Growing out a pixie cut can be a challenging experience, but it also presents a unique opportunity to experiment with different styles and looks as your hair transitions. As your pixie cut starts to grow, you’ll encounter various stages where the length is neither short enough to maintain the original style nor long enough to create a new one easily. In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips and styling techniques to help you manage and style your growing pixie cut with confidence.
Understanding the Growth Stages
Before diving into specific styling tips, it’s important to understand the growth stages your pixie cut will go through. Each stage presents its own set of challenges, but with the right approach, you can make the most of your transitioning hair.
The Short Pixie Stage
During the initial phase, your hair is still relatively short. It’s important to keep the back and sides trimmed to avoid a mullet-like shape. This stage is all about maintaining the neatness of your pixie while allowing the top and front sections to grow out.
The Shaggy Pixie Stage
As your hair starts to grow out, the layers may begin to lose their shape, leading to a shaggy appearance. This is where texturizing products become your best friend. Adding texture can help to enhance the shape of your hair and give it a more controlled, stylish look.
The Bob-Length Stage
Once your hair reaches chin length, it’s essentially transitioned into a bob. At this stage, you can start experimenting with various bob hairstyles, such as the classic bob, the layered bob, or the asymmetrical bob. Regular trims are still essential to maintain shape and health.
The Long Bob (Lob) Stage
When your hair surpasses the chin-length bob, you’re entering the lob (long bob) stage. This length offers a lot of versatility in styling, from sleek and straight looks to beachy waves.
Styling Tips for the Short Pixie Stage
During the early stages of growing out your pixie cut, the key is to maintain regular trims to keep the back and sides in check. Here are some styling tips for this stage:
Keep It Neat and Textured
To avoid your hair looking unkempt, use a lightweight texturizing spray or mousse to add volume and texture to the top. This will give your hair a fuller appearance and help to elongate the style.
Accessorize Wisely
Headbands, clips, and pins can be used to manage awkward lengths and add a touch of style to your look. A sleek headband can help to keep longer bangs or front sections out of your face, while decorative pins can add flair to an otherwise simple style.
Play with Partings
Changing your parting can make a significant difference in how your growing pixie cut looks. Experiment with a deep side part for a more dramatic look or a middle part for a softer, more balanced style.
Use a Flat Iron for Polish
A small flat iron can help to smooth out any unruly sections and give your hair a more polished finish. Remember to use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage.
Styling Tips for the Shaggy Pixie Stage
As your pixie cut enters the shaggy phase, it can be challenging to maintain a cohesive style. However, with the right products and techniques, you can turn this stage into a stylish opportunity:
Embrace the Shag
Lean into the shaggy look by using a texturizing spray or wax to enhance your hair’s natural movement. This stage is all about embracing a more undone, effortless style.
Braid or Twist Sections
Small braids or twists can help to control sections of hair that are growing out awkwardly. You can braid a small section near your hairline or twist the front pieces back and secure them with bobby pins.
Add Layers or Bangs
Consider visiting your stylist to add some soft layers or bangs that can help blend the growing sections. Curtain bangs, in particular, can be a great option as they work well with various lengths and add a stylish touch.
Experiment with Hair Accessories
Scarves, bandanas, and hair clips can be used to manage the shaggy phase. A scarf can be tied around your head to create a chic, bohemian look, while clips can help to keep longer sections out of your face.
Styling Tips for the Bob-Length Stage
Once your hair reaches a bob length, you have a whole new range of styling options. Here’s how to make the most of this versatile stage:
Go for a Classic Bob
The classic bob is a timeless style that works well with a variety of face shapes. Ask your stylist to trim your hair into a sleek bob that frames your face nicely.
Try an Asymmetrical Bob
If you’re looking for something a bit edgier, consider an asymmetrical bob. This style features one side longer than the other and adds a modern twist to the traditional bob.
Incorporate Waves
Soft waves can add volume and texture to your bob. Use a curling wand or flat iron to create loose waves, then tousle them with your fingers for a relaxed, beachy vibe.
Use a Round Brush for Volume
When blow-drying, use a round brush to lift your roots and create volume. This technique will give your bob a fuller, more voluminous appearance.
Add a Fringe
A fringe or bangs can completely transform the look of your bob. Whether you opt for blunt bangs, side-swept bangs, or curtain bangs, adding a fringe can give your style a fresh update.
SEE ALSO: What is the Best Haircut for Medium-Length Curly Hair?
Styling Tips for the Long Bob (Lob) Stage
The long bob, or lob, is one of the most versatile hairstyles. Here’s how to style your lob as your pixie cut continues to grow out:
Straight and Sleek
A sleek, straight lob is a chic and polished look. Use a flat iron to smooth out your hair and finish with a shine serum for a glossy finish.
Beachy Waves
Beachy waves are perfect for a casual, effortless look. Use a curling wand to create loose waves, then break them up with your fingers and apply a texturizing spray for that beachy effect.
Half-Up, Half-Down Styles
As your hair gets longer, half-up, half-down styles become easier to achieve. Try a half-up bun or a half-up twist for a stylish way to keep your hair out of your face.
Use a Deep Side Part
A deep side part can add drama and sophistication to your lob. This style works particularly well if you have a longer side-swept fringe or bangs.
Add Layers for Movement
If your lob is feeling heavy, ask your stylist to add some layers. Layers can help to lighten the load and add movement to your hair, making it easier to style.
General Tips for Managing a Pixie Cut Growing Out
While each growth stage requires its own approach, there are some general tips that can help you manage your growing pixie cut throughout the entire process:
Regular Trims Are Essential
Even though you’re growing out your hair, regular trims are crucial. Trimming the ends will keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, which can slow down the growth process.
Stay Patient and Positive
Growing out a pixie cut takes time and patience. There will be moments when you feel frustrated with the process, but remember that this is temporary. Keep experimenting with styles, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
Use Quality Hair Products
Invest in high-quality hair products that suit your hair type and texture. A good shampoo and conditioner, along with styling products like texturizing sprays, waxes, and serums, can make a big difference in how your hair looks and feels.
Consider Hair Extensions
If you’re struggling with certain stages of the growth process, consider using clip-in hair extensions. Extensions can add length and volume where needed, allowing you to experiment with different styles even while growing out your hair.
Protect Your Hair from Heat Damage
As you style your hair with heat tools like flat irons, curling wands, or blow dryers, always use a heat protectant spray. This will minimize damage and keep your hair healthy as it grows.
Conclusion
Growing out a pixie cut can be a rewarding journey if approached with creativity and care. Each stage of growth offers new opportunities to experiment with different styles and looks. By understanding the growth stages and applying the appropriate styling techniques, you can navigate the process with confidence and style. Remember to stay patient, embrace the changes, and enjoy the versatility that comes with each new length. With the right mindset and tools, you can make the transition from a pixie cut to longer hair an exciting and fashionable experience.