50 Before And After Pics That Prove A Hair Makeover Can Really Change Your Entire Face

If you’ve ever had a drastic but amazinghair transformation, you’ll know how refreshing it can be. You walk out feeling like a brand new you, full of spunk and confidence. It’s almost like a literal weight has been lifted off your shoulders. Hairdressers really don’t get enough credit for their contribution to humanity. They’re like miracle workers, plastic surgeons, therapists andartistsall rolled into one. The tributes that have poured in this week for late celebrity stylistJesus Guerrerobear testament to just how much some clients cherish the keepers of their locks. And how a hairdresser can quickly and easily become a true friend.In a nod to the incredible hairdressers out there, people have been sharing their before and after hair transformation photos online. And all we can say is “Wow!” From a “life-changing” shag cut, to a “mama makeover”, lots of big chops, and some clever and creative color, stylists out there have been doing the most.Bored Pandahas put together a compilation of our favorite radical hair transformations. And some might have you heading to the salon a lot sooner than you expected. We also spoke to Ronel van Vollenhoven, founder and Master Stylist ofAt Stylarto get some insight into the do’s and don’ts of drastic hair makeovers.This post may includeaffiliate links.Ronel van Vollenhoven is no stranger to drastichair transformations. She’s the founder and Master Stylist ofAt Stylar. Her 28-year career has taken her across the Caribbean, Mexico, theUnited States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Van Vollenhoven has had the honor of making loads of people feel brand new.“Clients usually seek drastic makeovers when they are going through something major in their life, like abreakup,career changes, new beginnings, simply wanting a confidence boost or when there’s a change in season, many from winter to summer. Some also feel stuck in a style rut and crave something fresh and exciting,” she told Bored Panda during our chat. “I also find clients wanting a change when they reach big milestones in age, like30,40 and 50years.“RELATED:My husband donated 17 inches of his hair to The Little Princess Trust.According to the expert, it’s not always the right time to go big or go home when it comes to your hair. “I would advise against a drastic transformation if someone is going through a highly emotional period. A drastic change might not be the best decision,” she cautioned.“Also, if their hair is already damaged or compromised, extreme color changes or major cuts might not be advisable until their hair is healthier. It is, however, important that the client is one hundred percent sure and ready of the change.“Your hair is your crown, says van Vollenhoven. “It plays such an important role in a person’s confidence levels. I’d recommend waiting till the next hair visit before making that change, as a drastic change can either boost or break one’s confidence.“The stylist says people should also practice caution when it comes to color. Don’t overdo it. “For permanent color, every 6 to 8 weeks is ideal, for grey coverage, every 3 to 4 weeks is ideal,” she advises. “If using bleach, stretching touch-ups to 8 to 12 weeks helps minimize damage, but should not exceed 12 weeks.” She adds that deep conditioning treatments between sessions will help maintain hairhealthand shine.When it comes to cutting, van Vollenhoven suggests people visit the salon, on average, every 6 to 8 weeks for short styles to maintain shape, and every 10 to 12 weeks for longer hair to keep it healthy and prevent split ends. “Regular trims help maintain style and prevent hair from splitting and breaking,” she says.The stylist says there isn’t a particular favorite cut among her clients, and she’s always ready to do just about anything. “I am fortunate to get a wide variety of different lengths of cuts, from a long-layered style to a pixie cut or a textured bob even mullets in different lengths,” she told Bored Panda.“The most important is that the cuts should be flattering on most face shapes, low-maintenance, and offer versatility for styling. Many clients want something that looks effortlessly chic but still manageable.“Got my first hair cut since I was a junior in high school, before that I was 11 for my last haircut. I’m 28 now. 💀 surprisingly not as sad as I thought I’d be.We’ve heard some nightmare stories about hair makeovers gone wrong, and van Vollenhoven says it’s always best to consult an experienced and trusted stylist. When your transformation involves color, she warns that the biggest risks are severe dryness, breakage, and uneven color.“Dark hair requires multiple bleaching sessions to reach platinum, which can strip hair of moisture and weaken its structure. When lightened too fast you can be left with brassy,” she reveals. “It is important to follow your stylist’s professional guidance and the use of intensive hair care treatments are crucial to prevent excessive damage as well as to maintain the color.“There are plenty of ways to change your look, even when you’re too nervous to cut or color your hair. The expert suggests hair extensions and wigs as a fantastic, damage-free way to experiment with different styles, lengths, and color.“Clip-in, tape-in or slim weft extensions can add instant volume and length without the commitment of cutting your hair, while colored extensions let you try bold shades without bleach or dye,” van Vollenhoven told us.While you’re plucking up the courage to visit the salon for your extreme makeover, why not try out some temporary styles without any risk? And you’ll be spoilt for choice, says the expert stylist.“Wigs offer even more versatility, allowing you to switch up your look daily. If you’re considering bangs, a faux fringe piece can help you test the style before making the cut,” she explained. “These options let you have fun with your hair while keeping it healthy and chemical-free—perfect for those who love change but want to avoid potential damage!“There are, of course,otherbenefits to visiting a hair salon besides the obvious… A 2023 survey of over a thousand salon-goers revealed that 1 in 3 Americans view their stylist as a therapist.39% of those polled even reported discussing some topics with their stylist that they wouldn’t feel comfortable discussing with family or friends. “This may suggest that salon-goers view their stylists as supportive, non-judgemental allies in their lives,”notedthe report. And it seems the relationship is reciprocal. 86% of people polled revealed that their stylist has shared personal information with them.Brooke Jordan is the co-founder of The Bird House salon in Brooklyn,New York. Whenaskedwhy she thinks clients and hairdressers get on so well, she had this to say. “I think a lot of it is just that we are in a business of people. We’re buildingrelationships. If I see someone, it’s not in my nature to think that I’ll see them never again. It’s like, ‘You’re my person that I take care of now.’“And we’d like to say ‘thank you’ to our stylists for having our backs and our heads. And taking such good care of us, both in and out of the chair.See Also on Bored PandaContinue reading with Bored Panda PremiumUnlimited contentAd-free browsingDark modeSubscribe nowAlready a subscriber?Sign InSee Also on Bored PandaSee Also on Bored PandaIt’s my first time going this short in 5 years I also got an undercut because my hair is really thick and it feels so much nicer.See Also on Bored PandaSee Also on Bored PandaSee Also on Bored PandaSee Also on Bored PandaModal closeAdd New ImageModal closeAdd Your Photo To This ListPlease use high-res photos without watermarksOoops! 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In a nod to the incredible hairdressers out there, people have been sharing their before and after hair transformation photos online. And all we can say is “Wow!” From a “life-changing” shag cut, to a “mama makeover”, lots of big chops, and some clever and creative color, stylists out there have been doing the most.

