Best Hairstyle Apps 2025: Free vs Paid Comparison
Compare the top hairstyle apps and websites in 2025. We’ve tested every major platform to help you choose the right tool for previewing new styles before your salon visit.
Quick Comparison: Top 6 Hairstyle Apps
| App / Website | Free Version | Browser Support | Registration | Real-Time Preview | Photo Upload | Style Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ChangeMyHairstyle | ✅ Full Access | ✅ Desktop & Mobile | ✅ None Required | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Quick, no-commitment previews |
| YouCam Makeup | ⚠️ Limited Features | ❌ App Only | ❌ Required | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Professional AR features |
| The Right Hairstyles | ⚠️ 1 Style Only | ✅ Yes | ❌ Email Required | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ⭐⭐ | Basic style suggestions |
| TRESemmé Styler | ✅ Free | ❌ Mobile Only | ❌ Contact Info | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ⭐⭐ | Brand-specific looks |
| Sally Beauty ColorView | ✅ Free | ❌ App Only | ❌ Required | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⭐⭐ (Color Only) | Hair color testing |
| Ulta Beauty AR | ⚠️ Limited | ❌ App Only | ❌ Account Needed | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⭐⭐ | Product previews |
Last updated: September 2025 | Suggest an app or correction
Detailed App Reviews & Analysis
1. ChangeMyHairstyle – Browser-Based Solution
A completely browser-based platform requiring no downloads or registration. Users can instantly preview styles using photo upload or live camera. The interface prioritizes speed and simplicity over advanced features.
- Pros: No barriers to entry, works on any device, privacy-focused
- Cons: **Cons:** Can’t be embedded into third-party websites
- Best for: Users wanting quick previews without commitments
2. YouCam Makeup – Professional AR Platform
Developed by Perfect Corp, this app leads in AR technology for beauty applications. The app offers sophisticated face tracking and realistic hair rendering, though premium features require subscription.
- Pros: Industry-leading AR technology, extensive style library
- Cons: Requires app download, premium features cost $4.99-9.99/month
- Best for: Users wanting professional-grade previews
3. The Right Hairstyles – Email-Based Service
This website offers style recommendations based on face shape analysis. The free version provides one randomized suggestion after email submission. Full access requires paid membership.
- Pros: Face shape analysis included
- Cons: Email required, limited free options
- Best for: Users seeking personalized recommendations
4. TRESemmé Virtual Styler – Brand Experience
A promotional platform showcasing TRESemmé-inspired looks. Requires QR code scanning and mobile device access. Primarily designed to promote brand products rather than provide comprehensive style options.
- Pros: Professional salon styles
- Cons: Limited to brand looks, mobile-only
- Best for: TRESemmé product users
5. Sally Beauty ColorView – Color Specialist
Focuses exclusively on hair color visualization through mobile app or in-store kiosks. Excellent for testing shades before purchasing color products, but doesn’t offer cut or style changes.
- Pros: Accurate color representation
- Cons: Color only, no style changes
- Best for: Color selection before dying
6. Ulta Beauty Hair Try-On – Retail Integration
Integrated with Ulta’s product catalog, allowing virtual preview of items before purchase. Requires app download and account creation. Limited to products available at Ulta.
- Pros: Direct shopping integration
- Cons: Limited to Ulta products
- Best for: Ulta shoppers
How to Choose the Right Hairstyle App
Consider Your Needs:
- Quick Preview: Choose browser-based options without registration
- Professional Features: Invest in premium apps with advanced AR
- Color Testing: Use specialized color-focused tools
- Shopping Integration: Select retail-connected apps
Privacy Considerations:
Browser-based tools typically don’t store photos, while apps may retain data for improvements. Review privacy policies before uploading personal photos.
Technology Requirements:
- Browser tools: Work on any modern device
- Mobile apps: Require iOS 12+ or Android 8+
- AR features: Need devices with front-facing cameras
Frequently Asked Questions
Which app has the most hairstyles?
YouCam Makeup and ChangeMyHairstyle offer the largest style libraries, with hundreds of options across different lengths and types.
Are free hairstyle apps safe to use?
Browser-based tools are generally safer as they don’t require permissions. Always review app permissions before installing.
Can these apps suggest styles for my face shape?
Some apps like The Right Hairstyles include face shape analysis. Others focus purely on visualization without recommendations.
Do I need to pay for good results?
Several free options provide excellent results. Paid features typically add more styles, remove watermarks, or enable HD exports.
About This Comparison: Our testing of these hairstyle apps was conducted in September 2025. Features, pricing, and availability change frequently across different platforms. We recommend verifying current details directly with each service before making your choice. We attempt to update this review periodically to reflect major changes.
Ready to try a new look?