Are you tired of spending loads of money at the hairdresser for a simple haircut? Look no further, because with a pair of clippers and a little bit of practice, you can easily cut your own hair at home. In this article, we will guide you through a simple step-by-step process to cut your hair with clippers like a pro.
Gather Your Tools
The first step in cutting your own hair with clippers is gathering all the necessary tools. Here’s a list of items you will need:
- A pair of hair clippers
- Clipper guards of varying lengths
- A comb
- Scissors
- A mirror
- A towel (optional)
Choose the Right Clipper Guard Length
The next step is to choose the right clipper guard length for the desired haircut. The guard determines how short or long the hair will be. The lower the guard number, the shorter the hair length will be. Higher guard numbers, on the other hand, will leave more length. For example, a guard number 1 will leave the hair ⅛ of an inch long, while a guard number 8 will leave the hair 1 inch long.
For a simple buzz cut, start with a higher guard number and work your way down if necessary. For a more detailed haircut, use a combination of clipper guards and scissors to achieve the desired length and style.
Use the Clippers
Now it’s time to start cutting. Begin by attaching the chosen clipper guard onto the clippers. Turn on the clippers and start at the back of the head, moving the clippers in an upward motion towards the crown. Continue moving the clippers in the same direction, using the comb as a guide to ensure an even cut.
When cutting around the ears and the neckline, use the clipper without a guard or a smaller guard for a more precise cut. Remember to go slowly and carefully, and always keep the clippers parallel to the head.
Create a Taper
If you want to create a taper, switch to a smaller clipper guard and start at the neckline. Use the clippers to create shorter and shorter lengths as you move up towards the crown. This will create a gradual fade from the longer hair at the top to the shorter hair at the bottom.
If you’re using scissors, pull the hair upward and point cut into the hair, rather than cutting straight across. This will help to create a softer, more natural look.
Clean Up the Edges
The final step is to clean up the edges. This includes trimming around the ears and the neckline with scissors, and using the clippers without a guard for a clean shave. Take your time and make sure the edges are clean and precise.
Use the mirror to check for any missed spots, and make any final adjustments as necessary.
Conclusion
Cutting your own hair with clippers may seem intimidating at first, but with a little bit of practice, it can save you time and money in the long run. Remember to choose the right clipper guard length, go slowly and carefully, and always keep the clippers parallel to the head. We hope this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to give yourself a professional-looking haircut at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cut my hair with regular scissors?
We do not recommend using regular scissors to cut hair, as they are not designed for this purpose and can lead to uneven cuts and split ends. Invest in a pair of hair cutting scissors for best results.
What should I do if I mess up my haircut?
If you make a mistake, it’s okay. Give yourself some time to cool off and evaluate the situation. You can always go to a professional hairdresser to fix any mistakes, or try to fix it yourself by trimming any uneven spots with scissors.
How often should I cut my hair?
This varies depending on how quickly your hair grows and the desired length of your hair. On average, we recommend cutting your hair every 4-6 weeks to maintain a neat and tidy appearance.
Can I use the same clippers for my body hair as well?
While it is possible to use the same clippers for both your hair and body hair, we do not recommend it. This is because body hair is thicker and courser than hair on your head, which can dull the clippers and affect their performance over time. Invest in a separate set of clippers for body hair.
Can I cut my hair wet or dry?
We recommend cutting your hair dry, as this will give you a more accurate idea of how the hair will look when styled. Wet hair tends to be longer and weighs down, which can lead to uneven cuts.
References:
- “10 Simple Steps to Cut Your Own Hair with Clippers like a Pro.” Men’s Variety. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://mensvariety.com/how-to-cut-your-own-hair-with-clippers/.
- “How to Cut Your Own Hair at Home.” Esquire. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.esquire.com/style/grooming/a32238457/how-to-cut-your-own-hair-at-home/.
- “The Best Hair Clippers for Home Use in 2021.” Good Housekeeping. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty-products/hair-clippers-reviews/a34909994/best-hair-clippers/.