Is It Time for a Trim? Here’s How to Tell

Katie Burns
Apr 28
2 min read

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to put off a haircut. But when you skip trims for too long, your hair can start showing signs of stress, and styling it gets harder than it needs to be.

If you're wondering whether it’s time to schedule your next trim, here are five signs your hair might be sending you an SOS.

1. Split Ends Are Taking Over

A sure sign it’s time for a trim? Split ends. When the outer layer of your hair gets worn down- whether from heat, brushing, or everyday stress- your strands start to fray and lose their smoothness. Regular trims help stop split ends from traveling higher up the hair shaft, keeping your hair looking healthy, soft, and shiny.

2. Your Hair Tangles Constantly

Healthy hair tends to glide through your fingers (and brushes and styling tools) easily. If you’re finding that your hair tangles more often or feels rough, it could be a sign that your ends are damaged and need a clean up.

3. Your Shape Has Disappeared

Layers feeling limp or heavy? Curls falling flat or losing definition at the ends? If your hair isn’t holding its shape like it used to, a trim can bring your style back to life. A quick shape up makes a huge difference in how your hair looks and feels.

4. Your Hair Feels Heavy and Flat

Even if you have fine hair, overgrown ends can make your hair feel heavy, weighed down, and lifeless. Trimming off that extra weight helps bring back bounce, movement, and volume, without needing to load up on extra styling products.

5. You’re Using Way More Product

If you’re reaching for more creams, sprays, or oils than usual just to make your hair behave, it might be a sign your hair needs a refresh, not just more product. Freshly trimmed ends tend to style more easily and need less intervention.

How Often Should You Trim?

Time flies, and it’s easy to lose track. If it’s been more than 8-12 weeks since your last haircut, it’s probably time to schedule your next appointment. While the ideal timing between trims can vary depending on your hair and goals, I generally recommend booking a trim at least once a quarter.

I always offer to schedule my clients’ next appointment before they leave the salon. They’re welcome to reschedule if needed later, but once you walk out the door, life gets busy- and it’s all too easy to let self care slip down the list!