5 Steps To Cut Medium Length Hair

How To Cut Medium Length Hair
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Cutting medium-length hair can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and a little bit of practice, you can easily achieve the perfect cut at home. Whether you’re looking for a simple trim or a more dramatic change, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know to cut medium-length hair like a pro.

To get started, you’ll need a few basic tools. These include a sharp pair of hair shears, a comb, and a spray bottle filled with water. You may also want to use a hair straightener or curling iron to style your hair after you’ve cut it. Once you have all of your tools, you can begin the cutting process. Start by combing your hair to remove any tangles. Then, wet your hair with the spray bottle. This will help to keep your hair from moving around too much as you cut it.

Next, decide how much hair you want to cut. If you’re just looking for a trim, you’ll only need to cut off a few inches. If you’re looking for a more dramatic change, you can cut off more hair. Once you’ve decided how much hair you want to cut, section your hair into two or three sections. This will make it easier to cut your hair evenly. Start by cutting the bottom section of hair. Hold the shears parallel to the floor and cut the hair in a straight line. Be sure to cut the hair at the same length all the way across. Once you’ve cut the bottom section, you can move on to the next section. Repeat the same steps until you’ve cut all of your hair.

Determining the Desired Style

Before wielding scissors at your precious tresses, it’s paramount to define your vision for the perfect medium-length cut. This crucial step involves considering your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle.

**Face Shape:**

Determine your face shape by tracing the outline of your face with a mirror. Common face shapes include oval, square, round, and heart-shaped. Each shape flatters different hair lengths and styles.

**Hair Texture:**

Take into account your hair’s natural texture. Fine hair requires layers for volume, while thick hair may benefit from blunt cuts or texturizing techniques. Consider your hair’s tendency to curl or frizz when selecting a style.

**Lifestyle:**

Your lifestyle should influence your hair decision. If you lead an active lifestyle, an easy-to-style cut is ideal. If you have frequent formal events, consider a more sophisticated style that requires more upkeep.

**Inspiration Gathering:**

Gather inspiration from online forums, magazines, or even celebrities. Note the length, shape, and overall style that appeals to you. This will provide a visual reference for your stylist.

Once you have a clear understanding of your desired style, consult with a professional hair stylist for personalized guidance and to execute the cut with precision.

Preparing Your Hair for the Cut

Before beginning the haircut, it is crucial to prepare your hair to ensure a smooth and precise cut. Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepping your hair:

Step 1: Wash and Condition Your Hair

Begin by thoroughly washing your hair with a gentle shampoo. Use lukewarm water and avoid over-washing. Follow up with a conditioner to hydrate and detangle your hair, making it more manageable for cutting.

Step 2: Brush and Comb

Once your hair is towel-dried, use a wide-toothed comb to gently remove any tangles. This will help prevent breakage during the haircut.

Step 3: Dry Your Hair to Desired Dampness

Depending on your hair type and the desired cut, you may choose to cut your hair when it is either wet or dry.

Hair Type	Drying Method
Fine Hair	Cut dry to avoid unnecessary weight
Medium Hair	Cut slightly damp to prevent slipping and enhance precision
Thick Hair	Cut wet to reduce volume and make the hair more workable

Sectioning the Hair Appropriately

Proper sectioning is crucial for achieving a precise and even cut. Here’s a detailed guide to sectioning medium-length hair:

Vertical Parts

Part the Hair in Half: Create a vertical part down the center of the head, from the forehead to the nape.
Next Vertical Part: Divide each side of the center part into two more vertical sections, creating four quadrants.
Forensic Parting: Use a fine-toothed comb to tease a section of hair behind the ear, creating a "forensic part." This will help separate the hair while cutting and prevent unevenness.

Horizontal Parts

Four Horizontal Parts: Divide the hair into four horizontal sections: the crown, mid-section, lower section, and nape area.
Create Layers: If you’re aiming for layers, further divide the hair vertically within each horizontal section.

Table: Sectioning Guide for Medium-Length Hair

Section	Divisions
Vertical	Center part, 2 side parts, 2 forensic parts
Horizontal	Crown, mid-section, lower section, nape area

Understanding Layering Techniques

1. Determine Your Face Shape

Identify your face shape (oval, round, square, or heart) to choose layers that flatter your features.

2. Consider Your Hair Texture and Density

Layers work best on thicker hair. If you have fine hair, avoid numerous layers as they can thin out your hair.

3. Decide on the Type of Layers

Graduated Layers: Short layers at the crown gradually lengthen towards the ends.
Choppy Layers: Uneven, textured layers that create volume and movement.
Long Layers: Lengthy layers that blend seamlessly to create a subtle frame around the face.