Bored Pandahas put together a compilation of our favorite radical hair transformations. And some might have you heading to the salon a lot sooner than you expected. We also spoke to Ronel van Vollenhoven, founder and Master Stylist ofAt Stylarto get some insight into the do’s and don’ts of drastic hair makeovers.

This post may includeaffiliate links.

Ronel van Vollenhoven is no stranger to drastichair transformations. She’s the founder and Master Stylist ofAt Stylar. Her 28-year career has taken her across the Caribbean, Mexico, theUnited States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Van Vollenhoven has had the honor of making loads of people feel brand new.“Clients usually seek drastic makeovers when they are going through something major in their life, like abreakup,career changes, new beginnings, simply wanting a confidence boost or when there’s a change in season, many from winter to summer. Some also feel stuck in a style rut and crave something fresh and exciting,” she told Bored Panda during our chat. “I also find clients wanting a change when they reach big milestones in age, like30,40 and 50years.“RELATED:My husband donated 17 inches of his hair to The Little Princess Trust.According to the expert, it’s not always the right time to go big or go home when it comes to your hair. “I would advise against a drastic transformation if someone is going through a highly emotional period. A drastic change might not be the best decision,” she cautioned.“Also, if their hair is already damaged or compromised, extreme color changes or major cuts might not be advisable until their hair is healthier. It is, however, important that the client is one hundred percent sure and ready of the change.“Your hair is your crown, says van Vollenhoven. “It plays such an important role in a person’s confidence levels. I’d recommend waiting till the next hair visit before making that change, as a drastic change can either boost or break one’s confidence.“The stylist says people should also practice caution when it comes to color. Don’t overdo it. “For permanent color, every 6 to 8 weeks is ideal, for grey coverage, every 3 to 4 weeks is ideal,” she advises. “If using bleach, stretching touch-ups to 8 to 12 weeks helps minimize damage, but should not exceed 12 weeks.” She adds that deep conditioning treatments between sessions will help maintain hairhealthand shine.When it comes to cutting, van Vollenhoven suggests people visit the salon, on average, every 6 to 8 weeks for short styles to maintain shape, and every 10 to 12 weeks for longer hair to keep it healthy and prevent split ends. “Regular trims help maintain style and prevent hair from splitting and breaking,” she says.The stylist says there isn’t a particular favorite cut among her clients, and she’s always ready to do just about anything. “I am fortunate to get a wide variety of different lengths of cuts, from a long-layered style to a pixie cut or a textured bob even mullets in different lengths,” she told Bored Panda.“The most important is that the cuts should be flattering on most face shapes, low-maintenance, and offer versatility for styling. Many clients want something that looks effortlessly chic but still manageable.“Got my first hair cut since I was a junior in high school, before that I was 11 for my last haircut. I’m 28 now. 💀 surprisingly not as sad as I thought I’d be.We’ve heard some nightmare stories about hair makeovers gone wrong, and van Vollenhoven says it’s always best to consult an experienced and trusted stylist. When your transformation involves color, she warns that the biggest risks are severe dryness, breakage, and uneven color.“Dark hair requires multiple bleaching sessions to reach platinum, which can strip hair of moisture and weaken its structure. When lightened too fast you can be left with brassy,” she reveals. “It is important to follow your stylist’s professional guidance and the use of intensive hair care treatments are crucial to prevent excessive damage as well as to maintain the color.