how to cut the sides of your hair
Essential Tools for Cutting the Sides of Your Hair
When it comes to cutting the sides of your hair, having the right tools is essential for achieving a clean and professional-looking result. Here are some key tools you’ll need:
1. Hair Clippers
Hair clippers are a must-have tool for cutting the sides of your hair. Look for clippers that come with different guard sizes, as this will allow you to adjust the length of your cut. It’s also important to choose clippers that have a sharp blade and are easy to handle.
Tips:
- Clean and oil your clippers before each use to ensure smooth operation.
- Start with a longer guard size and gradually work your way down to achieve your desired length.
2. Comb
A comb is necessary for sectioning off your hair and creating clean lines while cutting. Opt for a wide-toothed comb, as it will help detangle your hair without causing breakage or pulling.
Tips:
- Use the comb to divide your hair into sections before cutting, ensuring an even and precise trim.
- Keep the comb close by during the cutting process to guide your clippers along the desired path.
3. Scissors
In addition to clippers, scissors are handy for trimming any stray hairs or adding texture to your haircut. Choose sharp, professional-grade scissors specifically designed for cutting hair.
Tips:
- Use scissors sparingly and only on small areas where precision is required.
- Consider using thinning shears to remove bulk and create a more blended look.
4. Mirror
A mirror is crucial for seeing the back of your head while cutting the sides of your hair. Invest in a large, well-positioned mirror that allows you to view your hair from different angles.
Tips:
- Place the mirror in a well-lit area to ensure optimal visibility.
- Consider using a handheld mirror to get a closer look at hard-to-reach areas.
5. Haircutting Cape or Towel
To prevent hair clippings from getting on your clothes, use a haircutting cape or drape a towel around your shoulders. This will make cleanup much easier and keep you comfortable throughout the process.
Tips:
- Choose a cape or towel made of lightweight, waterproof material for easy cleaning.
- Secure the cape or towel tightly around your neck to prevent hair from falling inside.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cutting the Sides of Your Hair
Gather the necessary tools
Before you begin cutting the sides of your hair, make sure you have all the necessary tools. This includes a pair of sharp scissors or hair clippers, a comb, and hair clips to section off your hair. Having these tools ready will ensure a smooth and efficient haircutting process.
Clean and dry your hair
It is important to start with clean and dry hair before cutting the sides. This will allow for better control and accuracy when trimming. Wash your hair thoroughly using shampoo and conditioner, then towel-dry it until it is slightly damp. Avoid cutting wet hair as it can lead to uneven results.
Section off your hair
To properly cut the sides of your hair, you need to section it off. Start by parting your hair down the middle from forehead to nape, creating two equal sections. Use hair clips to secure each section separately. This will help you focus on one side at a time and prevent any confusion during the cutting process.
Trimming technique: Point cutting
One technique to consider when cutting the sides of your hair is point cutting. This involves holding the scissors vertically instead of horizontally and making small upward cuts into the ends of your hair. Point cutting helps create texture and softness while removing any blunt lines.
Trimming angle: 45 degrees
When cutting the sides of your hair, it is important to consider the angle at which you hold the scissors or clippers. A 45-degree angle is often recommended as it allows for a gradual taper that blends well with the rest of your hairstyle. Be cautious not to cut too much at once; remember that you can always trim more if needed.
Using these step-by-step instructions, proper sectioning techniques, and considering different trimming techniques and angles, you can achieve a well-groomed look when cutting the sides of your hair. Remember to take your time and be cautious to avoid any common mistakes that may lead to undesirable results.
Properly Sectioning Off Your Hair Before Cutting the Sides
Why is sectioning important?
Sectioning your hair before cutting the sides is crucial to ensure an even and balanced haircut. By dividing your hair into manageable sections, you can focus on one area at a time, making it easier to control and achieve the desired result. This technique also helps prevent any accidental mistakes or unevenness that may occur when cutting large sections of hair at once.
How to section off your hair:
1. Start by parting your hair down the middle from forehead to nape.
2. Take a comb and create a horizontal parting from ear to ear, separating the top section of your hair from the bottom.
3. Secure the top section with a clip or hair tie.
4. Divide the remaining bottom section into two equal parts by creating a vertical parting from forehead to nape.
5. Clip or tie away one side, leaving the other side free for cutting.
6. Repeat the process on the other side.
By following these steps, you can effectively divide your hair into manageable sections, allowing for precise and controlled cutting of the sides.
Tips for sectioning:
– Use clips or hair ties to keep each section separate and out of the way while you work on another area.
– Make sure each section is evenly divided and secured tightly to avoid any loose strands interfering with your cutting process.
– If needed, use additional clips or pins to hold back any shorter layers or bangs that may fall into the sections you are working on.
Remember, taking the time to properly section off your hair before cutting will greatly contribute to achieving a professional-looking haircut with well-blended sides.
Techniques and Angles to Consider When Cutting the Sides of Your Hair
1. Point Cutting:
Point cutting is a technique where you cut the hair at an angle, rather than straight across. This helps create texture and movement in the hair, resulting in a more natural-looking cut. To point cut the sides of your hair, hold the scissors vertically and make small, upward cuts into the hair.
2. Razor Cutting:
Razor cutting can be used to create softer, feathered ends on the sides of your hair. It involves using a razor tool to gently slide down the length of the hair, removing some of the bulk and creating a wispy effect. However, caution must be exercised as razor cutting may not be suitable for all hair types.
