After countless days and nights fantasizing about a chic, voluminous new hairstyle, many people decide to take the plunge and cut their own hair short layers. It’s a daring move, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Armed with the right tools, a steady hand, and a touch of confidence, you too can achieve the layered look you’ve always desired. However, before embarking on this hair-cutting adventure, it’s essential to prepare yourself with the necessary knowledge and techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of cutting your own hair short layers, providing detailed instructions and expert tips to ensure a successful outcome.
Before you grab your scissors, it’s imperative to gather the appropriate tools for the job. A sharp pair of hair-cutting shears is paramount, as dull blades can cause split ends and uneven cuts. Additionally, a wide-toothed comb will assist in detangling and sectioning your hair. A spray bottle filled with water will come in handy for dampening your hair, which makes it easier to cut. Lastly, a handheld mirror will provide you with a clear view of the back of your head, enabling you to cut evenly. With these essential tools at your disposal, you’re well-equipped to embark on your hair-cutting journey.
Before you begin cutting, it’s crucial to dampen your hair. Wet hair is more manageable and less likely to slip or move as you cut. Sectioning your hair into smaller sections will also make the process more manageable. Start by parting your hair down the middle, then divide it into four equal sections: two in the front and two in the back. Secure the sections you’re not working on with hair clips to keep them out of the way. Begin by cutting the hair at the back of your head. Hold a section of hair perpendicular to your head and use your fingers as a guide to determine the desired length. Cut the hair at a slight angle, following the natural curve of your head. Repeat this process for the remaining sections, gradually layering the hair as you move towards the front. Remember to take breaks as needed and check your progress to ensure you’re satisfied with the length and layering.
Determining Your Face Shape
Identifying your face shape is crucial before cutting your own hair into short layers. Understanding the contours and measurements of your face can guide you in selecting the most flattering hairstyle that complements your features.
Oval
An oval face is symmetrical and balanced, with a length slightly longer than the width. The forehead is wider than the jawline, which tapers gradually to a rounded chin. Oval faces are considered the most versatile for hairstyles, as they suit a wide range of cuts and styles.
| Characteristics |
|---|
| Balanced length and width |
| Forehead wider than jawline |
| Gradual taper to a rounded chin |
Round
A round face has a similar length and width, with a curved jawline and full cheeks. The forehead is slightly rounded, and the chin is often soft and undefined. Short layers can help to elongate a round face and create the illusion of a slimmer appearance.
| Characteristics |
|---|
| Equal length and width |
| Curved jawline |
| Full cheeks |
Square
A square face is characterized by a strong jawline and a forehead that is roughly the same width. The cheekbones are angular, and the face appears wide and straight-edged. Short layers with side-swept bangs can soften the angularity of a square face.
| Characteristics |
|---|
| Strong, straight jawline |
| Forehead and jawline similar in width |
| Angular cheekbones |
Sectioning and Preparing Your Hair
Preparing Your Hair
Before cutting, ensure your hair is clean, dry, and free of tangles. Dry hair provides a more accurate representation of its final length when cut. For optimal results, consider a lightweight detangling spray or serum to ensure smooth, manageable strands during the cutting process.
Sectioning Your Hair
Sectioning your hair is crucial for creating uniform layers. Begin by combing your hair to remove any knots or tangles. Use a comb or your fingers to divide your hair into sections. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Top Section: Separate the top section of your hair, starting from the crown down to the temples. Secure it with a clip or hair tie to keep it out of the way.
- Front Sections: Divide the front section into two equal parts, starting from the center of the forehead to the temples. Secure these front sections with hair clips.
- Side Sections: Section the remaining hair on each side of your head, separating the front and back sections. These side sections should extend from the temples to the nape of your neck.
