Cutting the back of your hair can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not used to doing it yourself. However, with the right tools and a little bit of practice, you can easily achieve a professional-looking cut at home. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cut the back of your hair, as well as some tips and tricks to help you get the best results.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. These include a sharp pair of scissors, a comb, and a mirror. If you have long hair, you may also want to use a hair clip or ponytail holder to keep it out of the way. Once you have your supplies, you’re ready to start cutting.
Sectioning and Preparation
Preparation
Before you start cutting, it’s essential to have the right tools and prepare your hair properly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sharp hair scissors
- Comb
- Clipping medium (optional)
Begin by brushing your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots. Divide your hair into two equal sections (a middle part) and separate the top from the bottom using a clipping medium to keep it out of the way.
Securing the top layer of hair is crucial. Failure to do so could result in uneven cutting. Use alligator clips, hair ties, or bands to fasten the sections securely.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Duckbill clips | Hold small sections securely |
| Claw clips | Separate large sections quickly |
| Hair ties | Isolate specific areas for precision |
| Brush | Remove tangles and evenly distribute hair |
With proper preparation and the right tools at hand, you’re ready to embark on the journey of cutting the back of your hair.
Determining the Desired Length
Before picking up scissors, it’s crucial to envision the desired length and style you want to achieve. To determine the length accurately, measure the hair from the root to the tip and consider various factors:
- Hair Texture: Coarse or curly hair tends to shrink when cut, so it’s wise to trim a bit longer than the intended length.
- Facial Structure: The shape of your face can influence the most flattering hair length. Oval faces are versatile, while round faces may suit shorter layers, and long faces may benefit from longer lengths.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the desired length should match your personal taste and lifestyle. Consider the practicality of the length, such as maintenance and styling.
- Hair Growth Rate: If you’re looking for a dramatic change, account for your hair’s growth rate. Hair typically grows about half an inch per month, so if you want a significant trim, you may need to trim periodically.
| Hair Type | Suggested Length |
|---|---|
| Straight | Any length can flatter straight hair. |
| Wavy | Mid-length to long layers to enhance waves and prevent frizz. |
| Curly | Shorter layers to reduce weight and define curls. |
| Coily | Short to medium length to prevent tangles and promote healthy hair. |
Cutting Straight Across
Grab the hair you want to cut and pull it away from your head, holding it taut. Make sure to hold the hair at 45 degrees from your head and at the desired length. Use your fingers to create a straight line It is essential to cut with smooth, even strokes. Start cutting at the end of the hair and work your way up to the guide. Cut just under the guide to avoid cutting too much hair. Repeat this process until you have cut all the hair to the desired length.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Hold the hair you want to cut away from your head, holding it taut. |
| 2 | Make sure to hold the hair at 45 degrees from your head and at the desired length. |
| 3 | Use your fingers to create a straight line and cut just under the guide to avoid cutting too much hair. |
| 4 | Repeat this process until you have cut all the hair to the desired length. |
Layering and Blending
To create layers in your hair, start by cutting it into sections. You can use a comb to section off the top, middle, and bottom layers. You can then use a razor or scissors to cut the hair in each layer to your desired length.
You can also use blending shears to create a more seamless look. Blending shears have a curved blade that helps to create a soft, blended transition between the layers. To use blending shears, hold them at a 45-degree angle to the hair and gently cut through the layers.
Tips for Layering and Blending
- Start with small sections of hair and gradually increase the size as you become more comfortable.
- Use sharp scissors or a razor to avoid damaging the hair.
- Hold the scissors or razor at a 45-degree angle to the hair to create a soft, blended look.
- Use a comb to help you section off the hair and create even layers.
- For a more dramatic look, you can razor cut the hair.
Point Cutting for Texture
Point cutting is a technique used to create texture and movement in the hair. It involves holding the scissors vertically and cutting into the hair at an angle, creating small, pointed ends. This technique can be used to add volume, remove weight, or create a shaggy, textured look.
If your hair is very thick or dense, point cutting can be a good way to remove some weight and make it easier to style. It can also be used to create a more textured look, which can be especially flattering on short or medium-length hair.
Here are some tips for point cutting your hair:
- Start by sectioning your hair into small, manageable pieces.
