Today I went from this: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3170/2748619022_b032b72290_m.jpg
to this: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3226/2747787193_17ddba4608_m.jpg

I'm so looking forward to having long healthy hair, but it's really fine and I have a ton of questions: Is tying my hair up in a scarf overnight as good as sleeping on a satin pillowcase?

What kind of scissors should I use to trim my hair?

What kind of product are safe or unsafe for my hair (I know bleaching, dying and perming are out, but what about styling products)?

Welcome, wendy_m!

I don't have fine hair, but I'll try to answer some of your questions. Depending on how it's used, I think the scarf would keep your hair more contained while you're sleeping. At this point in time, it *might* not make too much of a difference if you use a scarf or satin pillowcase. However, you might want to consider using a satin pillowcase or sleep cap when your hair gets longer. I could be wrong, though, so anyone is welcome to correct me.

As for scissors, I don't have a particular brand in mind. But get a good quality pair specifically made for cutting hair and don't use it for anything else.

I'm not too sure about styling products, but regular gel can be a bit drying so you might want to try aloe vera gel.

I think the others will be able to give you better answers, but I hope this helps somewhat.

Thanks Juri, I have regular styling gel and some conditioning pomade. I'll toss the gel out so I'm not tempted to use it. :)

I also forgot to ask last night if all hair pins are no-nos or are there are some that are non-damaging that I can use while my hair is in this funky stage? I'm starting to feel doomed to head bands and scarves as it sinks in that I cut everything off.

Hi, wendy_m!  Welcome to the boards.

First of all, I want to congratulate you on your bravery to cut off the damage.  I know from personal experience that it is tough to do, but worth it in the long run.

I have fine and medium hair that is curly so I use products made w/lot of moisture.  I use a gel called An'gel by Devacurl.  So, be sure to start reading labels!!

I agree mostly w/what juri said.  Be careful w/clips that have springs, if you try some be sure your hair doesn't get caught and pulled out.  I say try whatever appeals to you!  I make some of my own hair accessories w/good hair safe hair clips from Sally's beauty supply, low temp hot glue, felt and silk flowers from Michael's craft store.

You can see from my avatar the length of my hair, and I sleep with it loose.  I do use silk pillow cases.

Good Luck!!!

Hi wendy_m, welcome to LongLocks! I think your cut is cute! Just think, now you get to grow your hair out long and healthy! I, like Sakina, use DevaCurl products, except I am using the DevaCare products for damaged hair. You'll just have to start experimenting to see what products your hair does well on.
I find that tying my hair up at nights was rather difficult, as my hair may be a little shorter than yours. I found some satin pillowcases, they don't really prevent bed head for me at my length, they do lessen the friction and breakage.

I'll add my welcome to LongLocks and congratulate you on taking that very daring plunge with the hair cut.  In the long run you have done the right thing!

Sleeping with a scarf is fine, I find it easier to sleep on a satin pillow case - scarves never stay on my head.

Watch for alcohol in the styling products.  That will dry out your hair.  Another option to consider is aloe vera gel.  Be sure it is pure and does not contain alcohol.  It makes a nice styling gel.  I use it to contain the flyaways in my braids and anywhere else they pop up.

Scissors should be either a good hair scissors, or a good, sharp pair of embroidery scissors.  I use the embroidery scisssors to trim damaged ends.

Good luck on your hair journey.  We are here to help!

Hey Wendy! So how is your hair doing now? I am slowly getting length here. and will take a pic soon.
Hugs!
We will have long hair soon sweets!
Shell

Hi Wendy, now that 8+ months have passed I would love to see how much your hair has grown out!