It’s one of the most common hair myths out there.
“If you cut your hair, it’ll grow faster.”
We hear about it all the time, but is it true?
Spoiler alert: no, cutting your hair doesn’t make it grow faster.
Of course, that doesn’t mean regular trims aren’t important. In fact, getting your hair cut regularly plays a key role in supporting healthier, longer, more beautiful hair over time.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or training to become a professional hairstylist, here’s the science-backed truth behind the myth and why trims are still your hair’s best friend.
Hair Growth Starts at the Scalp, Not the Ends
Hair growth is controlled by the follicles in your scalp.
Each follicle goes through its own growth cycle, which includes a growing phase, resting phase, and shedding phase.
Cutting the hair doesn’t affect this cycle at all. So why do people swear by haircuts to grow their hair out? Let’s dig deeper.
Why Trimming Still Matters
While cutting your hair doesn’t actually speed up growth from the roots, it helps prevent breakage, split ends, and thinning at the bottom.
That means your hair stays healthier and fuller-looking, making it seem like it’s growing faster.
Here’s how regular trims help:
- Prevents split ends from traveling up the hair shaft
- Reduces breakage, helping you retain more length over time
- Keeps styles looking fresh, polished, and professional
- Improves manageability and reduces frizz
Think of trims like maintenance on a car, your hair will still run without it, but it’ll feel rougher, look duller, and be more likely to “break down.”
How Often Should You Trim Your Hair?
How often should you go about cutting your hair?It depends on your hair type, style, and goals. Here’s a general guideline:
- Every 6–8 weeks for short cuts and layered styles
- Every 8–12 weeks for medium to long hair
- Every 10–16 weeks for natural, curly, or textured hair (especially if you’re trying to grow it out)
If your hair feels dry at the ends or you’re seeing lots of split ends, that’s your cue, it’s time to book an appointment.
Trimming Tips for Aspiring Stylists
For students learning hairstyling, it’s important to educate clients.
Many are hesitant to trim their hair if they’re trying to grow it—but reminding them that skipping trims often leads to more damage can help them understand the long-term benefit.
Here’s what to say: “A small trim now prevents a big chop later.”
And if you’re helping clients with damaged hair? Pair trims with deep conditioning, protein treatments, or a healthy hair care routine to support growth from scalp to ends.
Bottom Line: Healthy Hair Grows Stronger, Not Faster
So, while regular haircuts won’t make your hair grow faster, they absolutely help your hair look and feel healthier, giving you better length retention and a more beautiful result in the long run.
At Modern College, we teach aspiring hairstylists not just how to cut and style, but how to educate clients and support long-term hair health. It’s all part of the professional skills that build trust, loyalty, and real results in the salon.