4. Choosing the Right Layering Tool

Straight Razor:

Precision cuts create sharp, defined layers.
Requires skill and experience to avoid mistakes.
Table:
| Razor Type | Pros | Cons |
|—|—|—|
| Straight Razor | Precision, sharp layers | Requires skill, can damage hair if misused |
| Electric Razor | Less precise, safe for home use | Layers may be less defined |
| Texturizing Scissors | Adds texture and movement | Can create uneven or bulky layers |

Electric Razor:

Safe for home use with built-in guards.
Less precise than a straight razor, may create rounder layers.

Texturizing Scissors:

Creates textured, wispy layers to add volume and movement.
Can create uneven or bulky layers if not used correctly.

Cutting the Basic Shape

Once you’ve brushed your hair and determined the length you want to cut it, it’s time to start cutting. Here are the steps for cutting the basic shape:

1. Part Your Hair

Part your hair down the middle and then part it again horizontally at the crown of your head, creating a top section and a bottom section.

2. Cut the Back Section First

Start with the bottom section and comb it through to remove any tangles. Hold the hair taut and cut it to the desired length. This will be the base length that you will use for the rest of the hair.

3. Cut the Side Sections

Comb the side sections of hair and hold them taut. Cut the hair to the same length as the back section, blending it in as you go.

4. Cut the Top Section

Comb the top section of hair and hold it taut. Cut the hair to the same length as the back and side sections, blending it in as you go.

5. Check the Length and Layers

Once you’ve cut the basic shape, check the length and layers. Use a mirror to look at the back, sides, and top of your hair. If you need to adjust the length or add some layers, use thinning shears or a razor to create a more graduated cut.

Layer	Length
Top Layer	Longest
Mid Layer	Medium
Bottom Layer	Shortest

Blending the Layers

Once the layers are cut, it’s time to blend them together to create a smooth and natural look. Follow these steps:

Section 1: Creating a V-Shape

Hold a section of hair at the crown of your head and cut a V-shape into the ends. This will remove any blunt edges and make the layers flow more seamlessly.

Angle:	45 degrees
Amount Cut:	About 1 inch

Section 2: Holding Sections Vertically

Take vertical sections of hair and hold them straight out from your head. Cut the ends of each section at a slight angle, following the natural curve of the hair.

Angle:	30-45 degrees
Amount Cut:	Small, gradual cuts

Section 3: Point Cutting

For a softer, more subtle blend, use point cutting. Hold the scissors at a 90-degree angle to the hair and snip into the ends at random intervals. This will create small, uneven cuts that help to diffuse the layers.

Angle:	90 degrees
Amount Cut:	Light, scattered snips

Adding Texture and Movement

Adding texture and movement to medium-length hair is a great way to create a more dynamic and stylish look. Here are a few techniques you can use to achieve this effect:

1. Layers

Layers are one of the most effective ways to add texture and movement to hair. By cutting in shorter layers around the face and longer layers at the back, you can create a look that is both flattering and easy to style.

2. Graduated Bob

A graduated bob is a variation on the classic bob that features shorter layers in the front and longer layers in the back. This creates a more dramatic and angular look that is perfect for adding texture and movement to hair.

3. Razor Cut

A razor cut is a technique that uses a razor to create wispy, textured ends. This can add movement and volume to hair, making it a good choice for creating a more casual and undone look.

4. Bangs

Bangs can also be used to add texture and movement to hair. By cutting in bangs that are shorter in the middle and longer on the sides, you can create a look that is both stylish and flattering.

5. Texturizing Spray

Texturizing spray is a product that can be used to add texture and movement to hair without the need for cutting. Simply spray the product into your hair and tousle it with your fingers to create a more lived-in look.

6. Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo can also be used to add texture and movement to hair. By spraying dry shampoo into your hair and then brushing it out, you can absorb excess oil and create a more voluminous and textured look.

7. Styling Techniques

In addition to cutting techniques, there are also a number of styling techniques that you can use to add texture and movement to hair. Here are a few ideas:

Blow dry your hair upside down to create volume at the roots.
Use a curling iron or wand to create loose curls or waves.
Braid your hair overnight to create soft, beachy waves.
Tousle your hair with your fingers to create a more relaxed and undone look.

Technique	Benefits
Layers	Creates volume and movement.
Graduated Bob	Adds drama and texture.
Razor Cut	Creates wispy, textured ends.
Bangs	Adds texture and movement to the face.
Texturizing Spray	Adds texture and movement without cutting.
Dry Shampoo	Absorbs oil and creates volume.
Styling Techniques	Can be used to create a variety of looks.

