Preparation
Cutting your own hair can be daunting, but with the right preparation, you can be successful. Before you begin cutting, make sure you have all the necessary supplies such as a pair of scissors, a comb, and clippers or a hair razor. You’ll also want to wash and dry your hair, and then brush it out until it is tangle-free. You’ll also want to decide if you want to cut wet or dry hair.
All of these steps are important to ensure a successful haircut:
- Gather supplies such as scissors, comb, and clippers or hair razor.
- Wash and dry hair.
- Brush out hair until it is tangle-free.
- Decide if you want to cut wet or dry hair.
Gather the necessary tools
Cutting your own hair can be an easy, affordable way to get the style you want. Before you begin, it’s important to assemble all of the items that you will need.
Make sure to have:
- some clips on hand to keep sections of hair separated and out of your way
- a good pair of scissors – preferably with blunt-tipped blades – to do the cutting.
- a handheld mirror so that you can see the back and sides of your head as you work.
Gathering all necessary supplies ahead of time will ensure that you are prepared for the job at hand and ready for successful results.
Wash and condition your hair
Before cutting, it’s important to thoroughly wash and condition your hair with the appropriate product for your hair type. This will ensure that all existing dirt, oils and styling products are removed and your cut will look much neater. When conditioning, make sure to concentrate the product on the ends of your hair where it will most benefit from extra hydration and nourishment.
Once you have gently towel-dried your hair, a wide tooth comb is all you need to brush out any remaining knots or tangles before you start snipping away.
Section your hair
Before you start cutting your own hair, it is important that you create sections. Separating the hair into four parts – crown, front left, front right and nape – will make it easier to evenly cut each section of your style.
To accurately section the hair, begin by creating a horizontal part from ear to ear as a dividing line for the top and back sections. Once this part is complete, further divide the top sections by creating a second horizontal part from temple to temple; this will create three main sections on the crown area – near crown parting line, mid-crown and far-back crown. The bottom section should be divided into two parts if you are cutting layers in this area as well. Use clips or a comb to hold each section up away from other sections while you cut.
Cutting the Layers
Cutting your own hair can be a great way to save money and customize your look in a way that works best for you. Layered hair can be especially beneficial since they add both dimension and texture to your style. If you want to create layers in your hair, there are some steps you can take to ensure the best results. Let’s explore the different methods for cutting layers for women:
Start with the bottom layer
When it comes to cutting layers into your hair, it’s best to start with the bottom layer. This layer should be just above the occipital bone at the back of your head; measure from the top of your ear downward and take small sections to cut. Cut each section into thin layers that gently curve from the shortest at the base and gradually become slightly longer as you reach the tips.
Take small amounts of hair for each section and make sure to keep a consistent length throughout for a flattering result. After completing this bottom layer, you can gradually increase the amount of length on each successive layer, with longer angles and sides that often blend together better than those from a straight-across cut.
Be prepared to give yourself several practice cuts – it will help you get comfortable cutting and styling your own layers!
Cut the top layer
Cutting layers into your own hair can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the technique. The top layer is the most important and challenging to cut. However, if you’re patient and follow this guide, you can achieve a salon-quality result at home.
Begin by combing out your entire head of hair and decide which length you would like your top layer to be. Divide your hair in half based on this length, with the top portion going from temple to temple over the crown of your head. Make sure that it is evenly divided by marking each section with clips at the temples, nape of neck, crown or ears.
The next step is to separate this top section into small subsections which will determine how much layering will take place. You can divide further as needed and each subsection should have its own clip before moving on to determine where to begin cutting. Starting at one ear and using a single-prong clip for each layer, lift up small sections of hair (no bigger than 1/4 inch). Cut upward starting approximately 1/2 inch from the end of the locks without combing it through as you go – this will create less tension on strands and allow for a more natural look when finished cutting. Continue around entire head until all desired layers have been cut or desired look achieved then move on to lower layers in same manner (if applicable).
With patience and practice, you can easily learn how to cut layers into your own hair for a stylish salon-viewed look right in your own home!
Cut the sides
When cutting the sides of your hair, start by sectioning off the top with a clip. Make sure that the majority of your hair is contained within the clip so it is out of the way. Take a small section at one side and hold it at a 90-degree angle away from your scalp. Determine how much length you will be removing and hold your scissors horizontally with the blades facing away from you. Cut in a slicing motion, angled downwards to create an even layer all the way across your head.
Once you have done this on one side, repeat in the same spot on the other side, angling downwards towards her ear. Take small sections of hair at a time to ensure that you have full control over each cut and make sure that both sides are even when finished.
Lastly, move on to texturing each section as desired before setting it aside for later styling use. Take very small strands of hair and point-cut towards their ends as well as giving them some layering by removing more for every strand you cut or texturize through low grade scissors or razor edge scissors. Do this around all areas of your head for full coverage with billowing layers before finally putting all pieces together for styling use with wax or mousse products.
