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

Ronel van Vollenhoven is no stranger to drastic hair transformations. She's the founder and Master Stylist of At Stylar. Her 28-year career has taken her across the Caribbean, Mexico, the United 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 a breakup, 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, like 30, 40 and 50 years."

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 hair health and 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."

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, other benefits 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,” noted the 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. When asked why 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 building relationships. 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.