Why is it that every time I feel even slightly stuck in life, I get the overwhelming urge to cut bangs? Someone should study me—a scientist teaming up with a trendy salon, maybe. Over the years, I’ve tried different bang styles a few times to shake things up (hey, it’s a quick dopamine boost that eventually grows out), but not all of them worked out. Here’s what I’ve learned so you can avoid my mistakes.

What to know before cutting bangs
For my latest salon visit, celebrity hairstylist Alexander von Trentini guided me. His first piece of advice? Think carefully about the cut—do not, he stressed, cut bangs on impulse. (Which, admittedly, is where I’ve gone wrong before.)

Find bangs that suit your face shape
According to the expert, the first step is understanding your face shape and choosing accordingly: “Bangs should balance your face,” he says. “If you have a round face, they should angle outward to create a heart shape—Beth Ditto is a perfect example. If your face is long and narrow, opt for longer bangs, like curtain bangs or face-framing layers, to soften your features. This year, ‘wispy bangs’ are also trending—they’re light, cool, and work for many face shapes. These delicate bangs fall softly, letting glimpses of your forehead show. It’s a soft, versatile look that works with both loose and tied-up hair.”

Consider your hair texture
I have naturally curly hair, which I’ve learned makes bangs trickier to cut and style. But what kind of bangs actually suit curls? Thankfully, curly-haired icons like Zendaya and Chappell Roan have paved the way.

“It’s best to discuss this with your stylist beforehand,” von Trentini advises. “Does my hair type work with this fringe? Do I have enough hair in the bang area, or is it too thick? Are my temples too sparse, or are there gaps where scalp shows? These answers will help you make the right choice.”

How much time are you willing to spend styling?
If you think bangs are a shortcut to easy styling, think again—they’re high-maintenance. Even with straight hair, they rarely fall perfectly on their own and usually require daily effort.

Before taking the plunge, be honest about whether you’re willing to put in that time. As von Trentini puts it: “Bangs are a lot of work—more than long hair, even.”