- Back Section: Finally, take down the top section and comb it to remove any tangles. Divide it into two equal parts, creating a center parting. Secure one half of the back section with a clip.
| Sections | Description |
|---|---|
| Top Section | Crown to temples; secured with a clip |
| Front Sections | Two equal parts from forehead to temples; secured with clips |
| Side Sections | Front and back sections from temples to nape; separated on both sides |
| Back Section | Two equal parts created from center parting; one half secured |
Creating the Base Layer
Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hair
Start with freshly washed and towel-dried hair. This will make it easier to work with and prevent it from slipping around while you’re cutting.
Step 2: Split Your Hair into Sections
Divide your hair into four sections: two in front, and two in back. Secure each section with a hair clip or elastic.
Step 3: Determine the Base Layer Length
Decide how short you want your base layer to be. Remember that this will determine the overall length of your hair. For short layers, you’ll want to cut your base layer to around the chin or shoulder length.
To achieve the perfect base layer length, follow these tips:
| Hair Type | Ideal Base Layer Length |
|---|---|
| Fine Hair | Chin-length or slightly shorter |
| Medium Hair | Shoulder-length |
| Thick Hair | Mid-neck or slightly longer |
Once you’ve determined the length, take a comb and pull the hair in the back section down to the desired length. Hold it straight and parallel to your head to ensure an even cut.
Cutting the First Layer
Now that you have parted your hair, it’s time to cut the first layer. Here’s how:
- Determine your desired length: Decide how short you want the top layer to be. This will depend on your personal preference and the overall style you’re aiming for.
- Section off the top hair: Use clips or hair ties to separate the top section of hair that you will be cutting.
- Comb the hair straight: Brush the top section of hair straight down to remove any tangles.
- Hold the hair perpendicular to your head: This is crucial for creating even layers. Hold the section of hair perpendicular to your head, making sure the ends are at the desired length.
- Cut the hair straight across: Using sharp scissors, carefully cut the hair straight across, following the line you have established. Do not cut too much hair at once.
- Check the length: Once you have cut the first section, release the clip and comb your hair down. Check if the length is even and adjust as necessary.
| Tips for Cutting the First Layer: |
|---|
| – Use sharp scissors to ensure precise cuts. |
| – Hold the hair perpendicular to your head to create even layers. |
| – Cut the hair straight across, without any angling or layering. |
| – Check the length regularly to avoid cutting too much hair. |
Shortening and Shaping the Layers
Now that you have established a center point and used it to define the other layers, it’s time to shorten and shape those layers. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Gather your tools: You’ll need sharp hair cutting shears, a sectioning comb, and a spray bottle filled with water.
- Section your hair: Divide your hair into four quadrants: two on top and two on the bottom. Secure the quadrants you’re not working on with hair clips.
- Start with the bottom layer: Begin with the bottom back layer and comb it downwards, away from the head.
- Determine the desired length: Hold the scissors at a 45-degree angle and gently cut off the excess hair, working your way up from the nape of the neck to the crown.
- Shape the layers: Once you’ve established the basic length, refine the shape of the layers. Use the sectioning comb to separate individual strands and trim them at a slight angle, making them shorter near the face and longer towards the back.
- Repeat for other layers: Work your way up the layers, repeating steps 4 and 5 for each section.
| Layer | Angle of Cut |
|---|---|
| Bottom layer | 45 degrees |
| Mid-layer | 30 degrees |
| Top layer | 15 degrees |
Adding Texture and Movement
To add texture and movement to your short layers, consider these techniques:
1. Razoring
Using a razor blade, gently cut into the ends of your hair at an angle. This will create tiny, feathered tips that add volume and texture.
2. Point Cutting
Hold your scissors vertically and cut into the hair at a sharp angle. This creates jagged, uneven edges that give the illusion of more layers and texture.
3. Slicing
With your scissors open, slide them through the hair at an angle. This technique removes weight and creates a more airy, textured look.
4. Invisible Layers
Cut small, hidden layers into the hair beneath the top layer. This adds movement and volume without making the layers too obvious.
5. Texturizing Shears
Use texturizing shears with teeth to cut the hair. This creates jagged, uneven edges that add texture and volume.
