We’ve all walked into a salon, sat in our stylist’s chairs, and had absolutely no idea how to explain the cut we saw on TikTok. If you need to describe how long you’d like your hair to be (without worrying about your stylist cutting off one too many inches), it’s important to start with a reference point.
Our hair length charts for all textures and cuts are the perfect images to save to your camera roll and point to when confusion sets in. As a bonus, you’ll know that you're on the same page with your stylist about what “mid-back” means if you're both looking at the same picture. Whether you want to grow your hair out or opt for a layered bob, let this hair length chart guide you in your future transformation.
What To Consider Before Choosing a Hair Length
Hair type
Your hair type plays a major role in how long or short your hair appears. For example, if you have naturally straight hair, your strands will typically look their actual length after a haircut. If you have waves, curls, or coils, on the other hand, your hair may appear a bit shorter after being cut and dried. That’s because the twists and bends of your strands cause them to spring up and create volume as moisture evaporates—and the tighter the curl pattern, the more extreme this shrinkage can be. If you have a textured hair type, work with a stylist who is well-versed in curly cuts and ask for a style slightly longer than your goal length.
Face shape
Some haircuts tend to be more flattering on certain face shapes, so it’s essential to identify the right one before committing to a new length. As always, we recommend consulting a pro to help you determine a length and style that will complement your unique facial features. (Psst: You can use our salon locator to find a new hairdresser in your area.)
Hair goals
This one might be obvious, but when it comes to cutting your hair, always keep your long-term hair goals in mind. You won’t want to cut six inches from your mane if you’re aiming to achieve waist-length hair. If you feel the sudden urge to chop off your hair, experiment with a fake short haircut and see how you like it. Check out our article, 11 Ways to Make Long Hair Look Short Without Getting a Haircut, for some inspo.
How Do You Describe Your Hair Length?
We know nothing feels quite as stressful as sitting in the stylist’s chair and being asked how much length you’d like to take off. When struggling to explain your desired length to your stylist, look at the hair length chart above and use it to describe what you want to achieve. We also recommend bringing a few inspiration photos to the salon to show your stylist. Keep scrolling for a more detailed chart breakdown for every single hair length.
Hair Length Chart: Short Hair
Buzz cut
Those who don’t want to be slowed down by lengthy styling routines should consider a buzz cut, which involves trimming the hair to a uniform length using clippers. The exact length of a buzz cut can vary depending on the clipper guard used, but it usually ranges from ⅛ to ½-inch long.
Try incorporating a fantasy hair color into your final look for added panache. After all, this cut is all about freedom and self-expression.
Ear length (pixie)
If you have a spectacular bone structure that you’re dying to show off, a pixie cut or ear-length cut is a great idea. A pixie cut is typically a short hairstyle cut close to the head with longer layers on top and shorter layers on the sides and back. The pixie cut is hard to beat in terms of classic cuts that don't go out of style.
For an effortless way to style your ear length cut, apply a bit of hair mousse like Redken Stay High Mousse to give your look maximum hold with textured volume, body, and fullness.
Chin length (bob)
Forever the chicest of short cuts, chin-length hair (aka. the classic bob) should fall just at or below your jawline. Try an asymmetrical bob for added drama, or stick to a French-inspired style that makes you look extra sophisticated.
Hair Length Chart: Medium Hair
Shoulder length
Shoulder length
In general, shoulder-length cuts are generally universally flattering (think the lob or a modern shag). These medium-length haircuts toe the line between a classic bob and long hair, enabling you to cherry-pick the best elements of both. Not to mention, they’re the perfect middle ground for growing out a buzz or pixie cut.
If you opt for a bob with lots of layers, enhance your natural texture with a texturizer like Matrix Builder Wax Spray. This aerosol spray combines the ease of hairspray with the texture of hair wax, adding body, dimension, and medium hold to hairstyles.
Armpit length
You’ve hit armpit length if you’re growing out your hair and just passed the awkward stage. This medium-length haircut is a favorite for those with textured hair since curls absolutely thrive with a few extra inches (use a styler like Mizani True Textures Curl Enhancing Lotion to help add definition to your ringlets). Try armpit length if you're looking to experiment with playful styles like bubble braids or pigtails.
Hair Length Chart: Long Hair
What length of hair is considered long?
If your strands reach past your armpits, it’s considered long. You can opt for a mid-back length cut or grow it out to your tailbone for extra-long flair.
There are several bond repair ranges on the market that promise to rejuvenate the look and feel of your locks. We’ll get into a few of our favorite collections below and share some impressive editor reviews to back them up.
Mid-back length
A mid-back cut can range in length from an inch or so below your shoulder blades to your waistline or the tops of your hips. This coveted length is a stunning way to show off your natural hair texture. Use a hair oil like Kérastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Original Hair Oil as the finishing touch in your styling routine, and you’ll really be the embodiment of #HairGoals. The wild camellia oil-infused formula leaves hair up to 10x smoother* and with 92% more shine.**
*vs. non-conditioning shampoo**vs. unwashed hair
Tailbone-length
News flash: Scoring ankle-skimming hair is probably unlikely, but long hair that reaches the tailbone is totally doable on certain hair types. The key is strengthening your hair to help ward off the breakage that can prevent it from reaching new lengths.
We recommend picking up the Biolage Professional Strength Recovery system to help you in your tailbone-length hair journey. When used in conjunction, the range’s shampoo, conditioning cream, and spray can leave hair 3x stronger and with 3x less breakage after just one use.* When your hair needs some extra TLC, swap in the Strength Recovery Deep Treatment Pack. This rinse-off mask for damaged hair, which is infused with vegan squalane, gives hair extra moisture, nourishment, and repair.
*vs. non-conditioning shampooNext Up: How Long Does It Really Take For Hair To Grow? We Investigate
Interested in getting your hair cut or trying a new look? Use oursalon locator to book an appointment with a stylist near you.
Header photo credit: Hair.com