“There are plenty of ways to change your look, even when you’re too nervous to cut or color your hair. The expert suggests hair extensions and wigs as a fantastic, damage-free way to experiment with different styles, lengths, and color.“Clip-in, tape-in or slim weft extensions can add instant volume and length without the commitment of cutting your hair, while colored extensions let you try bold shades without bleach or dye,” van Vollenhoven told us.While you’re plucking up the courage to visit the salon for your extreme makeover, why not try out some temporary styles without any risk? And you’ll be spoilt for choice, says the expert stylist.“Wigs offer even more versatility, allowing you to switch up your look daily. If you’re considering bangs, a faux fringe piece can help you test the style before making the cut,” she explained. “These options let you have fun with your hair while keeping it healthy and chemical-free—perfect for those who love change but want to avoid potential damage!“There are, of course,otherbenefits to visiting a hair salon besides the obvious… A 2023 survey of over a thousand salon-goers revealed that 1 in 3 Americans view their stylist as a therapist.39% of those polled even reported discussing some topics with their stylist that they wouldn’t feel comfortable discussing with family or friends. “This may suggest that salon-goers view their stylists as supportive, non-judgemental allies in their lives,”notedthe report. And it seems the relationship is reciprocal. 86% of people polled revealed that their stylist has shared personal information with them.Brooke Jordan is the co-founder of The Bird House salon in Brooklyn,New York. Whenaskedwhy she thinks clients and hairdressers get on so well, she had this to say. “I think a lot of it is just that we are in a business of people. We’re buildingrelationships. If I see someone, it’s not in my nature to think that I’ll see them never again. It’s like, ‘You’re my person that I take care of now.’“And we’d like to say ‘thank you’ to our stylists for having our backs and our heads. And taking such good care of us, both in and out of the chair.See Also on Bored PandaContinue reading with Bored Panda PremiumUnlimited contentAd-free browsingDark modeSubscribe nowAlready a subscriber?Sign InSee Also on Bored PandaSee Also on Bored PandaIt’s my first time going this short in 5 years I also got an undercut because my hair is really thick and it feels so much nicer.See Also on Bored PandaSee Also on Bored PandaSee Also on Bored PandaSee Also on Bored Panda

Before and after hair transformations showing a woman with long straight hair and then with short curly hair, both wearing glasses.

“Clients usually seek drastic makeovers when they are going through something major in their life, like abreakup,career changes, new beginnings, simply wanting a confidence boost or when there’s a change in season, many from winter to summer. Some also feel stuck in a style rut and crave something fresh and exciting,” she told Bored Panda during our chat. “I also find clients wanting a change when they reach big milestones in age, like30,40 and 50years.”

Man with long hair on the left and short hair on the right, showing a hair transformation.

My husband donated 17 inches of his hair to The Little Princess Trust.

Before-and-after hair transformations of a man, showing long to short hair change, smiling in a casual setting.

According to the expert, it’s not always the right time to go big or go home when it comes to your hair. “I would advise against a drastic transformation if someone is going through a highly emotional period. A drastic change might not be the best decision,” she cautioned.“Also, if their hair is already damaged or compromised, extreme color changes or major cuts might not be advisable until their hair is healthier. It is, however, important that the client is one hundred percent sure and ready of the change.”

“Also, if their hair is already damaged or compromised, extreme color changes or major cuts might not be advisable until their hair is healthier. It is, however, important that the client is one hundred percent sure and ready of the change.”

Before-and-after hair transformations showing long blonde hair to short styled cut.

