The Best Cuts to Disguise Thinning Roots

Welcome to our Hair Consultation column. To request an online hair consultation from celebrity hairstylist Bill Angst, follow the instructions here.

Q: I'm 27-year-old recent graphic design graduate on the look out for a job, and I've really wanted to cut my hair lately. I am 4' 11″ and my hair is brown-black (more black than anything), and very wavy. I've been having a lot of issues with it after I had a miscarriage last year, and it's too much work to keep it healthy.

Don't get me wrong—I love the length of my hair. But I wouldn't mind an extreme change, like a short pixie cut. However, change is good only if it's appealing for my head shape, physique and degree (I would like to look edgy and current in front of a potential employer).

My hair is thick at the ends, but has been thinning from the roots. It's dry and my scalp looks dry as well, but I'm not quite sure if it's dandruff. I must confess that I do flat iron my hair once every three weeks, depending on the occasion, and I do shower constantly, with hot water. 

I've come to the conclusion that I want to cut it and colour it, but I need your advice on what may look good on me. What should I do with it, and what kind of hairstyle should I try? Like I said, I'm up for anything, as long as it's appealing to my short persona. — Dora

A: Dora, thank you for your request and for sharing your unfortunate loss….

There does not seem to be a handbook on how hormones affect one's hair while pregnant. It can get thicker at some points during a pregnancy, and thinner at other times. Thicker is the norm during pregnancy, and when breastfeeding stops, there is a fair amount of hair loss. The amount of loss is different from person to person.

Unfortunately, your hormones go through the same process with a miscarriage, and your hair follows suit.

This is when women try a new style to deal with what the new hair has to offer.

Here is my first, not-so-drastic but definitely flattering style, using a fringe to mask the thin hair at the hairline:

A fringe is the usual fix, especially when you want to keep some length.

I know that you want a short, extreme cut for your big change. This is a great shape and profile for you, with a longer fringe and nape that you can style many different ways:

And here is another option for a not-so-short cut that will be versatile as well:

Best of luck on your huge change.

billyxoxo

Bill Angst is one of Canada‣s top celebrity hairstylists and the owner of Angst Salon at 240 Queen Street East in Toronto. Call 416-360-5942 to book an appointment.