Are you looking to add some dimension to your hair by cutting layers? While it may seem daunting, cutting layers at home is possible with the right tools and technique. Not to mention, it can save you money on salon appointments. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to cut layers in hair at home, from the tools you'll need to the step-by-step process.
Table of Contents
- Tools You'll Need
- Prepping Your Hair
- Sectioning Your Hair
- Cutting Your Layers
- Blending Your Layers
- Tips for Cutting Layers at Home
- FAQs
- Hair Care After Cutting Layers
Tools You'll Need
Before you get started, you'll need a few tools to cut layers in your hair:
- Sharp hair cutting scissors
- Comb
- Clips to section your hair
- Optional: hair thinning shears for blending
Make sure your scissors are sharp, as dull scissors can cause split ends and damage your hair. You can find hair cutting scissors at most drugstores or online.
Prepping Your Hair
It's important to start with clean, dry hair before cutting layers. This will give you a better idea of how your hair naturally falls and how much length you want to take off.
Once your hair is dry, brush it out to remove any tangles or knots. You can also use a detangling spray to make the process easier.
Sectioning Your Hair
Next, divide your hair into sections. Start by parting your hair down the middle and then create a section from ear to ear, clipping the rest of your hair out of the way.
Take the section of hair and divide it in half horizontally, clipping the top half out of the way. This will be where you start cutting your layers.
Cutting Your Layers
Starting at the front of your hair, take a small section of hair from the bottom and hold it between your fingers. The amount of hair you take depends on how thick you want your layers to be - a smaller amount will result in shorter, choppier layers, while a larger amount will create longer, more blended layers.
Hold the hair between your fingers and cut at an angle, starting with the outermost layer of hair. This will create a guide for the rest of your layers. Continue working your way up the section of hair, cutting at an angle until you reach the top.
Repeat this process on the other side of your hair, making sure to match the length and angle of your layers.
Blending Your Layers
Once you've finished cutting your layers, you can use thinning shears to blend the layers together. Take small sections of hair and use the thinning shears to remove some of the bulk. This will create a more seamless look.
Tips for Cutting Layers at Home
- Start with small sections of hair and work your way up. You can always cut more, but you can't add length back once it's cut.
- Use a comb to help guide your scissors and create a straighter cut.
- Don't cut your hair when it's wet, as it will be longer and may result in shorter layers than you intended.
- Take breaks and step back to assess your progress. It's easy to get carried away and cut too much, so take your time.
FAQs
Can I cut my own hair if it's curly?
Yes, you can still cut your own hair if it's curly, but keep in mind that curly hair tends to bounce up when it's cut. Start with smaller sections of hair to avoid cutting too much off.
What if I mess up?
It's okay if you make a mistake - hair grows back! If you're really unhappy with the results, you can always go to a salon to have it fixed.
Hair Care After Cutting Layers
After cutting your layers, make sure to take care of your hair to keep it healthy and looking its best. Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair nourished and moisturized. You can also use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to minimize frizz and add shine.
Now that you know how to cut layers in hair at home, you can experiment with different lengths and styles to find what works best for you. Just remember to take it slow and have fun!