6. Using Styling Tools
| Styling Tool | Effect |
|---|---|
| Blow Dryer | Adds volume and movement by lifting the roots. |
| Curling Iron | Creates curls or waves that add texture and movement. |
| Flat Iron | Straightens hair while adding a slight wave or texture to the ends. |
| Round Brush | Used with a blow dryer to create volume and shape the hair. |
Blending and Refining the Layers
7. Refining the Short Layers
Once the base layers are established, you can refine them for a more polished look. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Refining the Front Layers:
- Dampen the hair and divide the front section into two equal parts.
- Take a small section of hair from the outer edge of one side and comb it forward and up.
- With sharp scissors, trim the ends to create a short, layered effect.
- Repeat steps 2-3 on the other side.
Refining the Back Layers:
- Gather a section of hair from the nape and comb it straight down.
- Hold the scissors vertically and point cut into the hair, avoiding blunt cuts.
- Move upwards, layering and blending the hair as you go.
- Repeat steps 6-7 on the remaining back sections.
Tips for Refining the Layers:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use sharp scissors | Dull scissors will split the hair ends. |
| Point cut | This technique helps blend the layers seamlessly. |
| Don’t overcut | Start with conservative cuts and gradually trim more if needed. |
Styling the Short Layers
Once you’ve created your short layers, it’s time to style them to perfection. Here are a few tips:
1. Use a blow dryer to create volume
Start by blow-drying your hair upside down to create volume at the roots. Then, use a round brush to smooth out the layers and add shape.
2. Add some texture with a curling iron
If you want to add some texture to your short layers, use a curling iron to create loose waves or curls. Be sure to use a heat protectant spray to avoid damaging your hair.
3. Use a hairspray to hold everything in place
Once you’ve styled your hair, use a hairspray to hold everything in place. This will help to keep your layers looking their best all day long.
4. Experiment with different products
There are many different hair products available that can help you to style your short layers. Experiment with different products to find the ones that work best for your hair type and desired look.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
If you’re not sure how to style your short layers, don’t be afraid to ask your hairstylist for help. They can give you tips on how to create the look you want.
6. Be patient
It may take some time to find the perfect way to style your short layers. Be patient and experiment with different techniques until you find the one that you love.
7. Accessorize
Adding accessories to your hair can be a great way to update your look. Try adding a headband, hair clips, or a scarf to your short layers.
8. Have fun
The most important thing is to have fun and experiment with different styles. There are no rules when it comes to styling short layers, so find the look that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Cutting the Bottom Layer
Comb the section of hair downwards. Use the comb’s teeth as a guide to cut the hair straight across. Start at the back of the head and work your way forward. Hold the scissors parallel to the comb and cut the hair in small snips. Avoid cutting too much hair at once, as you can always take more off but not put it back on.
Cutting the Second Layer
Separate the second layer of hair from the first layer. Comb the second layer downwards and hold it taut. Use the comb’s teeth as a guide to cut the hair straight across. Start at the back of the head and work your way forward. Hold the scissors parallel to the comb and cut the hair in small snips. Cut the second layer slightly shorter than the first layer.
Cutting the Top Layer
Separate the top layer of hair from the second layer. Comb the top layer downwards and hold it taut. Use the comb’s teeth as a guide to cut the hair straight across. Start at the back of the head and work your way forward. Hold the scissors parallel to the comb and cut the hair in small snips. Cut the top layer slightly shorter than the second layer.
Maintaining and Restyling the Layers
Maintaining the Layers
To maintain your short layers, you will need to trim them every 4-6 weeks. You can trim the layers yourself or you can go to a salon. If you trim the layers yourself, be sure to use sharp scissors and to cut the hair in small snips.
Restyling the Layers
You can restyle your short layers in a variety of ways. One popular way to style short layers is to use a curling iron or wand to create loose curls. You can also use a flat iron to straighten the layers or to create waves. Another popular way to style short layers is to use a hair dryer and a round brush to create volume and movement.
