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We’ve all had the sudden urge to change our look—especially at the start of a new year. An easy way to switch things up is by refreshing your hairstyle. A simple alteration to your hair, whether it be using a new hair accessory or product in your routine can make a huge impact. Research has shown that how we feel about our hair can have a profound impact on our self-image, which can ultimately influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Understanding just how transformational a hair refresh can be, we turned to three hair experts for their tips on how to update your look—either at home or in the salon. Keep reading for 10 ways to refresh your hair for 2025.
Meet the Experts
- Marwa Bashir is a hairstylist and R+Co Collective Member.
- Garrett Markenson is a hairstylist based in Los Angeles, CA ,and the owner of the hair care line REVERIE.
- Marc Mena is a celebrity hairstylist and Great Lengths ambassador.
Get a Bold New Cut
As the saying goes, “Out with the old, in with the new.” If you are considering a bold haircut—like a stylish pixie cut or chic bob—the new year is the perfect time to take the plunge. Hairstylist and R+Co Collective Member Marwa Bashir says getting new hair after the holidays brings in fresh energy. A completely new cut is something that is best achieved at the salon and can require a significant financial investment. Bashir says your average in-salon cost would be around $100-300 for a cut. If you have thought about embracing your natural hair texture, consider getting a cut that enhances curls or waves to ease the styling experience at home.
Trim Your Ends
If a completely new haircut feels too extreme, consider a simple trim instead. Trims benefit all hair textures, especially curly hair, which can be weighed down and lose volume. Making this a consistent practice will have even more benefits for your hair in the long run. “Regular trims are key to maintaining healthy hair,” explains Marc Mena, celebrity hairstylist and Great Lengths ambassador. “Even if you’re growing out your hair, trimming every 6-8 weeks helps remove split ends and prevents breakage, keeping your strands looking fresh and healthy.” The price of a trim can vary and, in many cases, can cost as much as a full haircut.
Try a Hair Gloss
Hair glosses are a fun and accessible way to freshen up your hair color for the new year. The name “hair gloss” may seem self-explanatory, as one of its many reported benefits is providing shiny, glossy hair. However, they also provide a tonal or color change. “Glosses are a great way to add shine and enhance your natural color,” explains Mena. “This treatment typically involves a clear or tinted gloss that seals the hair cuticle, boosting shine, smoothness, and overall vibrancy.”
Hair glosses have benefits for all hair textures, as they do not change your curl pattern. Many people with curls or waves love the results, as they can add shine and definition to enhance your natural hair texture. This treatment can be done at home or in the salon, making them an accessible option. If you’re not sure of what kind of gloss to use, Garrett Markenson, hairstylist and owner of haircare line REVERIE, recommends heading to the salon, as an expert can tailor the experience to the unique needs of a client.
Learn a New Hot Tool Technique
Sometimes a hair refresh doesn’t require a salon visit. Whether it’s enhancing natural curls and coils or adding volume to fine hair, hot tools can be used to bring a fresh new look to your existing style with just a little time invested in learning how to use them properly. Markenson recommends learning new hot tool techniques to better utilize the equipment you already have, like flat iron waves for a texture shift. For new ideas or inspiration, head to YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok. “Experiment, but remember to keep your tools below 350 degrees and use a heat-protecting leave-in,” he cautions.
Commit to Bangs
Bangs can be added to any existing haircut for a fresh new take. Like curtains for your face, bangs can enhance your natural features and bring attention to your eyes. Markenson says reimagining your frame can literally turn heads. There are many different types of bangs to choose from, so consider factors like how much daily styling you want to be responsible for and which styles compliment your natural hair texture.
Add a Deep Conditioner Into Your Routine
We might be starting a new year, but we are still in the middle of winter, so hair of all textures can benefit from added moisture. Bashir says deep conditioners are great during colder seasons because your hair can become more dehydrated. Make a deep conditioning mask or treatment part of your weekly everything shower routine or use leave-in products if you find your hair still needs extra attention. “This is a great addition to your self-care [routine] after the busy holidays,” shares Bashir.
Give Your Scalp Some Love
If you’ve been in a hair slump and don’t know where to begin, try starting with the scalp. “Taking care of your scalp is very important. I like to make sure I use scrubs and serums to keep my scalp at its healthiest,” explains Bashir. Depending on your specific scalp concerns, there are a slew of products to choose from, such as detoxifying treatments or moisturizing oils. Hair health starts at the scalp, so if taking better care of your hair is one of your 2025 goals, invest time into your roots.
Experiment With Extensions
While new hairstyles and cuts are often synonymous, sometimes adding length can be just the refresh you need. Hair extensions are available for all hair textures and offer either permanent or flexible hair length solutions. According to Mena, if you’re looking to add volume, length, or even a pop of color without commitment, tape-ins are a game changer. “They can help transform your hair in an instant, whether you want a fuller style or just need a little more oomph for an event,” he explains.
Create a Head Spa Experience at Home
Head spa treatments have gone viral for their ability to transform hair and scalp health. While booking a salon appointment might be on your 2025 to-do list, you can incorporate some of the practices at home. Markenson and Bashir recommend adding scalp scrubs, tonics, and new shampoos and conditioners to recreate the spa experience and target your hair goals. The most important factor is dedicating time to truly indulge in the hair-washing process. Many of these treatments spend over 30 minutes massaging the scalp to ensure any buildup is removed. While you might not have that much time during every shower, try to spend a few dedicated minutes cleansing your scalp at least once a week.
Incorporate New Elements to Your Usual Styles
If your tried and true styles are feeling redundant, Markenson recommends adding fresh visual interest via hair accessories. Accents like barrettes, bows, and even oversized scrunchies can take a hairstyle from routine to red-carpet-ready. You can also try adding styling elements like micro braids to your ponytail to add an element of intrigue to an otherwise plain hairstyle.
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