It’s one of the most repeated pieces of hair advice—“Trim your hair every six to eight weeks to make it grow faster.” But is there any truth to this? As stylists, we often find ourselves having to re-educate clients on what a trim actually does and how hair growth really works.
Hair Growth Starts at the Scalp, Not the Ends
Hair grows from the follicle at the scalp, not from the ends. Trimming does not send a signal to the root to grow hair faster. Instead, hair growth is determined by genetics, overall health, and scalp condition. On average, hair grows about half an inch per month, regardless of how often it is cut.
Why Trims Still Matter
Even though trimming won’t make hair grow faster, it does prevent breakage, which can give the illusion of slower growth. Split ends travel up the hair shaft, weakening the strands and leading to breakage. This results in hair that appears to stay the same length or even get shorter over time. Regular trims help maintain healthy ends, allowing the hair to retain length over time.
What to Tell Clients Who Want Longer Hair
Instead of focusing on frequent trims as a growth strategy, guide clients toward practices that actually support hair growth:
- Scalp health: Encourage scalp massages, proper cleansing, and hydration.
- Protective styling: Limit heat and harsh chemical processes that cause breakage.
- Strengthening treatments: Protein and moisture treatments help keep hair resilient.
- A balanced diet: Nutrients like biotin, collagen, and omega-3s support healthy hair growth.
The Emotional Connection to Trims
Many clients associate regular trims with a sense of control over their hair growth, even if the science doesn’t support it. As a stylist, it’s important to acknowledge their concerns while educating them on healthier strategies. Offering a “dusting” instead of a full trim or demonstrating how minimal cutting preserves length can help ease their hesitation.
Finding the Right Trim Schedule
Not every client needs a trim every six to eight weeks. The ideal frequency depends on their hair type, styling habits, and overall condition. Someone with heavily processed or heat-styled hair may need trims more often, while a client with strong, healthy hair can go longer between cuts. Customizing trim schedules based on individual needs ensures clients maintain the best hair health possible.
