The Struggles of Having Long Hair
We’ve all walked into a salon, sat in our stylist’s chairs, and had absolutely no idea how to describe the cut we saw on Tik Tok. If you need to describe how long you’d like your hair to be (without worrying about your stylist cutting off one too many inches), it’s important to start with a reference point.
Our hair length charts for all textures and cuts are the perfect images to save to your camera roll and point to when confusion sets in. As an added bonus, you’ll know that you're on the same page with your stylist about what “mid-back” means if you're both looking at the same picture. Whether you’re looking to grow your hair out or opt for a very short cut, let this hair length chart be your guide.
What To Consider Before Choosing A Hair Length
Hair Type
Your hair type plays a major role in how long or short your hair appears. If you have naturally straight hair, your strands will look their actual length. If you have waves or curls, however, your hair may appear a bit shorter than it actually is. This is because the kinks and bends in your hair can cause it to look slightly shorter. If you have a textured hair type, you should ask for a cut slightly longer than your goal length.
Face Shape
Certain haircuts are more flattering on certain face shapes, so it’s essential to identify which one is right for you before you commit to a new length. If you want to find the best haircut for your face shape, click here for our full guide.
Hair Goals
When it comes to cutting your hair, keep your long-term hair goals in mind. You won’t want to cut six inches off of your mane if you’re aiming to achieve waist-length hair.
How do you describe your hair length?
We know nothing is quite as paralyzing as sitting in the stylist’s chair being asked how much length you’d like to take off. If you’re struggling to describe the hair length you want to your stylist, take a look at the chart above. You can use a hair length chart to figure out what length you desire. You can also use this to describe exactly what you want to achieve to your stylist.
Before you head to the stylist, we also recommend gathering an inspiration photo or two so that they know exactly what you’re looking for. Keep scrolling for a more detailed chart breakdown for every single hair length.
Hair Length Chart: Short Hair
Buzz Cut
Edgy girls and those who don’t want to be slowed down by lengthy styling routines choose buzz cuts. For added panache, try incorporating a fantasy hair color into your look. This cut is all about freedom of expression.
Ear Length (Pixie)
If you have a spectacular bone structure you’re just dying to show off, a pixie cut or ear length cut is a great idea. Girls with curls will find it elevates their ringlets without any added effort—just what we like! The pixie cut is hard to beat in terms of classic cuts that don't go out of style.
If you’re searching for an effortless way to style your ear length cut, apply a bit of hair mousse like Redken Full Frame 07 All-Over Volumizing Mousse to give your look weightless volume.
Chin Length (Bob)
Forever the chicest of short cuts, chin length hair (aka the classic bob) should fall just at your jawline. Try an asymmetrical bob for added drama, or stick to a French-inspired style that makes you look extra sophisticated.
Hair Length Chart: Medium Hair
Shoulder Length
Shoulder length cuts are universally flattering (think the lob or a modern shag). These medium length haircuts toethe line between bob and long hair, enabling you to cherry-pick the best elements of both. As an added bonus, it's the perfect middle ground when you're growing out a buzz cut or pixie look.
If you opt for a cut with lots of layers, enhance your natural texture with a texturizing spray like Matrix Style Link Texture Builder Messy Finishing Spray. This aerosol spray gives hair frizz protection, airy texture, and hold.
Armpit Length
If you’re growing out your hair and just passed the awkward stage, you’ve hit armpit length. This medium length haircut is a favorite for girls with textured hair since curls absolutely thrive with a few extra inches. Try armpit length if you're looking to experiment with your styling. If you have curly hair, use a styling product like Mizani True Textures Curl Enhancing Lotion to add definition to your ringlets and enhance your texture.
Hair Length Chart: Long Hair
What length of hair is considered long?
If your strands reach past your shoulders, it’s considered long. You can opt for a mid-back length cut or grow it out to your tailbone for extralong hair.
Mid-Back Length
Swishing around your hair and pretending you’re an Instagram model as you take selfies? This coveted length is known as mid-back, a real stunner for thick, coarse hair textures. Add a shine serum or a hair oil like Kérastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Original Hair Oil you’ll really be set for goddess status. This formula is made with five luxurious oils to give your locks intense shine and nourishment.
Tailbone Length
News flash: You probably won't have ankle-length hair, but long hair that reaches your tailbone is totally doable. If you want to keep your strands strong as you grow them out, pick up the Redken Extreme Length Shampoo and Conditioner With Biotin system. This shampoo and conditioner strengthens damaged hair and helps it grow longer and stronger.
Interested in getting your hair cut or trying a new look? Use our salon locator to book an appointment with a stylist near you.
