a sense of normalcy, and the thrill of doing something—even if it was just with my hair.
I’ve been cautious with my clippers, avoiding the top and back of my head, but I’ve made some brave choices to recapture that fresh-cut feeling. The results aren’t perfect, but they’re an improvement. Many people, like me, have come to realize just how skilled our stylists are. After essential living expenses, my haircuts rank high on my budget for a reason. Justine Marjan, a stylist, advises anyone considering a DIY cut to weigh their options carefully. If you can wait, she suggests using restorative hair products instead of taking risks with scissors.
If the urge to cut your hair is too strong, Marjan recommends starting small and resisting the temptation to grab the kitchen scissors. “They won’t provide a clean cut and could lead to uneven lines,” she warns.
Despite the plethora of YouTube tutorials available for DIY haircuts, some of us must recognize our limits. Not everyone can successfully navigate the intricacies of self-haircutting. There have been plenty of regrettable self-haircuts during this pandemic, but some have turned out surprisingly well. Many parents have ventured to let their kids try their hand at cutting hair, with decent results!
For some parents, dyeing their children’s hair has also been a bonding experience—one that could be forgiven even if it gets a little out of hand. In these tough times, cutting my hair has become a small act of self-care. While my stylist has advised against using clippers, I find it hard to resist. Until I can receive a professional cut, my clippers will remain within reach.
I may not regret my choices, but I know I’ll owe my stylist a generous tip when we finally reconnect. And if you’ve made a mess of your own hair or someone else’s, you might want to prepare for a financial surprise of your own!
For more insights on self-care during challenging times, check out our other blog post at Home Insemination Kit or learn more about home insemination through this trusted source. If you’re seeking resources on infertility and pregnancy, the CDC offers an excellent guide found here.
Summary
As the pandemic forced many into lockdown, hair care became a significant concern for those used to regular salon visits. Many turned to DIY haircuts, leading to mixed results. While some enjoyed the experience, others faced regrettable outcomes. Embracing change through self-care, individuals found solace in cutting their hair, despite the risks involved.