If you're looking to save money on haircuts or simply want to try something new, cutting your own hair with clippers can be a great option. With a little practice and the right tools, you can achieve a professional-looking haircut right from the comfort of your own home. In this article, we'll go over the steps for how to cut hair with clippers by self, along with some tips and FAQs to help you get started.
Table of Contents
- Tools You'll Need
- Preparation
- Cutting Your Hair
- Tips for a Successful Haircut
- FAQs
- Hair Care After the Cut
Tools You'll Need
Before you get started, you'll need to gather some supplies. Here's what you'll need:
- Clippers with various guard sizes
- Comb
- Scissors
- Haircutting cape or towel
- Two mirrors (one large, one handheld)
- Clip or hair ties
Preparation
It's important to start with clean, dry hair, so be sure to wash and dry your hair before you begin. Next, put on your haircutting cape or drape a towel around your shoulders to catch any loose hairs. Set up your mirrors so you can see the back of your head, and choose the guard size you want to use for your first pass. You can always switch to a shorter guard size later if you want a shorter cut.
Cutting Your Hair
Here are the steps for cutting your hair with clippers:
- Start at the bottom of your head and work your way up. Use the longest guard size first and make a pass around the entire head, starting from the nape of your neck and moving upwards.
- Next, switch to a shorter guard size and make another pass around the head, starting from the bottom and moving upwards.
- Repeat step 2 with an even shorter guard size if desired, until you reach your desired length.
- Use scissors to trim any longer hairs that the clippers might have missed, especially around the ears and neckline.
- Use a comb to blend the different lengths together, using a sweeping motion from the shorter areas to the longer areas.
- Check your work using both mirrors to make sure the cut is even on all sides.
Remember to take your time and cut small sections at a time. It's always easier to take more off later than to try to fix a mistake.
Tips for a Successful Haircut
- Don't be afraid to ask for help from a friend or family member if you can't see the back of your head well enough.
- Start with a longer guard size and work your way down gradually to avoid cutting your hair too short.
- Use a handheld mirror to check the back of your head as you go.
- Make sure your clippers are well-oiled and maintained for optimal performance.
- Watch online tutorials or read guides for more tips and tricks.
FAQs
Can I cut my hair with regular scissors?
While it's possible to cut your hair with regular scissors, it's not recommended as it can be difficult to achieve an even cut. Clippers with guard sizes are designed specifically for cutting hair, and will give you more control and precision.
What should I do if I make a mistake?
If you accidentally cut your hair too short or make another mistake, don't panic! Depending on the severity of the mistake, you may be able to fix it by using a longer guard size or blending the shorter areas with the longer areas using scissors or a comb. If you're really unhappy with the result, you can always visit a professional stylist to correct the mistake.
How often should I cut my hair with clippers?
This will depend on your hair type and desired length, but most people can go 4-6 weeks between haircuts. If you're looking to maintain a shorter cut, you may need to cut your hair more frequently.
Hair Care After the Cut
Once you've finished cutting your hair, be sure to clean up any loose hairs and wash your hair to remove any remaining cut hair. You can then apply a styling product or leave it natural, depending on your preference. To maintain your new haircut, be sure to trim any split ends regularly and use a deep conditioning treatment once a week.
With these tips and steps, you'll be able to master cutting your own hair with clippers in no time. Just remember to take your time, start with a longer guard size, and don't be afraid to ask for help or consult a professional if needed.
