Should I Get Bangs? Top Tips and a Quiz to Help You Decide (2024)

Torn between getting bangs or not? Check out what suits your face shape, hair type, and daily routine with these tips for making the best choice.

If you’re asking, “Should I get bangs?” you’re definitely not alone. Getting bangs can feel disconcerting, especially when you have to factor in lots of things, like your face shape, hair type, and styling routine. It comes down to more than just a haircut; it’s about how much maintenance you’re willing to do, and how comfortable you’ll be when it’s growing out. Are bangs worth it for you?

To make things easier, consider trying our Virtual Styler — a quick, hassle-free tool to see exactly how different bang styles would look on you, helping you solve the bangs-or-no-bangs dilemma confidently.

Highlights:

• To know if bangs will suit you, consider your hair texture, lifestyle, face shape, climate, and commitment level
• A quick four-question test can help you determine which type of bang is best for you
• The Virtual Styler offers free and affordable paid plans to let you try on bangs and explore various styles

How to Know if Bangs Will Work for You

Getting your bangs cut can feel like a big step, and it’s only smart to think it through before you take the plunge. Factors like hair texture, lifestyle, face shape, and even the climate you live in all matter, and each one can help you answer the burning question, “Would I look good with bangs?” Here are the main aspects that will help you decide whether bangs fit into your life — or if there are reasons not to get bangs.

Hair Texture

It’s common to hear, “Bangs won’t work if your hair is curly or wavy.” The truth? Wavy and curly hair can pull off bangs, but it depends on your hair’s specific texture and density. Vanessa Koeb, a hair transformation specialist, explains: “My main criteria for choosing the perfect bangs involve assessing the client’s general hair characteristics, like density and texture.”

Fine or straight hair might work with wispy bangs, while thicker, wavier hair could benefit from a curtain bang that softens the waves. Koeb also adds that she considers hairline bumps, which might make certain bang styles harder to maintain. So, while texture matters, there’s often a way to make it work with the right advice.

Lifestyle

Do you have time to do your hair every morning? Styling your bangs can require extra effort, which may not fit every schedule. As Emily Hamilton Calton, a haircutting specialist, puts it, “It might be a little bit more work in the morning.”

If your schedule is packed, get longer curtain or side-swept bangs that are easier to manage and don’t need daily fussing. Whether you have time for blow-drying or just want to air dry, your lifestyle can help narrow down your bang options — or determine if you should get bangs in the first place.

Face Shape

The “one style fits all” idea isn’t quite true here. Your face shape can play a big role in determining the right bangs for your face. In fact, well-chosen bangs will balance your face shape and even make you look younger.

For an oval face shape, most bang types work well, both Koeb and Calton agree. Round faces benefit from curtain or soft, feathered bangs that avoid emphasizing the roundness. A long, curtain-style bang can flatter square and oblong faces by softening strong lines and adding balance. For heart-shaped faces, heavy long fringes or side-swept fringes are ideal.

Ultimately, there is no final rule. As Koeb points out, “Everyone has different elements that can mix things up and help to achieve any type of fringe.”

Climate in Your Area

Climate is another major factor. Ever heard, “You can’t have bangs if you live in a humid climate — they’ll always be a frizzy mess”? Humidity can be tough on bangs, but the right cut can help.

For example, Calton recommends longer curtain bangs for clients in humid areas, as these don’t sit directly on the forehead and tend to stay manageable. So while climate matters, you can still work with it by choosing a bang style that’s suited to your weather.

Readiness for Commitment

Some people fear that bangs are a huge commitment and you won’t be able to grow them out easily. While growing them out isn’t impossible, it does take patience.

Bangs are only worth it if you’re comfortable with the styling upkeep — and if you’re willing to go through the sometimes awkward phase when growing out your bangs. Curtain bangs and soft face-framing bangs often transition more easily, allowing you to experiment with less commitment.

Try Before You Commit

If you’re still on the fence, a Virtual Styler can help you try on various bang styles online, saving you from a potentially regret-filled fringe haircut. With our pricing options, you can experiment with multiple styles for a fraction of a salon consultation.

It’s your affordable, low-risk way to answer the question, “Would I look good with bangs?” and feel good about your decision before you head to the salon.

What to Know About Bangs’ Maintenance

If you’re wondering how to know if bangs suit you, understanding the maintenance involved can make or break the deal. Bangs bring their own upkeep routine — to look good in bangs takes more than just a trim every now and then. So, here are some key aspects to consider before cutting your bangs.