- Hold the scissors vertically and cut into the hair at an angle, creating small, pointed ends.
- Be careful not to cut too much hair at once, as you can always go back and cut more if needed.
- Once you have cut all of the sections, blend the hair together using a razor or thinning shears.
- Style your hair as desired.
Point cutting can be a great way to add texture and movement to your hair. By following these tips, you can achieve a salon-quality haircut at home.
| Advantages of Point Cutting | Disadvantages of Point Cutting |
|---|---|
| Adds texture and movement to the hair | Can be time-consuming |
| Removes weight | Can be difficult to master |
| Creates a shaggy, textured look | Can damage the hair if not done properly |
Razor Cutting for Precision
Razor cutting is a technique that uses a straight razor to cut the hair, resulting in a precise and clean cut. Here’s a step-by-step guide to razor cutting the back of your hair:
Materials
- Straight razor
- Hair scissors
- Wide-toothed comb
- Mirror
- Towel or cape
Steps
- Prepare your hair: Towel-dry your hair to remove excess moisture and make it easier to manage. Comb your hair to remove any tangles or knots.
- Section your hair: Create a horizontal parting at the crown of your head. Clip or tie the top portion of your hair out of the way.
- Razor cut the back: Hold the razor parallel to the hair shaft and angle it slightly downward. Gently slide the razor along the hair, removing small sections at a time.
- Trim the ends: Once you’ve razor cut the back of your hair, use hair scissors to trim any uneven ends or split hairs.
- Check for evenness: Use a mirror to check the back of your hair for any uneven sections or lines. Trim as necessary to achieve an even cut.
- Refine the cut: For a more refined and polished look, consider using a combination of razor cutting and scissor cutting. Use the following techniques to achieve different effects:
| Technique | Effect |
|---|---|
| Razor over shear: Glide the razor over the tips of the hair that have been cut with scissors to remove any flyaways or split ends. | Smooth, glossy finish |
| Shear over razor: Use scissors to trim the hair that has been cut with a razor to create a more defined and textured look. | Edgy, layered style |
| Razor cut the outer layers: Razor cut the outer layers of your hair while leaving the inner layers longer to create a graduated effect. | Volumetric, layered style |
Using a Clipper for Evenness
Clippers are a great tool for achieving an even cut on the back of your hair. Here’s how to use them:
1. Choose the right clipper guard
The size of the clipper guard will determine the length of your cut. For a short cut, use a smaller guard, and for a longer cut, use a larger guard.
2. Position the clipper
Hold the clipper perpendicular to your scalp and start at the base of your neck. Move the clipper upwards in smooth, even strokes.
3. Overlap your strokes
As you move the clipper upwards, slightly overlap your strokes to ensure that you don’t miss any spots.
4. Blend the sides
Once you’ve cut the back of your hair, blend the sides into the back by using a smaller clipper guard or by freehanding it.
5. Check for evenness
Once you’re finished, check for evenness by running your fingers through your hair. If you find any uneven spots, go over them again with the clipper.
6. Clean up the neckline
Use a small clipper guard or a razor to clean up the neckline. This will give your cut a professional look.
7. Fine-tune the cut
If you want to fine-tune your cut, use scissors to trim any uneven hairs. You can also use a thinning shear to remove bulk from your hair and create a more natural look.
| Clipper Guard Size | Cut Length |
|---|---|
| #1 | 1/16 inch |
| #2 | 1/8 inch |
| #3 | 3/16 inch |
| #4 | 1/4 inch |
Shaving or Trimming the Neckline
Cleaning up the neckline is essential for a polished look. You can either shave or trim the neckline, depending on your preference.
Shaving
For a clean-shaven neckline, start by applying shaving cream or gel to the area. Use a sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth. Be careful not to cut yourself.
