Is a Jellyfish Haircut Hard to Grow Out?

The jellyfish haircut page covers what the cut is and who it suits. This post is about living with one: how much upkeep it needs, and how to get out of it when you're ready.

How much upkeep does a jellyfish cut need?

It has two parts, and they run on different schedules. The top layer behaves like a short cut, and the guide on how often to get a haircut puts short cuts at every 4 to 6 weeks. The length underneath behaves like long hair, which can usually go 8 to 12 weeks or more.

The line between the two is the whole look, so that's what shows first. If you want it crisp, plan your visits around the top layer. If you don't mind it softening, you can leave longer gaps.

The shape also relies on straight, smooth hair. If yours needs help to get there, the American Academy of Dermatology advises you to limit blow drying and flat irons, and to use low or medium heat with a heat protectant.

Why does it take so long to grow out?

Because all your hair grows at about the same speed. A medical reference on the NCBI Bookshelf puts scalp hair growth at about 1 cm a month, which is a little under half an inch.

That means the gap between your layers doesn't shrink on its own. Both lengths simply get longer. The gap closes only if the long hair is trimmed to hold its place while the top catches up.

These are simple sums, not promises, and your own hair may be a little faster or slower.

What are the stages of growing it out?

1. Soften the line. Ask for the hard edge of the top layer to be softened, so it reads as a layer and not as a shelf.
2. Decide on the length. Every inch you take off the bottom is an inch the top doesn't have to gain.
3. Blend it in. Once the top reaches a length that can connect to the rest, it starts to look like a layered haircut.
4. Let the layers grow. From there, it's small trims, less often.

Can you tie it back while it grows?

The long hair, yes. The top layer may not reach, depending on where it sits, so expect some pieces to fall forward. When you do pull your hair back, the American Academy of Dermatology says to wear it loosely, using covered bands.

What's the quickest way out?

Cut the long length up to meet the top layer. That usually means a bob or another shorter shape. You give up the length, but it takes one visit and not a couple of years.

If you like sharp lines but want to compare the work involved, read whether a hime cut is high maintenance.

What will it cost?

With Karen Shardlow in Georgetown, women's cuts start at $82 for medium hair, $87 for long hair and $93 for extra long hair. Those are starting prices, and your final price depends on your hair, so ask at your consultation. See Karen's starting prices.