Cutting Your Hair
This is another tricky one. There are many, myself included, who cut their own hair at home. Full disclosure here, I have completely butchered my hair before. But, I have also gotten the hang of it and I know how to maintain my cut at home. And just for the sake of argument, I will point out that I have gone to a licensed professional and had my hair cut come out looking like asymmetrical when that was NOT the intended style.
There are two sides to this coin, ladies. For many women, cutting their own hair is where they draw the line. Some fear the outcome and having to live with a bald spot in the middle of their heads, while others won’t even consider taking the scissors to their heads at home.
As mentioned above, however, the natural hair community has taught us all that through trial and error and with much research and self-education, pretty much anything can be done by a kitchen beautician.
I will say that cutting your own hair is an advanced skill and if you are just starting to maintain your own hair, please do seek out a stylist who is skilled at cutting hair so that you will get the outcome you desire.
Routine Maintenance
Washing, conditioning, deep conditioning* and styling your hair, can all be done safely at home. This one is pretty straight forward. Consult your stylist and work with them to come up with a schedule and set of products that will keep your hair healthy and strong in between salon visits.
Shampoos and conditioners come in an array of different price points. They are readily available and the side effects of a poor choice at this level is something that can be easily fixed if you are also still visiting your stylist for major processes or treatments.
It is also easy to tweak your routine when it comes to store bought products such as deep conditioners or moisturizers. Outside of long-term, cumulative damage, you should be fine buying, testing and applying products that cover the basics of hair care at home.
All in all, what you choose to do to your own hair is ultimately up to you. If you feel uncomfortable doing anything, then you should definitely seek out a licensed, professional hair stylist who can take care of your hair for you.
If you want to go commando, there is no one stopping you! Everything you need is available and your bathroom is waiting. Just remember that whatever happens to your hair will be at your own hands. The decision of how much you do at home and how much you have a professional do at a salon should remain between you, your stylist and your hair.
I’m done with DYI.