7 Ways To Put Off A Haircut If You're Lazy

Haircuts can be fun, exciting, but really scary at the same time. We all have a point where we look in the mirror and say "I need to get a haircut," but dread actually having to do it. For me, it's when my hair reaches around the middle of my back. This is also around the time when I've grown enough hair to probably do some damage with a swinging ponytail.

But why are we so reluctant?! Getting a haircut is usually a bit of a relief. Your split ends are gone. Your head feels lighter. It's easier to wash, quicker to dry, and you might even shed less. But cutting your hair can also be a pretty big deal, especially if you're cutting a lot off. To everyone out there who knows they need a haircut, but can't bring themselves to do it just yet, I understand you.

Read more: The 10 Best Hair Clips For Thick Hair In 2022

If you've had long hair for a while, short hair can take some adjusting. And if you get the wrong haircut, it can be awful. You could get end up with a cut that's shorter than you wanted, and you might realize too late that you can't put your hair up at the gym anymore. Or maybe you'll cut bangs on a whim, and realize later that you can't stand hair on your face.

I'm an advocate for haircut research. I like to know things, like if braids are still going to be an option with my new length. But no one has time to spend hours scrolling through hairstyle options online. Whenever I need a haircut, it takes a couple weeks before I decide on what I want.

In the meantime, here are seven things you can do with your long hair if you want to avoid a haircut.

1. Start With Damage Control

Marula Oil Rare Oil Intensive Masque, $45, Walgreens

Split ends are pretty common, especially in longer hair. They can be caused by hair-dryers, flat irons, curling irons, and even just by overly harsh brushing. Because they make your hair feel rough and look frizzy, they should be one of the first things you address if you want to manage long hair. Consider using leave-in conditioners, like Marula Oil, or doing a weekly hair mask, like this one.

2. Fake Having Short Hair

Why not? There are tons of hairstyles that create posh and sophisticated looking faux bobs. Try this one.

3. Try All The Braids

Braids are fantastic at keeping your hair out of the way. And the ability to braid your hair is sometimes sacrificed when you get a cool pixie cut. Take the opportunity, while you still can, to try every fancy braid you've ever wanted to.

Oscar Blandi Braid Paste, $25, Birchbox

4. Curl Your Hair

If your hair has reached the point where there's just so much of it that it's overwhelming your body, embrace it. Curls will make you hair feel shorter, but at the same time, will make it look voluminous and fun.

amika (mod)ern curler and clutch, $50, Birchbox

5. Try A New Updo

Updos are pretty hard to do with short hair, so you should try some out while you can. It serves a dual purpose: You'll look awesome in a hairstyle you might not be able to do for a while, and your hair will be tucked away and neat all day.

6. Consider Donating

If you're planning to cut off 10 inches or more, think about donating it. There are several organizations, like Locks of Love, that would love to turn your hair into a wig.

7. Do Some Research On Hair Extensions, Just In Case

It's never a bad idea to think ahead. In case you try something experimental, and end up really regretting it, you should think about some back up plans.

Clip-In Real Hair Extensions, $133, Sally Beauty

Want more style tips? Check out the video below, and be sure to subscribe to Bustle’s YouTube page for more hacks and tricks!