Every dollar counts in a budget, especially when you have big financial goals to tackle. If you’re working on debt management, you might be on the lookout for additional ways to trim your expenses, like skipping the salon or barbershop. However, don’t give up your stylist just yet. Here are a few things to consider before you cut your own hair.
If you’re paying off debt, cut your own hair to stay on track financially.
Cut Your Own Hair or Stick With the Professionals
There are many things to think about when deciding to cut your own hair or not. Typically, the easier the style or cut, the more success you will probably have. Another factor is the time commitment. Are you overbooked on a weekly basis? Will cutting your own hair get pushed aside until you end up back at the salon anyway? Knowing your schedule and availability for regular cuts is key. Guys may have an easier time regularly cutting their own hair, especially if their cut stays the same. With practice, a person can get really good at the haircut.
So can you save money by cutting your own hair? Yes. Once you purchase the right equipment, you can start recouping those expenses very quickly. Depending on what you were previously paying for each cut, you may only need to cut your own hair once or twice to make up for the initial investment. Even cutting back on the number of times you visit the salon can save you money and help your budget. However, if your style is tricky or needs more frequent attention, you may want to stick with your stylist. Giving yourself a bad haircut or taking too long to get it right might not be worth the savings and effort.
Saving Money at the Salon
If you think sticking to a professional is best, here are a few ways you can save money:
- Switch to a cheaper salon or cosmetology school
- Keep your haircut simple and allow for more time in-between haircuts
- Trim your own bangs
- Look for Groupon deals around town
- Go to your barber or stylist every other cut and do the rest yourself
- Barter services to the salon, like photography or social media promotion in exchange for haircuts
Cut Your Own Hair
- Start slow, test your skills and ability
- Pay careful attention to how your stylist does it before attempting it yourself
- Go on YouTube and watch some tutorials
- Purchase good equipment
- Go back to the pros every so often for a refresher cut
- Cut your kids’ hair
While you can definitely save money, the choice to cut your own hair is not a simple one. Take into account frequency, difficulty and your own abilities when making this decision.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