Styling Tips
| Length | Ideal Styling Method |
|---|---|
| Very short | Spiky or textured |
| Short | Flipped out or curled |
| Medium-short | Soft layers or feathered |
| Long | Layering for shape and volume |
Troubleshooting and Tips
Too Short
If your hair is too short after cutting, there’s not much you can do to fix it. You may have to wait for it to grow out or get a professional haircut to correct it.
Uneven Layers
If your layers are uneven, you can try to even them out by cutting the longer layers shorter. Be careful not to over-cut, or you may end up with hair that is too short.
Blunt Layers
If your layers are too blunt, you can try to soften them by using a razor or thinning shears. This will help to create a more natural look.
Too Layered
If your hair has too many layers, it can look choppy and uneven. You can try to remove some of the layers by cutting them out or blending them together.
Not Layered Enough
If your hair doesn’t have enough layers, it can look flat and lifeless. You can add more layers by cutting them in or using a razor to thin out the hair.
Frizzy Layers
If your layers are frizzy, you can try to smooth them out by using a serum or hairspray. You can also try blow-drying your hair with a diffuser to help reduce frizz.
Thick Layers
If your layers are too thick, they can weigh your hair down and make it look flat. You can thin out the layers by using a razor or thinning shears.
Thin Layers
If your layers are too thin, they may not be visible. You can thicken the layers by cutting them in or using a volumizing product.
Dry Layers
If your layers are dry, you can try to moisturize them by using a conditioner or hair mask. You can also try using a serum or oil to help seal in moisture.
Oily Layers
If your layers are oily, you can try to control the oil by using a clarifying shampoo or dry shampoo. You can also try using a hairspray or mousse to help absorb oil.
| Good Scissors | Avoid using dull or rusty scissors, as they will not cut your hair smoothly. |
| Sharp Comb | Use a sharp comb to separate your hair and to create precise layers. |
| Sectioning Clips | Sectioning clips help to keep your hair organized and out of the way while you’re cutting. |
| Water Spray | A water spray bottle can be helpful for dampening your hair and making it easier to cut. |
| Towel | A towel can be used to blot your hair dry after washing it or to catch any hair clippings. |
How to Cut Your Own Hair: Short Layers
Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hair
Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. Towel dry your hair until it’s damp, but not soaking wet.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into three sections: the top, middle, and bottom layers. Tie off the top two layers with hair ties.
Step 3: Cut the Bottom Layer
Start by taking a small section of hair from the bottom layer. Hold it taut and cut it about an inch below your chin. Repeat this process for the rest of the bottom layer, keeping your cuts parallel to each other.
Step 4: Cut the Middle Layer
Untie the middle layer and hold it taut. Cut it slightly shorter than the bottom layer, about halfway between your chin and your shoulders.
Step 5: Cut the Top Layer
Untie the top layer and cut it about two inches shorter than the middle layer. This will create a graduation in length.
Step 6: Blend the Layers
Once you’ve cut all the layers, use a fine-tooth comb to blend them together. This will help to create a smooth, even look.
Step 7: Style
Style your hair as desired. You can blow it dry for a smooth, straight look, or use a curling iron to create waves or curls.
People Also Ask
How can I cut my hair short with layers if I don’t have a lot of hair?
If you don’t have a lot of hair, you can still cut it into short layers. Just be sure to take small sections of hair and cut them shorter than you would if you had more hair. This will help to create the illusion of volume.
How do I cut my hair into short layers for a choppy look?
To cut your hair into short layers for a choppy look, use a razor comb. This will help to create textured, uneven layers. Be sure to cut in the direction of hair growth, and avoid overcutting.
What are some tips for cutting short layers?
-
Use sharp scissors.
-
Cut your hair dry.
-
Cut small sections of hair at a time.
-
Keep your cuts parallel to each other.
-
Blend the layers together with a fine-tooth comb.
Use sharp scissors.
Cut your hair dry.
Cut small sections of hair at a time.
Keep your cuts parallel to each other.
Blend the layers together with a fine-tooth comb.