Creating a Graduated Bob

To achieve a graduated bob, follow these detailed steps:

8. Create the Graduated Layers

Use your fingers or a comb to part the hair into small horizontal sections, approximately 1-2 cm apart. Starting at the back, take the first section and pull it out perpendicular to the head. Use the guide length as a reference and cut the hair straight across at a diagonal angle, with the scissors pointing slightly downwards towards the front of the head. Repeat this process for each section, working forward towards the crown.

Gradually shorten the diagonal angle as you move forward so that the hair becomes shorter towards the front. For a more dramatic graduation, use a larger diagonal angle. For a softer graduation, use a smaller angle.

As you reach the side and front sections, be sure to cut the hair at an angle that follows the natural curve of the head. This will help to create a soft and flattering frame for the face.

Length	Angle
Back	45-60 degrees
Sides	30-45 degrees
Front	15-30 degrees

Trimming the Fringe

Cutting your fringe can be a daunting task, but it’s actually quite easy with the right tools and technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to trim your fringe yourself at home:

You will need:

Sharp scissors
Comb
Sectioning clip
Mirror

1. Prepare your hair

Before you start cutting, comb your hair to remove any tangles. Then, use the sectioning clip to divide your fringe from the rest of your hair.

2. Determine the desired length

Decide how short you want your fringe to be. You can use a ruler or tape measure to help you decide.

3. Section your fringe

Divide your fringe into smaller sections. This will make it easier to cut and will help you achieve an even trim.

4. Cut the fringe

Hold the scissors at a slight angle and cut the hair in small, even strokes. Be careful not to over-cut.

5. Check the length

Once you’ve cut the fringe to the desired length, check it in the mirror to make sure you’re happy with it.

6. Blend the fringe

Use a razor comb to blend the fringe with the rest of your hair. This will help to create a more natural look.

7. Style your fringe

Once you’ve cut and blended your fringe, style it as desired. You can use a blow dryer, curling iron, or flat iron to create the look you want.

8. Touch up as needed

As your hair grows, you may need to trim your fringe again. Simply follow the steps above to touch it up.

9. Tips for cutting fringe

Here are a few additional tips for cutting fringe:

Tip	Description
Use sharp scissors	This will help you to get a clean cut.
Cut at a slight angle	This will help to create a more natural look.
Cut in small, even strokes	This will help to prevent over-cutting.
Check the length as you go	This will help you to avoid cutting too much hair.
Blend the fringe with the rest of your hair	This will help to create a more polished look.

Finishing Touches

10. Dry and style: Once the hair is cut, dry it completely and style it as desired. Use a blow dryer and brush to create volume and shape, or use a curling iron or flat iron to add curls or waves.

11. Trim split ends: Every 6-8 weeks, trim the ends of the hair to remove split ends. This will help keep the hair healthy and looking its best.

12. Use heat protectant: When using heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray to the hair first. This will help protect the hair from damage.

Styling

13. Layers: Layers can add volume and movement to medium-length hair. Ask your stylist to add layers that suit your face shape and hair texture.

14. Texture: Adding texture to the hair can create a more interesting look. Use a texturizing spray or cream to create waves or curls, or use a dry shampoo to create volume.

15. Accessories: Hair accessories can add a fun and stylish touch to any hairstyle. Try using headbands, clips, or hair pins to embellish your hair.

Tool	Creates
Blow dryer and brush	Volume, shape
Curling iron	Curls
Flat iron	Waves
Texturizing spray or cream	Waves, curls
Dry shampoo	Volume

How to Cut Medium Length Hair

Cutting medium length hair can be a great way to change your look without going too short. It’s also a relatively easy style to maintain, so it’s a great option for busy people. If you’re thinking about cutting your hair to a medium length, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Consider your face shape. Not all medium-length hairstyles will flatter all face shapes. If you have a round face, you’ll want to choose a style that adds length and angles to your face. If you have an oval face, you’re lucky – almost any medium-length style will look good on you.
Think about your hair type. If you have fine hair, you’ll want to choose a style that adds volume. If you have thick hair, you’ll want to choose a style that is easy to manage.
Do your research. There are tons of different medium-length hairstyles out there, so it’s important to do your research and find one that you love. Look through magazines, browse online, and talk to your friends to get ideas.
Go to a professional. If you’re not confident in your ability to cut your own hair, it’s best to go to a professional. A professional will be able to help you choose a style that flatters you and your hair type, and they will be able to cut your hair evenly and precisely.