Do You Need a Hairstyle Makeover?

Whether you've had the same hairstyle for years or just a short time, it may be time for a change. When is a good time to change your hairstyle? Here are a few clues that it's time for an updated look:

• You've had the same style for so long it's become popular, again.

• You pull your hair back. Everyday. It's just easier.

• Styling your hair is depressing.

• You can describe your color with words like mousey, dull, and lifeless.

• No one compliments your hairstyle, ever.

• You find yourself lusting over other people's hairstyles.

• Your self esteem could use a pick-me-up

• You've just experienced a major life changing event (i.e. new job, weight loss, new school, new town, new year, major goals reached).

• You've recently experienced a hard time in life. A new look may be a great way to start to turn things around

You all know who you are. It's time for a change. Here are some tips for getting a great hairstyle makeover.

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Make an Appointment with a Stylist You Trust
When you're changing your hairstyle you'll want to pick a hairstylist that you can trust.

After all, getting a new look requires that you put your identity in the hands of another person. If you don't have a stylist that you can trust to transform your look, or you're less than confident about your current stylist, it's time to go searching. How do you find a great hairstylist?

• Ask around. Ask your friends, co-workers, or family members that have great hair who styles their hair.

• See a stranger with amazing hair? Ask her who her stylist is.

• Ask for a recommendation on Facebook.

• Check out websites like Yelp! and Cityvoter for reviews in your area.

Know Your Limits
When you go in for your makeover, whether you're making over your color, cut, or both, it's important to know what you like, and to know what where your limits lie. Look through photos of hairstyles, print them, clip them, and take them with you to your appointment. It's true that a picture says a thousand words. I think it's important to give your hairstylist a little creative freedom to make suggestions, but it's more important that you get a new style that you love. Here are some things to think about:

• Bangs. Changing your fringe may be just the ticket to a great hairstyle change. Bangs, when done right, are stylish and can compliment just about any face shape. Whether you love bangs or hate them, make sure you communicate the things you like and dislike when talking to your stylist.

• Layers. One of the biggest mistakes people make about their hairstyle is fear of layers. As we get older, layers can frame the face in a complimentary way, create depth, enhance body, and define a desirable shape in your hair. When layers are properly chosen layers can make thick hair easier to manage and give thin hair a fuller appearance.

• Bob. The bob haircut is here to stay. It can be as edgy or simple as your personal style. Bob haircuts are easy to style, look polished with just a little effort, and can compliment just about any hair type and face shape. It's also a great style to consider when you want to try something shorter, but don't want to commit to "too short".

• Short hair. Short hair can be sexy, feminine, edgy, romantic, and beautiful. When you're ready for something easy to style with a lot of personality, a short haircut can be a great answer. If you're hair has always been long, short hair can be a refreshing new start. Make sure you discuss your short hair ideas with your stylist and ask her to help you decide what type of short haircut will best compliment your face shape, hair type, and individual style.

• Color. Nothing can change your look like a fresh new color, face brightening highlights, or a lowlight with depth. Once again, it's equally important to talk to your stylist about colors you love and colors you hate. Do you like red? How red? Does the thought of blond hair make your stomach turn? Define dark. Make sure that you and your stylist are speaking the same language when choosing your color. Her definition of copper and yours could be very different.

• Maintenance. Maintaining your new look could mean the difference in getting something you love and something you hate. Talk to your stylist about regular cut and color maintenance to keep your look fresh. Is this new look budget friendly? Do you have the products and tools necessary to style your new look?

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Own Your New Updated Look
When completely changing your look, it can be a shocking experience, especially if you've had the same hairstyle for a long time (or since the beginning of time). Work with your new style and try not to go back to the same habits that pushed you to a makeover to begin with. Take note of the things you like about your new style, the things that aren't working for you, and keep communicating with your hair stylist. It may take a few appointments to get every detail just right. Above all, enjoy a new, fresh look. Show it off, have fun, and let your new hairstyle inspire an overall new image and a new improved you. Experiment with new makeup colors and perhaps a new outfit. You'll find that a new hairstyle can just be the beginning of a brand new you.

By Kendra Aarhus

Women's Hairstyles Expert, about.com