So, you decided to take a risk in the barber's chair. You went for something new. Tested out a different look. But as soon as the barber took the clippers to your dome, you knew something was wrong. Your face got red and panic washed over you. You couldn't escape the idea that played over and over in your head—this was a mistake. You almost feel guilty handing over that $5 tip, considering the man with the scissors basically turned you into a monster. But don't worry—there's hope for you and your haircut. Here's what to do if you really, really can't deal with your terrible haircut any longer.

Place the BlameDid the barber drop the ball, or he did simply execute your misguided plan? Be honest with yourself, and especially with your barber. If they're at fault, don't be shy. Speak up. A haircut should be an enjoyable experience, not one that leaves you traumatized. And after all, they may be able to salvage it with the proper info.

Hide ItHats: They're not just for style. They actually do a pretty great job of covering up your recent fight with a lawnmower. It helps if you're known as a guy who wears hats regularly, and if you have a job that allows you to sport headwear on the reg. If that sounds like you, then go with something classic. A hat in navy blue, black, or anything solid will make you look stylish without drawing attention to your scalp.

Buzz ItYou knew this option was coming. If going for a look that shakes things up is what got you into this mess in the first place, then why not double down? Of course, this isn't a commandment to go full Bruce Willis on everyone's ass. We're talking a good old fashioned buzz cut. If you're knew to buzz town, here's everything you need to know about doing it for the first time.

Live With ItMen have the tendency to confuse "new" and "different" with "terrible" and "awful," especially when it comes to the deceptive permanence of a haircut. So, before you go buzzing, covering, or demanding refund-ing, ask yourself whether or not your new look is worthy of such a severe reaction. Chances are, all you need is 24 hours, a little pomade, and the reassurance that, at the end of the day, it's just hair. The reason you needed a trim in the first place is also your saving grace, because it'll grow back.

Jake Woolf is a writer who has covered men’s style for over ten years and has contributed to GQ since 2014. A graduate of Parsons The New School for Design (good school, long name), he also has bylines at Robb Report, HighSnobiety, Pitchfork, and the defunct #menswear website Four Pins... Read moreWriterXRelated Stories for GQHair