Interactive Hair Length Chart

How it works

Hair length levels are named after body landmarks — shoulder, armpit, bra strap, waist — so they describe where hair falls, not just a number of inches. This hair length chart turns those landmarks into measurements and scales them to your height.

How length is measured

We measure from the crown — the top of the head — down the back to the ends, with the hair stretched straight. That is the convention used by most length charts and hair-growth challenges. Some people measure from the front hairline over the top of the head instead, which adds a few inches. Either works for tracking your own progress, as long as you always use the same method.

Why height matters

The levels are drawn for a 5′4″ (163 cm) frame, close to the average height of adult women in the U.S. On a taller body every landmark sits further from the crown, so the same 18 inches that reach bra-strap length at 5′4″ only reach the armpit at 6′0″. The chart scales each level in proportion to the height you choose. Real torsos vary — a long neck or a short waist can move a landmark by an inch or two — so treat the numbers as close guides.

Stretched vs shrunken

Curly and coily hair shrinks as it dries, often to half its real length or less. Levels always count the stretched length. If you wear your hair curly, it is normal to be at bra-strap length on paper while your wash-and-go sits around your shoulders. To check, gently stretch one section at the back, or measure after a blow-out or silk press.

Extensions

Bundles, wigs and braiding hair are sold by their straightened length. Straight and body-wave hair hangs at about that length when the top wefts start near the crown. Wavy and curly textures hang shorter — as a rule of thumb we take off about 10% for loose and deep waves and 20% for kinky-curly hair. These are estimates; check the seller's photos for the exact pattern.

Inches and centimeters

One inch is 2.54 cm. Use the unit switch above the chart to see every level in centimeters; extension lengths stay in inches because that is how they are sold.