Before and after hair transformations of a woman with long brown hair changing to shorter, wavy, blonde hair.

Before-And-After-Hair-Transformations showing a woman with a new layered haircut and bangs.

Your hair is your crown, says van Vollenhoven. “It plays such an important role in a person’s confidence levels. I’d recommend waiting till the next hair visit before making that change, as a drastic change can either boost or break one’s confidence.“The stylist says people should also practice caution when it comes to color. Don’t overdo it. “For permanent color, every 6 to 8 weeks is ideal, for grey coverage, every 3 to 4 weeks is ideal,” she advises. “If using bleach, stretching touch-ups to 8 to 12 weeks helps minimize damage, but should not exceed 12 weeks.” She adds that deep conditioning treatments between sessions will help maintain hairhealthand shine.

The stylist says people should also practice caution when it comes to color. Don’t overdo it. “For permanent color, every 6 to 8 weeks is ideal, for grey coverage, every 3 to 4 weeks is ideal,” she advises. “If using bleach, stretching touch-ups to 8 to 12 weeks helps minimize damage, but should not exceed 12 weeks.” She adds that deep conditioning treatments between sessions will help maintain hairhealthand shine.

Before-and-after hair transformations, showing a smiling woman in glasses with a fresh haircut in front of a decorated tree.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing a woman with long hair and then with a short haircut.

Before and after hair transformations showing a woman with long black hair dyed light brown with styled curls.

When it comes to cutting, van Vollenhoven suggests people visit the salon, on average, every 6 to 8 weeks for short styles to maintain shape, and every 10 to 12 weeks for longer hair to keep it healthy and prevent split ends. “Regular trims help maintain style and prevent hair from splitting and breaking,” she says.The stylist says there isn’t a particular favorite cut among her clients, and she’s always ready to do just about anything. “I am fortunate to get a wide variety of different lengths of cuts, from a long-layered style to a pixie cut or a textured bob even mullets in different lengths,” she told Bored Panda.“The most important is that the cuts should be flattering on most face shapes, low-maintenance, and offer versatility for styling. Many clients want something that looks effortlessly chic but still manageable.”

The stylist says there isn’t a particular favorite cut among her clients, and she’s always ready to do just about anything. “I am fortunate to get a wide variety of different lengths of cuts, from a long-layered style to a pixie cut or a textured bob even mullets in different lengths,” she told Bored Panda.

“The most important is that the cuts should be flattering on most face shapes, low-maintenance, and offer versatility for styling. Many clients want something that looks effortlessly chic but still manageable.”

Before and after hair transformations showing a change from long hair to a sleek bob.

Before and after hair transformations showing a vibrant color change from dull brown to rich red with styled waves.

Got my first hair cut since I was a junior in high school, before that I was 11 for my last haircut. I’m 28 now. 💀 surprisingly not as sad as I thought I’d be.

Before and after hair transformations showing long straight hair turned into shoulder-length wavy style.

We’ve heard some nightmare stories about hair makeovers gone wrong, and van Vollenhoven says it’s always best to consult an experienced and trusted stylist. When your transformation involves color, she warns that the biggest risks are severe dryness, breakage, and uneven color.“Dark hair requires multiple bleaching sessions to reach platinum, which can strip hair of moisture and weaken its structure. When lightened too fast you can be left with brassy,” she reveals. “It is important to follow your stylist’s professional guidance and the use of intensive hair care treatments are crucial to prevent excessive damage as well as to maintain the color.”

“Dark hair requires multiple bleaching sessions to reach platinum, which can strip hair of moisture and weaken its structure. When lightened too fast you can be left with brassy,” she reveals. “It is important to follow your stylist’s professional guidance and the use of intensive hair care treatments are crucial to prevent excessive damage as well as to maintain the color.”

Before and after hair transformations showing long hair cut to shoulder length in a salon setting.

Before and after hair transformations showing dramatic color and style changes from dark roots to vibrant red waves.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing a woman with long hair turned into a wavy bob hairstyle.

There are plenty of ways to change your look, even when you’re too nervous to cut or color your hair. The expert suggests hair extensions and wigs as a fantastic, damage-free way to experiment with different styles, lengths, and color.“Clip-in, tape-in or slim weft extensions can add instant volume and length without the commitment of cutting your hair, while colored extensions let you try bold shades without bleach or dye,” van Vollenhoven told us.

“Clip-in, tape-in or slim weft extensions can add instant volume and length without the commitment of cutting your hair, while colored extensions let you try bold shades without bleach or dye,” van Vollenhoven told us.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing dark brown to multi-tonal hairstyle change with highlights.