Trimming
To trim the neckline, use a clipper or trimmer with a small guard size. Trim the hair in the direction of growth, and be sure to blend the trimmed area into the rest of your hair.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to trimming the neckline:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gather your tools: a clipper or trimmer with a small guard size, a comb, and a mirror. |
| 2 | Comb your hair in the direction of growth to determine the natural hairline at the neckline. |
| 3 | Attach the small guard size to the clipper or trimmer. |
| 4 | Hold the clipper or trimmer against the neck, with the teeth of the guard facing the direction of hair growth. |
| 5 | Trim the hair along the hairline, being careful not to trim too far into the hair. |
| 6 | Once you’ve trimmed the entire neckline, use the comb to check for any uneven areas or stray hairs. |
| 7 | If necessary, re-trim any areas that need it. |
Finishing Touches and Styling
Touch-Up the Back
Once you’ve cut the bulk of your hair, take a closer look and touch up any uneven areas. Use your scissors to gently trim any stray hairs and refine the shape of the back. Be cautious not to overuse your scissors, as removing too much hair might result in an uneven cut.
Use a Comb and Clippers
For a more polished finish, use a wide-toothed comb to detangle and smooth your hair. Then, use clippers with a longer guard size (e.g., 4 or 6) to lightly trim the ends of your hair and remove any wispy ends. This will create a clean and professional-looking cut.
Shape the Sides and Back
If desired, use clippers with a shorter guard size (e.g., 2 or 3) to taper or fade the sides and back of your hair. Hold the clippers against the hair and move them in small, even strokes. Be careful not to cut too much at once, as this could result in a buzzed appearance.
Check the Symmetry
Once you’ve finished cutting and styling, stand in front of a mirror and check the symmetry of your hair. Ensure that both sides are even and that the back looks balanced. If necessary, make minor adjustments using your scissors or clippers.
Styling Options
Once your hair is cut, you can style it as desired. Here are a few styling suggestions:
| Style | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Slicked Back | Apply a pomade or gel to wet hair and comb it back into place. |
| Side Swept | Apply a volumizing mousse and blow dry your hair, styling it towards one side. |
| Layered | Create layers in your hair by cutting different lengths into the top, middle, and bottom layers. |
Safety Precautions
Always use sharp scissors to prevent tearing your hair. Hold the scissors parallel to the floor, not perpendicular, to avoid cutting too much hair.
Be careful not to cut your scalp. Take your time and focus on what you’re doing.
If you have long hair, tie it back into a ponytail or bun to keep it out of the way.
Maintenance
Once you’ve cut your hair, it’s important to keep it trimmed to maintain the shape and length you want. You should also brush your hair regularly to remove tangles and keep it healthy.
If you’re not comfortable cutting your own hair, you can always go to a professional stylist. They can help you achieve the look you want and ensure that your hair is cut safely and evenly.
Tips for Maintaining the Back of Your Hair
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Regularly trim the back of your hair. | This will help to maintain the shape and length you want. |
| Brush your hair regularly. | This will help to remove tangles and keep your hair healthy. |
| Use a heat protectant spray when using heat styling tools. | This will help to prevent damage to your hair. |
| Get regular haircuts. | This will help to ensure that your hair is healthy and stylish. |
| Use a leave-in conditioner. | This will help to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. |
How To Cut The Back Of My Hair
Cutting the back of your hair can be a tricky task, but with a little practice, you can get great results. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Wash and dry your hair completely. This will help to prevent your hair from slipping and sliding around as you cut it.
2. Tie your hair up into a ponytail at the top of your head. This will help to keep the hair out of your way as you cut the back.
3. Use a sharp pair of scissors and cut small sections of hair at a time. This will help you to avoid cutting too much hair off.
4. Be patient and take your time. It is better to cut a little bit off at a time than to cut too much off and have to start over.
People Also Ask
How do I cut the back of my hair if it’s long?
If your hair is long, you may need to have someone help you cut the back. To do this, have your helper sit behind you and hold your hair up out of the way. You can then cut small sections of hair at a time, working from the bottom up.
What is the best way to cut the back of my hair myself?
The best way to cut the back of your hair yourself is to use a mirror to see what you are doing. You can also use a pair of scissors with a built-in mirror. This will help you to see the back of your head and make sure that you are cutting the hair evenly.
How do I cut the back of my layered hair?
To cut the back of your layered hair, start by cutting the bottom layer. Cut the hair in a straight line, working from the center of your head to the sides. Once you have cut the bottom layer, you can cut the remaining layers, working from the bottom up. Be sure to cut each layer slightly shorter than the layer below it.