Tips for Achieving Clean Lines:
– Use a comb to section off the area you want to cut and clip away any excess hair.
– Hold your scissors parallel to your head while cutting for better control.
– Take small sections at a time to ensure precision and avoid making drastic mistakes.
Angles to Consider:
– Graduation: Cutting at an angle that creates layers or graduation in length from shorter at the top to longer towards the bottom.
– Blunt: Cutting straight across without any angles or layers.
– Tapering: Gradually decreasing length towards the bottom by cutting at an angle.
Remember, it’s always best to start with small adjustments and gradually trim more if needed. You can always go back and make additional cuts but fixing overly short hair can be challenging.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cutting the Sides of Your Hair
When cutting your own hair, it’s important to avoid certain mistakes that could result in an uneven or unflattering haircut. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:
1. Overcutting:
One of the most common mistakes is cutting off too much hair at once. It’s better to trim small sections gradually and assess the results before proceeding further. Remember, you can always cut more, but you can’t put hair back once it’s been cut.
2. Ignoring Natural Hair Growth Patterns:
Each person’s hair has its own unique growth patterns and textures. It’s crucial to pay attention to these natural characteristics when cutting the sides of your hair. Cutting against the grain or ignoring natural cowlicks can lead to an uneven and difficult-to-style haircut.
Tips for Avoiding Mistakes:
– Start with clean, dry hair so you can see the true length and texture.
– Use sharp scissors specifically designed for cutting hair.
– Take breaks during the process to step back and assess your progress.
– If in doubt, seek professional help or advice from a hairstylist.
By being mindful of these mistakes and taking precautions, you can achieve a satisfactory result when cutting the sides of your own hair.
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Determining the Ideal Length to Remove from the Sides of Your Hair
Understanding Your Face Shape
Determining the ideal length to remove from the sides of your hair starts with understanding your face shape. Different face shapes require different haircuts to enhance their features. For example, if you have a round face, removing more length from the sides can create a slimming effect. On the other hand, if you have an oval face, keeping some length on the sides can help balance out your features. It’s important to consult with a hairstylist or do some research to identify which haircut will best suit your face shape.
Taking Measurements
To determine how much length to remove from the sides of your hair, you can take measurements using a comb and a mirror. Start by combing your hair straight back and measuring from the top of your ear to where you want the cut to end. This will give you an idea of how much hair needs to be trimmed off. Remember that it’s always better to start with less and gradually remove more if needed, as it’s easier to trim more hair than it is to grow it back.
Recommended Hairstyles that Complement Trimmed Side Sections
Pixie Cut
One hairstyle that complements trimmed side sections is a pixie cut. This short and chic haircut features longer layers on top and shorter sides, creating a stylish contrast. The trimmed side sections add dimension and frame the face beautifully. It’s a versatile hairstyle that works well for various face shapes and can be styled in different ways depending on your preference.
Undercut
Another recommended hairstyle that complements trimmed side sections is an undercut. This edgy haircut involves shaving or trimming the hair very short on one or both sides while leaving more length on top. The contrast between the trimmed sides and the longer top creates a bold and modern look. It’s a great option for those who want to make a statement and experiment with different styling options.
Dampening or Working with Dry Hair: What’s Best for Cutting the Sides?
Working with Damp Hair
When it comes to cutting the sides of your hair, working with damp hair is generally recommended. Damp hair is easier to control and manipulate, allowing for more precise cuts. To dampen your hair, you can either spray it lightly with water or use a spray bottle filled with a mixture of water and leave-in conditioner. Make sure not to soak your hair as excessive moisture can cause uneven cutting.
Working with Dry Hair
While working with damp hair is preferred, cutting the sides of your hair can also be done on dry hair if necessary. However, keep in mind that dry hair tends to have more volume and may not lay as flat as dampened hair. This can make it slightly more challenging to achieve an even cut. If you choose to work with dry hair, consider using clips or sectioning off your hair to ensure better control during the cutting process.
The Importance of Mirrors or Assistance when Cutting the Sides of Your Own Hair
Using Multiple Mirrors
When cutting the sides of your own hair, having multiple mirrors is crucial for achieving accurate results. Position one mirror in front of you and another behind you so that you can see both sides of your head simultaneously. This will help you maintain symmetry and ensure that both sides are cut evenly.
Seeking Assistance
If you’re unsure about cutting the sides of your own hair or find it too challenging, seeking assistance from a friend or family member can be beneficial. They can provide an extra set of eyes and hands to help you achieve a more precise and professional-looking cut. Having someone else assist you can also make the process less stressful and give you peace of mind.
Polishing and Achieving a Professional Look after Trimming the Sides
Blending with Scissors or Clippers
After trimming the sides of your hair, it’s essential to polish the cut for a professional look. To achieve this, use either scissors or clippers to blend any harsh lines or uneven sections. Start by combing your hair downward and carefully trim any excess length using small, controlled movements. This will help create a seamless transition between the trimmed sides and the rest of your hair.
Styling Products for Finishing Touches
To complete the polished look after trimming the sides, consider using styling products. Depending on your desired hairstyle, you can use products like pomade, wax, or hairspray to add texture, hold, and shine. Apply a small amount of product to your fingertips and work it through your hair, focusing on the trimmed side sections. This will enhance the overall appearance and ensure that your haircut looks professionally done.
In conclusion, by following the steps and techniques mentioned in this guide, you can easily achieve a stylish and well-groomed look by cutting the sides of your hair at home.
