Q: I've had a disastrous haircut and am feeling nervous about going back to the same hair stylist. What do I do?

A: Unfortunately, correcting a bad haircut (or at least one that you're unhappy with) isn't always a quick fix. Hairstylist and co-owner of Tanaz Hair Body and Nails in Johannesburg, Shelene Shaer explains that it may take a few visits to get it right again. "While you may feel afraid to go back to the stylist who cut your hair incorrectly, it's worth revisiting them. It might just be a conversation but at least you'll be on the right path to correcting your cut over a period of a few visits."

But Shelene also advises that proper planning and finding a stylist who really listens to you is key to avoiding a horror haircut or colour. "A stylist who listens to you is worth far more than one who just is a fabulous cutter or colourist. If you're not sure that your stylist is really taking in what it is your want cut or colour-wise, instruct them on what it is you want them to do and then ask them to repeat your instructions back to you so you know that they've really heard you."

"Also, I find that planning a hairstyle isn't a huge feature in most women's lives. But taking the time to sit down with your stylist and having a proper conversation about where you're going with your cut and colour over the next few months or even year is the best way of making sure things are done the way you want them."

Here's how to get perfect curls.