Haircut vs. Hairstyle — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on November 3, 2023
A haircut is the act or style of cutting the hair, while a hairstyle is the way hair is arranged or styled.
Difference Between Haircut and Hairstyle
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A haircut is a specific act or process of cutting the hair to a particular length or shape. It involves changing the hair's length and can sometimes include texturing. A hairstyle, however, is the manner in which a person's hair is styled, including the arrangement and grooming of the hair, which can be independent of the cut itself.
The term haircut is used when referring to the cut of the hair itself – the foundational shape that can be styled in various ways. A hairstyle is the way this cut is arranged, which may involve additional elements such as braiding, curling, or setting with products.
Haircuts often determine the range of hairstyles that can be achieved with a given length or type of hair. Hairstyles, on the other hand, can vary even with the same haircut, depending on the occasion, fashion, or personal preference.
Haircuts usually require the professional skill of a barber or hairdresser and might follow current trends or personal style. Hairstyles can be created by the individual on a day-to-day basis, allowing for personal expression and versatility within the confines of the haircut.
While a haircut is typically maintained every few weeks to months, hairstyles can change daily. A haircut serves as a canvas for the multitude of hairstyles one might choose to express personality or style.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
The act or style of cutting hair.
The way hair is arranged or styled.
Duration
Lasts until hair grows out.
Can be changed daily.
Performed by
Barber or hairdresser.
Individual or stylist.
Variety
Limited by hair length and cut.
Unlimited, varies with trends.
Purpose
Creates the base for hairstyles.
Enhances personal style.
Compare with Definitions
Haircut
A reduction in the value of an asset.
The bonds received a haircut after the company’s credit rating was downgraded.
Hairstyle
The fashioning of hair to look a certain way.
His hairstyle gave him a youthful, edgy vibe.
Haircut
The act of cutting hair as a professional service.
The barber offered a discount for a child’s haircut.
Hairstyle
A set design for arranging or shaping the hair.
The movie character's iconic hairstyle became a cultural phenomenon.
Haircut
A style in which human hair is cut.
He got a short haircut for the summer heat.
Hairstyle
The manner in which someone's hair is styled.
Her hairstyle was elegant, with every strand in perfect place.
Haircut
The act or an instance of cutting the hair.
Hairstyle
The current trend or fashion in hairdressing.
The latest hairstyle trends this season include natural waves.
Haircut
A style in which hair is cut.
Hairstyle
A way of arranging the hair distinctively.
For the wedding, she chose a formal updo hairstyle.
Haircut
(Slang) A reduction, as in payment or value
"No one gets exactly what he wants from Chapter 11—creditors get a haircut, employees get laid off, and shareholders (usually) get zilch" (New Yorker).
Hairstyle
A hairstyle, hairdo, or haircut refers to the styling of hair, usually on the human scalp. Sometimes, this could also mean an editing of facial or body hair.
Haircut
The act of cutting of the hair, often done professionally by a barber, hair stylist, or beautician.
Hairstyle
A style in which the hair is cut and arranged.
Haircut
The style into which the hair is cut.
Hairstyle
The style in which someone's hair has been cut and arranged.
Haircut
(legal) In a bankruptcy proceeding, the proportional reduction in the debt that will be paid to each creditor, based on an evaluation of the total debt owed and the total assets of the debtor.
Haircut
(finance) The difference between the value of a loan and the value of its collateral.
Haircut
The style in which hair has been cut
Haircut
The act of cutting the hair
Haircut
The act of cutting one’s hair to achieve a certain look.
She scheduled a haircut with her favorite stylist.
Haircut
The end result of having one's hair trimmed or shorn.
His new haircut made him look more professional.
Common Curiosities
What does a hairstyle refer to?
A hairstyle refers to the way hair is arranged, styled, or groomed.
Can I change my hairstyle without altering my haircut?
Yes, you can style your hair in different ways without changing the cut.
What is a haircut?
A haircut is the act or style of cutting hair to a certain length or shape.
How often should I get a haircut?
It varies, but typically every 6-8 weeks to maintain a particular style.
Can a bad haircut be fixed?
Often it can, either by cutting it more or by styling it differently until it grows out.
Is it necessary to go to a professional for a hairstyle?
Not always, many hairstyles can be achieved at home.
Can a haircut affect the type of hairstyles I can wear?
Yes, the haircut determines the range of possible hairstyles based on length and cut.
What influences hairstyle choices?
Personal taste, cultural trends, and the nature of the haircut influence hairstyle choices.
How do I maintain my hairstyle?
Use appropriate hair products and styling tools based on your hair type and desired look.
Can a hairstyle be a signature look?
Yes, many people have a go-to hairstyle that becomes part of their personal identity.
Are haircuts important for hair health?
Regular haircuts can prevent split ends and maintain hair health.
Are haircuts gender-specific?
No, haircuts are not inherently gender-specific.
Does hair texture affect haircut and hairstyle options?
Yes, the texture can limit or expand the styles that look best and are manageable.
How do I know which hairstyle suits me?
Consult with a stylist or use virtual hairstyle apps to see what complements your features.
What should I consider when choosing a haircut?
Consider your face shape, hair texture, lifestyle, and maintenance level.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
