I had a haircut at Badlands Hair Studio on March 21 with Kiersten after scheduling a separate consultation to discuss my hair type and the exact result I wanted.
I clearly explained that I have very dense 2B hair that becomes puffy and rounded if not cut correctly, and that I needed a soft, airy shape with movement. I provided reference photos and we discussed everything in detail. Kiersten was very confident, told me previous stylists had mishandled my hair, and reassured me she understood my texture and density.
When I arrived, my hair was shoulder length, healthy, and naturally soft with movement. Kiersten even asked if I had gotten a blowout because of how it naturally falls.
The result does not reflect what was discussed. Instead of removing weight internally, the cut added stacked layers throughout the top, creating a dense, rounded shape that does not move. This is a structural cutting issue, not a styling issue.
The most significant issue is that the entire structure of the cut is reversed from what I asked for. In all of my reference photos, the back is full, layered, and maintains length. In my case, the back was cut significantly shorter and hollowed out, removing all density and natural movement. This is why the cut now collapses flat and forms a block shape--it has no structural support left.
During the service, there was a point where the top became visibly puffy and difficult to manage. Kiersten paused, appeared unsure how to handle it, and brought up thinning shears. I reiterated that thinning and razors damage my hair and cause exactly this issue, which she acknowledged. Instead of adjusting technique, she continued cutting and added more layers through the crown, which compounded the problem.
The back is especially concerning. My natural curls along the bottom were cut out entirely, leaving what feels like an undercut or missing shelf beneath heavier layers. This is the same issue I had previously explained and was assured would not happen again.
The final shape resembles a grown-out pixie rather than the soft, shoulder-length cut we discussed. I have washed, styled, and straightened my hair, and the issue remains. It does not move and does not resemble what was agreed upon.
At this point, this cannot be corrected with additional cutting without making it worse. My only option is to let it grow out or cut it significantly shorter, which is not what I asked for.
I have reached out to the stylist and salon via Instagram and email (twice) with photos and have received no response. The lack of acknowledgment is unacceptable.
This reflects a breakdown in consultation, execution, and accountability. I would strongly caution anyone with dense or textured hair to think carefully before booking here. read more