I do have another Gorgon character, Ryo! When she's a tad older, she'd change her look into a side cut.

In my world, a Gorgon's "hair" does seem alive, but isn't really, there's no pain to be felt, even when cut. An adult (but sometimes younger) Gorgon also has the ability to control the amount and thickness of the snakes that grow, to suit whatever hair style they feel like having at the time. So don't worry, those cuties aren't hurt!

The snakes are essentially just another part of the person, so they'll show the emotions that the person is feeling.