Styling
Styling your own hair can be a fun and empowering experience. Before you start to cut anything, it’s important to become familiar with the basics of cutting. This includes the different types of hair layers and styles you can create.
This section will cover styling your layers, providing you with tips for cutting your own hair so you can achieve the perfect look.
Use a blow dryer to style your hair
Using a blow dryer is an easy way to style your hair after you cut it yourself at home. Before blow-drying, be sure to comb out any tangles and use the appropriate brush.
Start by using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer if you are looking for more volume and movement in your hair. Place the diffuser attachment close to the roots and angle it slightly as you move around your head in circular motions.
If you want more of a sleek look, start by combing through your hair with a paddle brush while pulling lightly on the roots – this will help minimize frizz. After this, apply a heat protectant styling product then use a concentrator nozzle attachment on your hairdryer while directing the heat downward. To keep heat off of the top layers, work with small sections at a time pushing each layer back as needed before drying it thoroughly with low intensity airspeed to avoid over-drying or not drying enough.
Once all of your hair is dried, take one or two inch sections of your layers and spritz each section lightly with hairspray as you pull them down between two fingers for hold and definition. Finally fog all over with hairspray for added protection from humidity and boost hold from being exposed to activities such as sport or dancing during busy days at home or away!
Use a curling iron to add texture
Curling irons are often used to create loose curls, enhance waves or add texture to straight hair. It is important to have the correct tools, such as a heat-resistant mat, clips, brush and comb, before attempting to curl the hair with a curling iron. Additionally, professionals recommend using professional hair products specifically made for use with hot styling tools.
When curling the hair with a curling iron, it is important to consider the length of hair and choice of barrel size for creating different looks. Professional hairstylists suggest starting at the roots of the upper layers of your hair and then working your way down. Sectioning your hair will allow you to style each section separately without missing an area. After all sections have been curled, it may be helpful to spray a light-hold hairspray on your curls in order to lock them in place throughout the day.
Apply hairspray to finish the look
Once you have completed your cut, apply a light-hold hairspray to complete the look. A light-hold hairspray can help set the style and keep it in place. Start by holding your hairdryer about 8-10 inches away from your head and spritz it around the shape of your layers, but not too close to avoid disrupting them.
You can also use hairspray to add texture and hold for a longer period of time. Spray the root area lightly with a moving motion, separating what had been clumped together as you go. This ensures each strand is fully protected and has flexible yet strong hold throughout the day.
Maintenance
Cutting your own hair in layers can be a great way to save money instead of going to the salon every couple of weeks. It may even encourage you to try out different styles and have more fun with your hair!
However, it’s important to keep in mind that maintenance is essential when it comes to DIY haircuts. In this section, we’ll discuss tips and tricks to ensure that you keep your layers looking great and lasting long:
Trim your layers every 6-8 weeks
Regular trims are essential if you want to keep your layered cuts looking sharp and modern. Depending on the length of your layers, you will typically need a trim every 6-8 weeks. To avoid an undesirable look, be sure to visit a hairstylist or barber for a professional trim as trying to cut layers yourself can be difficult and potentially damaging.
For best results, point cut the tips of each layer for the most natural look when what you want is subtle movement and body.
Use a deep conditioning treatment once a month
Once a month, deep conditioning your hair should be part of your regular hair care regimen. It’s important to add moisture and nutrients back into the hair so it can stay healthy and strong. Deep conditioning treatments help to restore shine, reduce split ends, and make hair easier to manage.
There are many products both in-salon and at home that provide deep conditioning treatments for your hair. It is best to choose a product that is specifically designed for the type of hair you have so you can get the most benefit from the treatment.
Once you’ve chosen which deep conditioning product to use, follow the instructions on the packaging carefully. Apply it from mid-shaft to ends of your hair and leave it on for 15 minutes or longer depending on what feels best with your own scalp’s needs. To ensure that you get an even application, go ahead and detangle your hair before applying the product and don’t forget to add a few drops of oil or serum afterwards if necessary as this helps keep moisture locked in your strands after rinsing out the treatment.
Lastly, when you’re done make sure that you:
- Rinse with lukewarm water until all residue is gone from your scalp and tendrils.
- This will help lock in additional shine!
Use a heat protectant spray before styling
Before you begin cutting your hair, it’s important to use a heat protectant spray to shield and protect your hair from the heat damage that styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners can cause. Pay special attention to any areas of dryness or split ends you might have.
Use a liberal amount of the protectant and evenly spread it over your hair using your hands or a wide-toothed comb. This will ensure any heat applied during the cutting process is distributed safely and evenly across all sections of hair, preventing unnecessary damage to each follicle.
