How to Grow Out a Pixie Cut: Expert Tips

At Rush, we’re all about celebrating the elegance and versatility of a pixie cut. However, it’s natural to crave a change every now and then. If you’re contemplating transitioning from your chic cropped style to longer tresses, we’re here to guide you through the process. Growing out a pixie cut can be daunting, but with our expert advice, you’ll navigate the journey with ease and style.

How to Grow Out Pixie Hair

1. Patience is Key

When it comes to growing out a pixie cut, patience is a virtue. It takes approximately 6-9 months for the hair to grow out into a bob; you’ll have to wait up to 15 months before you can tie it up into a proper ponytail (i.e. something that’s not just a tufty stub of hair). 

So, if you really covet longer hair, it’ll take some perseverance. The good news is that you’ll be able to play around with lots of different looks along the way.

2. Nourish your hair

Maintaining your hair in top condition is crucial, especially when you’re on a mission to grow it out. Short hair is more vulnerable to damage than longer hair, which isn’t ideal if you’re trying to achieve length. 

Though hair will continue to grow even if you have split ends, the damage can travel up the hair shaft faster than the scalp can produce new length; that’s why damaged hair can seem as though it’s not growing at all. Follow our top tips to ensure your hair stays healthy at any length:

• Avoid over-washing: This can strip your hair of natural oils and proteins. Opt for washing every other day and use a dry shampoo in between if needed.
• Condition and Treat: Always use a conditioner post-shampooing and indulge in a deep conditioning treatment weekly to protect your hair from styling damage.
• Choose Sulfate-Free Products: These are gentler on your hair and help retain its natural oils.
• Handle Wet Hair with Care: Use a wide-toothed comb on wet hair to prevent breakage. Regular brushing when dry can distribute natural oils and promote scalp health, potentially aiding in hair growth.
• Limit Heat Styling: Reduce the use of hot tools and always apply a heat protectant spray before styling.
• Eat a Hair-Friendly Diet: Consume foods rich in iron, zinc, vitamins C and B, and omega-3. Biotin, found in eggs, spinach, and sweet potatoes, is also beneficial for hair growth.

Find out more about maintaining healthy hair with our article on How Often Should I Cut My Hair.

3. Regular Trims are Essential

Trim your hair every 8-10 weeks to eliminate split ends and maintain shape. Consider ‘hair dusting’ to remove minimal length while keeping split ends at bay. Regular salon visits also prevent the back of your hair from growing faster than the front, avoiding an unintentional mullet.

To achieve a bob (even a micro one), you need to let the hair on top and at the front of your head grow out, so that each section of your hair is the same length. Since hair at the back of the head tends to grow more quickly, regular salon visits will also ensure that you never veer into mullet territory.

It’s a good idea to think about how you’d like your hair to look at each stage before starting to grow it out. Planning ahead with your stylist will enable you to work with the hair once it gets to that awkward length.

4. Style with confidence

As your hair gains a bit more length, it’s the perfect time to experiment with various styling techniques and refresh your look. A little braid or bobby pin here and there will give your half-pixie-half-bob hairstyle some definition during this tricky midway point.

Sometimes it’s easy to forget that short hair can be just as versatile as long hair – especially when it’s a smidge longer than an ultra-short crop. What we’re saying is, short updos are a thing. If the longer sections are becoming unruly, twist or braid the hair and secure it with a bobby pin.

You can also pin the front sections off the face by styling your hair into a pompadour. Backcomb the front layers to add volume and fasten them in place with your trusty bobby pins; mist over with some hairspray to finish.

A sleek, slicked-back style à la Emma Watson also works well if you’ve got a bit more length to play with. Simply spritz the hair with some water before taking a generous amount of pomade in it; comb through and create a deep side parting, then comb your hair back into the side, and finish by misting over with a firm hold hairspray.

If you’re exploring different styles, check out our guide on What’s Your Hair Type?

5. Embrace hair accessories

Never underestimate the power of bobby pins (see above), hair scarves and headbands when growing out a pixie cut. They’re ideal for creating different looks and can be used to conceal awkward layers once you start achieving some length. A 50’s-inspired head scarf knotted at the top has a retro charm and plenty of attitude.

6. Have fun with your new length

When your hair reaches a uniform length at the front, back, and sides, it’s crucial to book a hair salon visit to get your hair styled into shape. At this stage, you may even decide that the pixie is, in fact, your true hair destiny and chop it all off again; you might want to carry on growing your hair or keep it above the shoulders in a bob. 

Whatever you choose to do, it’s always best to have fun with your hair by experimenting with different styles over time.

Looking for more styling ideas? Discover the difference between Babylights vs Highlights for a fresh look.

Additional Tips for Growing Out Your Pixie Cut

• Experiment with Color: As you navigate through different hair lengths, consider experimenting with hair colours or highlights. This can add dimension and keep your look fresh and exciting during the transition.
• Use Hair Accessories: Accessories like headbands, scarves, and decorative clips can help manage awkward lengths and add a stylish flair to your evolving hairstyle.
• Try Temporary Extensions: If you’re curious about longer hair but not quite there yet, temporary hair extensions can offer a fun and flexible way to experiment with various looks.
• Embrace Your Natural Texture: If your hair has natural waves or curls, let it shine! Products that enhance your natural texture can make the growing-out process more manageable and stylish.
• Seek Professional Advice: Regular check-ins with your hairstylist can provide tailored advice and adjustments to your haircut as it grows, ensuring that it looks great at every stage.
• Stay Inspired: Follow hair stylists and influencers who have successfully grown out their pixie cuts for inspiration and practical ideas.
• Be Open to Change: As your hair grows, you might discover that certain lengths or styles suit you better than expected. Stay flexible and open to changing your goals based on what looks and feels best for you.

Embrace Your Hair Transformation Journey with Rush Hairdressers

Are you ready to embark on the exciting journey of growing out your pixie cut? Find a hairdresser near you and book your appointment today. Our skilled stylists are here to guide you through every stage of the process, ensuring a seamless transition to your desired length.