Hair Management

Why did I cut my hair?

1. I’ve been losing large quantities of hair since the beginning of the year. I’ve been using Nioxin shampoo and conditioner, only washing my hair 2x a week (and only 1x a week for the past 2 months), and using Rogaine (it’s called Regain in Australia!) My primary care physician recommended prenatal vitamins after giving me a diagnosis of male pattern baldness. After a month, I visited an alternative doctor who gave me a list of supplements that are absolutely disgusting. When I empty the vacuum, there is so much hair, it’s like I’ve vacuumed up a small dog. This has caused great distress in my life.
2. I had dyed my hair a vibrant purple for the Taylor Swift Eras tour movie premier and the gray roots were seriously showing. The sides were fading to a strawberry pink so I had several colors and patterns on my head which were becoming less attractive.
3. At lunch with my family-of-origin, I noted the nice buzz cut on my brother and said that I was interested in a similar cut and acknowledged that he cut his own hair. Sister pointed out that he had cut his 3 boys’ hair as they grew up and that I would look good with a buzz cut. I suggested that he bring the clippers to our Airbnb the next day to cut my hair.
4. It was a family experience, something for us to remember.
5. It has been noted that women get their hair cut to demonstrate control over their life. I had always associated eating disorders with women executing control over their life, but the control issue is something that fits well with this situation.
6. Trauma response.

When my brother showed up for lunch, I asked if he brought his clippers and he rolled his eyes and said yes. He was hesitant I think because he thought I’d be mad afterwards. My sister cut the pony tail and then brother started buzzing. Apparently my hair has multiple hair licks and whorls so brother was challenged to get an even buzz but he took great care as he did when he was a baker decorating a cake. After the hair cut, my father said “she looked rag-tag before but she looks really good now.” Later that night, he called and used the word “unkempt” relating to how I looked before the hair cut. Thanks dad.

Do you know what it feels like if you have a pony tail that’s too tight? For some reason that’s what my head feels like now even though there’s no hair on it, which makes no sense. DH says it will take time to get used to the androgynous look but does appreciate that I can present many “glass half full” scenarios:

1. Since I’ll be traveling a lot in the next 7 months, this hair will be easier to take care of
2. Only washing my hair once a week will be no problem
3. Rogaine will be easier to apply
4. Wearing wigs will be easier for cosplay
5. I had been getting ready to buy a new curling iron but now it’s moot

I’ve never had hair this short so I now need to wear a beanie when hiking and scarves to keep my neck warm. I’m glad I cut my hair and have no plan to keep it or let it grow out. I think I’ll figure it out as it happens.

@jade.in.sb

I've never had my hair so short! This will be great for travel.

♬ Live Your Beautiful Life – Gray Griggs