Hair transformations showing a change from natural brown to vibrant rainbow colors with a hairpin accessory.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing a brunette to vibrant redhead makeover in a salon setting.

While you’re plucking up the courage to visit the salon for your extreme makeover, why not try out some temporary styles without any risk? And you’ll be spoilt for choice, says the expert stylist.“Wigs offer even more versatility, allowing you to switch up your look daily. If you’re considering bangs, a faux fringe piece can help you test the style before making the cut,” she explained. “These options let you have fun with your hair while keeping it healthy and chemical-free—perfect for those who love change but want to avoid potential damage!”

“Wigs offer even more versatility, allowing you to switch up your look daily. If you’re considering bangs, a faux fringe piece can help you test the style before making the cut,” she explained. “These options let you have fun with your hair while keeping it healthy and chemical-free—perfect for those who love change but want to avoid potential damage!”

Woman with blonde to brunette hair transformation showcasing before-and-after hair change.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing dark wavy hair changed to vibrant curly magenta hairstyle.

Woman showcasing her hair transformations, before with long gray hair and after with styled short cut, wearing sunglasses.

There are, of course,otherbenefits to visiting a hair salon besides the obvious… A 2023 survey of over a thousand salon-goers revealed that 1 in 3 Americans view their stylist as a therapist.39% of those polled even reported discussing some topics with their stylist that they wouldn’t feel comfortable discussing with family or friends. “This may suggest that salon-goers view their stylists as supportive, non-judgemental allies in their lives,”notedthe report. And it seems the relationship is reciprocal. 86% of people polled revealed that their stylist has shared personal information with them.

There are, of course,otherbenefits to visiting a hair salon besides the obvious… A 2023 survey of over a thousand salon-goers revealed that 1 in 3 Americans view their stylist as a therapist.

39% of those polled even reported discussing some topics with their stylist that they wouldn’t feel comfortable discussing with family or friends. “This may suggest that salon-goers view their stylists as supportive, non-judgemental allies in their lives,”notedthe report. And it seems the relationship is reciprocal. 86% of people polled revealed that their stylist has shared personal information with them.

Side-by-side hair transformations showing a woman with blonde hair before and red hair after.

Before and after hair transformations, showing long straight hair turning into short curly hairstyle indoors.

Person with glasses showing hair transformations, left with long hair, right with a stylish short cut, smiling.

Brooke Jordan is the co-founder of The Bird House salon in Brooklyn,New York. Whenaskedwhy she thinks clients and hairdressers get on so well, she had this to say. “I think a lot of it is just that we are in a business of people. We’re buildingrelationships. If I see someone, it’s not in my nature to think that I’ll see them never again. It’s like, ‘You’re my person that I take care of now.’“And we’d like to say ‘thank you’ to our stylists for having our backs and our heads. And taking such good care of us, both in and out of the chair.

And we’d like to say ‘thank you’ to our stylists for having our backs and our heads. And taking such good care of us, both in and out of the chair.

Before and after hair transformation showing a woman with dark hair styled differently.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing a dramatic change from dull brown to vibrant red wavy hair.

Before and after hair transformations showing a shift from long blonde hair to vibrant pink hair on a woman in a salon.

Before and after hair transformations showing a woman with long hair and then with a short bob hairstyle.

Before-and-after hair transformations showcasing stylish short haircut with glasses, wearing a green top and patterned shirt.

Woman holding a dog, showcasing a before-and-after hair transformation with subtle bangs and layered styling.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing a change from dull, uneven color to shiny, smooth blonde waves.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing wavy brown hair changed to sleek, vibrant red hair.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing a long hairstyle changed to a short, wavy bob in a salon setting.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing long to sleek bob haircut in a salon setting.

Woman with brunette to peach hair transformation, smiling in both before-and-after photos.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing long brown hair changed to vibrant red hair.

Before-and-after hair transformation showing natural brown to vibrant red hairstyle change.

Before and after hair transformations, showcasing a woman with long hair, followed by a shorter, styled haircut.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing long blonde hair cut to a stylish shoulder-length bob, woman smiling in both.

Before and after hair transformations featuring long straight hair changed to wavy with bangs.

Before and after hair transformations showcasing a change from natural brown to vibrant rainbow colors.

Before and after hair transformations showing a woman with straight brown hair and then wavy hair with bangs.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing long to short haircut on a person wearing a colorful sweater.

Before-and-after hair transformations showing a woman with long red hair trimmed in a kitchen setting.

Blonde woman showcasing before and after hair transformations with a new stylish short haircut.