6 Ways I Prepared for My Big Chop

Honestly why didn’t y’all tell me to cut my hair sooner?!

I hope everyone’s new year is off to a great start because I know mine is! Although the world is definitely  going through some things because wtf but anyways! I was able to knock two things off my goal list, go me! (Read my goals here)

Doing the big chop is something I’ve thought about for quite some time now. I am so happy that I’ve done it and I won’t lie to you and say I wasn’t terrified with just the thought of cutting my hair, because I was, but it’s something so freeing to change? But anyways, if you’ve been thinking about cutting your hair for the new year or just because, here are 6 ways I prepared for my big chop.

6 Ways I Prepared for My Big Chop

1. Ask Yourself Why 

Now this doesn’t have to be some profound philosophical reason, it could be simply because you want something different or because you are simply bored. For me it was a mixture of “I don’t really mess with my natural hair so why not, I wonder what I’d look like with short hair”. I think we (black community) put so much emphasis on black hair being long it feels like you have to stay in that box if your hair is like that but I wanted to experience something a little different. 

2. Research Different Cuts for Your Face Shape

Tapered. Fade. Curly cut. There are so many styles out there it’s CRAZY. But it’s so necessary to look at them so you have an idea exactly what you are getting yourself into. Every cut will look cute but some cuts will look cuter than others. I encourage you to visit allll the blog sites and Pinterest boards that have pictures of people with super cute cuts.

3. Youtube University

Youtube will be your best friend (if it isn’t already) as you will spend hours upon hours looking at people go through the process of chopping their hair and telling their stories of why, recommending products and going through the styling process. Some will be very empowering but honestly some will have you questioning yourself as if this is the right decision too. It gives you a chance to think if this is something you really want to do.

4. Instagram Stalk Local Barbers 

Luckily I am a part of this FaceBook group called Black Book LA where people put you in touch with whatever you’re looking for. There was a post calling for a talented black barber. The comment sections were filled with insta names so that obviously meant I was to look at every last profile. It’s important to find someone whose work resonates with you and someone you may like as your new look is literally in their hands. I was BLESSED to find Miss Nina Simone (@ninasimonehairco) and she got me together! If you’re in LA I recommend you stop by with her and experience sitting in her chair. Not only did she give me a bomb ass cut, she prayed for me before she started. Honestly that put me at such ease, whew, yeah find the right barber!

5. Understand There Will Be New Challenges

The first time I washed my hair I was like omg this is a breeze! Amen! But then it was time to style my hair and I had a few wtf moments. My leave in conditioner wasn’t moisturizing right, the gel barely kept a curl and I just got so frustrated. This is a completely new world and it will be a learning process just like it was when working with your hair when it was longer. New products and styling methods will have to be applied, so you have to have that patience for yourself and be down to learn a new thing or two.

6. Remember That Hair Grows Back

The beautiful thing about all of this is that you have the choice of it being a temporary phase. Worst case scenario you don’t like your cut (such a rare thing), there are so many tools like wigs and head wraps to wear as your hair starts growing. Then, once your hair is long enough you can get protective styling and watch your hair really start swangin! Cutting your hair is not the end of the world and can be back before you know it.

So, do you think you’re ready for the big chop?

And those who are already about that baldie life, how did you prepare?

Check out my low porosity hair routine here.