What Is a Lob Haircut?
A lob is a long bob: a cut that ends somewhere between your chin and your shoulders. It is popular because it is easy to wear down or tied back, it works on many hair types and it sits comfortably between a short cut and long hair. It is also a gentle first step if you want a change without losing all your length.
Key takeaways
- A lob usually ends between the chin and the collarbone.
- Blunt, layered, textured and angled versions suit different textures.
- Point to where you want it to end, and say how you plan to style it.
How Long Is a Lob, Exactly?
There is no exact length. A lob usually ends between the chin and the collarbone, often at or just above the shoulders.
Because the ends can sit close to the shoulders, a lob may flip slightly where it meets them. Some people like that movement, and some choose a length that avoids it.
What Separates a Bob From a Lob?
A bob generally ends around the jaw or chin, and a lob is longer. That extra length means you can usually still tie it back or tuck it behind your ears.
A lob keeps much of the ease of a shorter cut. It is a good bridge if you are growing out a bob or trimming long hair and are not ready for something very short.
Who Does a Lob Suit?
A lob suits many people, because the length is easy to shape.
- Fine hair. A blunt or softly layered lob can make the ends look fuller.
- Thick hair. Some shaping inside the cut takes out weight so it sits well.
- Wavy and curly hair. A lob can show off natural movement when it is cut with your texture in mind.
- Straight hair. A lob can be sleek and polished, or tousled with texture.
What Are the Main Kinds of Lob?
The Blunt Lob
The ends are cut straight across for a clean, crisp line. It works especially well on straight, thick hair and shows off healthy ends.
The Layered Lob
Layers add movement and make the cut easier to style in waves. It suits fine and wavy hair, because layers can create the look of fullness.
The Textured Lob
The ends are cut with some irregularity for a lived-in look. It is easy to wear tousled and forgiving between trims.
The Angled Lob
This version is a little longer in front than in the back, so it frames the face and adds shape. It is a good choice if you want a bit of drama without going short.
What Should You Think About Before Going Shorter?
Think about how you wear your hair most days. If you like to tie it back, check that the length will still reach a ponytail.
If you use hot tools a lot, plan on a heat protectant, because the ends of a lob are always on view. If you are cutting off a lot of length, consider doing it in stages.
Color matters too. A lob shows off dimensional color well, and our balayage services can add soft brightness through the lengths.
How Do You Ask for a Lob?
- Bring a photo and point to where it should end.
- Choose blunt, softly layered or textured.
- Show where you part it: in the middle, on the side or both.
- Explain how you plan to style it: straight, wavy or air dried.
- Mention it if the cut needs to go up in a ponytail.
At SALT, we cut French, from the top down, to follow your head shape. Our article on French haircutting explains how that shapes a lob around you, and our haircuts page shows what every women's cut includes.
How Do You Style and Maintain a Lob?
A lob is usually quick to style. Air drying can work well, a blow-dry adds polish, and a curling iron or wand can add soft waves.
Use a heat protectant before hot tools. Upkeep depends on the version: a blunt lob shows its line and likes a regular trim, while a layered one is more forgiving.
Is a Lob a Good Step If You Are Growing Out a Shorter Cut?
Yes. A lob is a natural stop on the way from a bob to longer hair, because the shape still looks finished while the length catches up.
Regular shaping trims keep the line clean as it grows. Still deciding on a length? Our guide to choosing the right haircut walks through the options.
For the full picture of a first visit, see our haircuts page, and pick a stylist from our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Lob a Good Cut for Thin Hair?
It can be. Keeping weight at the ends can make hair look fuller, so ask for a shape suited to your density.
Can a Lob Still Go Into a Ponytail?
Usually, yes, though short pieces near the neck may fall out. Say so if a ponytail matters to you.
Does a Lob Work With Bangs?
Yes. A lob works with many fringes, and your stylist can suggest one for your face and hair.
How Does Curly Hair Change Where a Lob Lands?
Curls spring up as they dry, so the cut sits shorter than it looks wet. Say where you want it to land once dry.
Is a Lob High Maintenance?
Usually not. Styling is quick and the length is forgiving, though a blunt version needs regular trims to keep its line.
Book Your Next Visit
Thinking about a lob? Book a haircut online, bring a photo and we will shape it around your hair. Current times are on the Haircuts + Styling menu.
