Layering Hair – Cut & Style Survival Guide for Stylists
Layered haircuts are dominating the trend charts, captivating both stylists and clients with their dynamic and voluminous appeal. This guide is dedicated to professional stylists looking to refine their layering techniques, offering insights from initial consultation to the final styling touches. Whether you’re dealing with a client ready to transition from one-length hair to a layered masterpiece or seeking to perfect the art of seamless layers, this guide has got you covered.
Mastering the Consultation
The journey to perfect layers begins with a thorough consultation. When a client expresses interest in layers for the first time, it’s crucial to set clear expectations. Show them the section of hair at the crown where you plan to start the layers, and the angle of cutting to reassure them about maintaining their length. For the hesitant client, a gentle nudge towards trust, perhaps suggesting a surprise reveal, can make the experience exciting.
Communicating the concept of removing weight to create movement is vital. Describe the process as crafting ‘effortless,’ ‘easy,’ and ‘manageable’ hair, emphasizing the difference it makes from the usual one-length style.
Crafting the Cut
Utilize Fundamental Layering for Trending Looks
Aiming for a shag silhouette à la Brigitte Bardot requires soft, diffused layers that offer an effortless look and a seamless grow-out phase. This style is less about reducing length and more about strategically removing interior weight. It’s an artistic endeavor—scan through the hair, identifying areas that need space and texture, and carve accordingly to enhance movement and volume.
Tips for Cutting Long Layers
Keep The Hair Saturated: Use a leave-in conditioner as a cutting aid to maintain moisture, detangle, and increase control throughout the haircut. Hydration is key in executing precise cuts.
Overdirect To The Center: For face-framing layers, overdirect the hair across the face’s center point. This technique allows you to beautifully frame the jawline while preserving length towards the perimeter and ensures evenness on both sides.
Slide Cutting: Avoid blunt cutting as it can lead to excessive length removal. Instead, opt for slide cutting for a clean, soft finish that connects layers seamlessly.
Dry-Cutting Layers: While many stylists are accustomed to wet cutting, dry cutting offers unparalleled precision. It allows you to see exactly how the hair falls and behaves, making it easier to add detailed touches, especially vital for clients with straight hair where imperfections are more noticeable.
Texturizing Heavy Ends: If the ends feel too heavy after layering, using a texturizing shear like the NOVA 13T can be a game-changer. This tool can remove a significant amount of weight, around 35-40%, making the layers blend effortlessly with the rest of the hair.
Pro Tip to Avoid Common Pitfalls
A common mistake when cutting layers is creating unwanted gaps or ‘holes’ between the sides and back of the hair, particularly around the ear area. To prevent this, ensure you’re dropping out the length before you start layering in these critical zones.
Layered haircuts offer a dynamic and versatile option for clients seeking a change. As stylists, our goal is to execute these cuts with precision and creativity, ensuring each client walks out feeling refreshed and confident. Remember, layering is not just about cutting hair; it’s about sculpting a look that complements the individual’s features and lifestyle. With these tips and techniques, you’re well-equipped to tackle any layering challenge that comes your way, creating beautiful, flowing styles that clients will love.
