13 People Whose Hair Expectations Turned Into A Major Fail We Can't Stop Laughing About

Not everyone in this world appreciates hairdressers and hairstylists to the extent they deserve. The truth is that most of them are dedicated and passionate artists who have spent a lot of time and money honing a skill they enjoy and care about.

The problem is that there are also more than enough hairdressers out there who operate well below average, yet they still have jobs in salons all over the place. What happens when you bring photos of the hair you want to a subpar stylist?

Horrible things. Hilarious things.

Whether you laugh or scream depends on whether it's your hair or a picture you're looking at. The subreddit dedicated to expectations versus reality has served us well in highlighting epic hair fails... and we can't stop laughing.

1. "Stylish Part Line"

Honestly, I'm cackling.

u/blinkergoesleft

2. "Expectations Vs. Reality: Curly Hair"

Awwww, giving off some nice, creepy murder doll vibes.

u/Yugen9x

3. "Just Another Expectation and Reality Haircut"

This is what you all get for trying to modernize the bowl cut in the first place.

u/khaideptrai

Expectations vs. Reality in Self-Image

The gap between hair expectations and outcomes can be linked to cognitive biases, particularly the 'halo effect,' where initial impressions skew judgment. Research from the University of Pennsylvania emphasizes how unrealistic beauty standards can warp self-perception and lead to dissatisfaction, regardless of the actual outcome.

Many people base their expectations on curated images from social media, which often showcase edited and idealized versions of reality. This can foster a negative self-image and a sense of failure when personal expectations aren't met.

4. "Balayage Hair Colour"

Sure it is.

u/TheSoulOfTheRose

5. "Went to My Hairdresser with This Pic Today ... FML"

Honestly, shame on the hairdresser for not explaining that they didn't know how to do this.

u/prettyshittykitty101

6. "What My Hair Looked Like - What I Asked For - and How It Turned Out"

Poor thing.

u/carli_snyder

To mitigate these negative feelings, it’s crucial to promote realistic standards and self-acceptance. Encouraging individuals to appreciate their unique features while embracing imperfections can lead to improved body image. Cognitive-behavioral strategies, such as reframing negative thoughts and focusing on positive attributes, can be beneficial.

Practical tips include engaging with content that uplifts rather than diminishes self-esteem and finding community support that celebrates diversity in beauty. These strategies can help individuals cultivate a more positive self-image and reduce the impact of external pressures.

7. "Went to the Hair Salon Today. Asked for What's on the Left. Walked Out with the Right. Now I Have to Find Someone to Fix It"

That's not even close.

u/missDyn0mite

8. "The First Picture Was Taken by My Hairstylist to Showcase My New Haircut and Color. The Second Picture Is the Photo *I* Took Today, When I Realized What the Curls and Bright Lights Were Trying to Hide."

OH NO

u/kittenfloof8

9. "Platinum Hair Expectation vs. Reality"

Platinum hair is something that the hairdressers of social media seethe about when it comes to your expectations.

u/kirakirst

Psychological Insights into Self-Comparison

Social comparison theory posits that individuals evaluate their own worth by comparing themselves to others. Research in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology shows that these comparisons can lead to feelings of inadequacy, particularly when individuals focus on idealized representations of beauty.

Understanding this theory can help individuals recognize that comparisons are often based on distorted perceptions, leading to unrealistic expectations and disappointment.

10. "What My Wife Wanted on the Left vs. What She Got on the Right"

Clumpy :)

u/waggie21

11. "My Friend Wants to Go to School to Be a Hairdresser; I Let Her Practice on My Hair..."

Mistakes were made... by OP.

u/KillTh3King

12. "Mermaid Hair, How Hard Could It Be?"

Pretty hard.

u/MintBB

Taking a step back to analyze one’s own values and the influences of media can foster a healthier perspective. Engaging in activities that promote self-expression, such as art or writing, can redirect focus from external validation to personal fulfillment. This shift can empower individuals to redefine beauty on their own terms, leading to greater overall satisfaction.

Therapeutic approaches that emphasize self-compassion can also help individuals navigate these feelings. Research indicates that practicing self-kindness can enhance emotional resilience and reduce the harshness of self-criticism.

13. "Since We Are Sharing Bad Hair Experiences... Here’s Mine. Left Is What I Wanted, Right Is What I Got."

C for effort.

u/HumongousFungus123

The Importance of Self-Compassion

Incorporating self-compassion can be a powerful antidote to feelings of failure. Dr. Kristin Neff's work emphasizes that treating oneself with kindness rather than judgment fosters emotional well-being. Her research shows that individuals who practice self-compassion tend to have lower levels of anxiety and depression.

By recognizing that everyone experiences setbacks, individuals can create a more forgiving internal dialogue, which is essential for mental health.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

These insights underline the complexities of expectations versus reality in personal aesthetics. As psychological studies show, understanding the psychological underpinnings of self-image can empower individuals to embrace their uniqueness. Ultimately, fostering self-acceptance is key to navigating societal pressures and finding personal satisfaction.