1. Trims are non-negotiable. To keep bangs at their ideal length and shape, expect to trim your bangs every 2-4 weeks. Growing out your bangs takes patience, so if you’re planning to stick with them, be ready for this level of commitment.
2. The right styling is essential. Bangs are front and center, so they often need extra attention to keep them looking polished. Koeb advises using a medium round brush and drying bangs with low heat. “Moving the bangs side to side with the brush helps soften the texture,” she says, adding that finishing with a blow-dry at a flat angle can help set the shape. This can be paired with a heat protector to keep hair healthy.
3. Washing can be a bit more frequent, especially if you have oily skin or live in warmer climates. Since bangs lay on your forehead, they can pick up oil from the T-zone, leading to a greasy look. Calton suggests using dry shampoo to help you keep your hair fresh without daily washing.
4. Seasonal adjustments are another factor. In humid summer months, bangs might need extra anti-frizz products, while in winter, they can benefit from added moisture.
5. If you color your hair, be prepared for touch-ups. Since bangs sit right at the front, any regrowth or fading will be noticeable, requiring more consistent upkeep.

Despire additonal maintenance requirements, many women are ready to commit once they find a super flattering bangs style! Are you ready to find yours?

Quick Quiz To Find the Right Bangs for Your Face

To figure out whether you should get bangs or not, try a quick, four-question test. It will not only tell if you’ll rock the look, but also help you find the perfect type of bang to suit your face.

1. How Wide Is Your Forehead?

Narrow foreheads typically benefit from lighter, wispy bangs that don’t overpower the face. Medium to wide foreheads can carry off bolder, full bangs. This helps balance out your facial proportions.

2. What Is the Shape of Your Face?

Oval faces suit most bang styles, from side-swept to blunt. Round faces may benefit from side bangs or curtain bangs that add angles. Square faces work well with soft, layered bangs to offset an angular jawline.

3. Are Your Cheekbones Prominent or Subtle?

If you’ve got prominent cheekbones, side-swept or curtain bangs can really make them pop by drawing attention to the center of your face. If your cheekbones are more subtle, short bangs or baby bangs can help highlight them.

4. Is Your Jawline Angular or Soft?

Angular jawlines can be softened with longer, layered bangs, while soft jawlines work with both blunt bangs and side-swept styles.

These questions are a quick way to help you decide if bangs are your best move — and if so, which type will make the most of your natural features.

Want To See If You’d Look Good with Bangs? Here’s How

Deciding if bangs are right for you is easier than ever with our Virtual Styler. Whether you’re just curious about a quick look with or without bangs, or you’re looking for a serious styling tool, we’ve got options to suit your needs.

You can start with a free option for a quick glimpse, or choose from affordable paid plans to see multiple styles and discuss various options with your near ones. Whether you want a simple “bangs filter” for a quick check or a more in-depth experience, the Virtual Styler help you confidently answer, “Would I look good with bangs?”

Deciding between bangs or no bangs ultimately depends on your personal style, commitment level, and willingness to work with your hair’s unique needs. With countless bang styles to explore — and tools like the Virtual Styler to help — it’s never been easier to find the perfect look that suits your features and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

FAQ

Is there a way to try on bangs virtually before making them?

Yes! If you’re wondering how to know if bangs will suit you, try our AI-based hair changer tool. It lets you “get bangs” virtually, so you can see different styles before committing — like a try-before-you-cut option!

How does your bangs filter work?

Our bangs filter is super easy to use! Just upload a good-quality selfie where you’re facing the camera straight on. The Virtual Styler applies a realistic bangs filter, letting you visualize different styles on your face. You can see how bangs look without committing — or quickly “hide your bangs” if you change your mind!

What face shape do bangs not look good on?

There’s really no face shape that bangs don’t look good on — it’s all about picking the right style. But one of the main reasons not to get bangs is if you’re unsure about upkeep or aren’t ready for the commitment.

Will the bangs fit my current haircut and hair length?

Bangs can work with almost any haircut or length, whether you’ve got a bob or long hair. Just talk to your stylist about the best bang style to blend with your current cut, whether it’s long or short.

How do I know if bangs will complement my personal style?

To see if bangs fit your vibe, think about your personal style. Are you into bold, edgy looks or more laid-back, classic ones? For instance, micro bangs give a daring, high-fashion touch, while longer curtain bangs keep things softer and more relaxed.