Ah, the age-old haircare question: how often should I be getting a trim? Ask five different stylists and you might get five slightly different answers. Meanwhile, your ends are out here fraying like a pair of old jeans, and you're wondering if you're overdue—or just being peer-pressured by the beauty industry again.
Let’s set the record straight. Whether you’re growing it out, keeping it short, rocking curls, or living the flat iron life, here’s what you really need to know about trims—and how often your hair actually needs one.
First Things First: Why Trims Even Matter
Let’s set the record straight once and for all: trimming your hair does not make it grow faster. That’s a myth. Hair grows from the scalp, not the ends. But trimming does help your hair look healthier and can prevent breakage from traveling up the strand—which, in turn, makes it feel like it’s growing better because it’s not snapping off.
Translation: if you want long, healthy hair, skipping trims might actually slow your progress.
The 6-8 Week Rule: Is It Real?
You’ve probably heard the golden rule: get a trim every 6 to 8 weeks. And for some people, that’s solid advice. But the truth is, how often you need a trim depends on your hair type, style, and goals.
Let’s break it down.
Trending Haircuts for 2025 — and How Often to Trim Them
Keeping your haircut fresh is just as important as choosing the right one. Here’s how often you should really book a trim based on the most in-demand styles of 2025:
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The Boho Bob
Textured, layered, and intentionally undone — this cut loses shape if it grows out too much.
Trim every 6–8 weeks to keep the movement soft and flattering. -
The Butterfly Cut
With long layers and lots of volume, this style looks best when layers are defined.
Trim every 8–10 weeks, with light dustings to maintain bounce without losing length. -
The Shag (or Modern Shaggy Layers)
A major comeback cut, especially paired with bangs or a halo fringe.
Trim every 6–8 weeks so layers don’t collapse into frizz. -
The Halo Fringe
As spotted on Dakota Johnson, this face-framing fringe makes a statement — but it grows fast.
Trim every 3–5 weeks to keep it intentional, not accidental. -
The Italian Bob
A sleeker, chin-grazing version of the bob, trending for its polished edge.
Trim every 5–7 weeks to preserve the sharpness of the line. -
Long, Lived-In Layers
Perfect for pairing with Boho Blonde, these air-dried layers are forgiving.
Trim every 10–12 weeks, or sooner if split ends start showing.
If You’re Growing Your Hair Out
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to trim every month. In fact, every 10–12 weeks is usually plenty. The key is keeping split ends in check without losing too much length. Ask your stylist for a “dusting” (aka a very light trim) to keep things healthy while still gaining inches.
Pro tip: Tell your stylist you’re growing it out—or you might walk out with a “fresh start” you weren’t emotionally prepared for.
If You Have Layers or a Specific Shape to Maintain
Got bangs, layers, a bob, or anything that needs structure? You’ll want to trim every 4–8 weeks to keep the shape looking intentional instead of accidental. Hair grows about half an inch per month, and that’s just enough to mess with your cut’s vibe.
Short hair in particular loses its shape fast, so regular trims are kind of the deal you make with the hair gods when you go for that edgy pixie.
If You Heat Style or Color Often
Flat irons, bleach, highlights, and frequent blowouts all take a toll. Even if you’re gentle, your ends might be screaming for help sooner than you think. If you're seeing frizz, dryness, or lots of little flyaways at the ends, it's probably time.
For chemically treated or frequently styled hair, trimming every 6–10 weeks can help prevent split ends from taking over your entire head.
If You Have Natural, Curly, or Coily Hair
Curly hair is a different ballgame. Because curls naturally shrink and coil, split ends and damage might not be as visibly obvious—but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Most curly and coily hair types can go 8–12 weeks (sometimes longer!) between trims, especially if heat styling is minimal.
That said, listen to your hair. If your ends feel dry, you’re getting a lot of knots or single-strand fairy knots, or your curls aren’t bouncing like they used to, it’s probably time.
Signs You’re Due for a Trim (No Matter the Schedule)
If you’re not one to keep track of weeks (relatable), here are some signs it might be time:
- Your ends feel rough or frayed
- Hair tangles more easily than usual
- You’re seeing lots of breakage or shedding
- Split ends are visible (or traveling up the strand)
- Your cut looks shapeless or flat
- Your hair is increasingly harder to style
Bottom line? If your hair feels harder to manage, looks dull, or doesn’t style the way it used to, it’s probably time for a trim, so book now!
