Cutting and thinning your hair at home can be a handy skill, whether you need a quick trim or want to remove extra bulk. While it may seem challenging, following a few simple steps can make it manageable and even fun! This guide provides a complete overview of cutting and thinning your hair at home for a neat and fresh look.

 

6 Steps to Cut Your Own Hair at Home

1. Essential Tools for Cutting and Thinning Hair

Before starting, make sure you have these basic tools:

  • Haircutting Scissors: Regular scissors are often too blunt and may damage hair, so use haircutting scissors if possible.
  • Thinning Shears (Optional): These specialized scissors have teeth that remove bulk from thick hair while keeping the length.
  • Comb and Sectioning Clips: These help keep your hair organized and even during the cut.
  • Mirror Setup: Use a large mirror or an extra handheld mirror for checking the back of your hair.
  • Spray Bottle (Optional): Lightly damp hair is easier to cut, so keep a spray bottle nearby to mist it if needed.

 

2. Preparation: Sectioning Your Hair

  • Start with Clean, Dry (or Lightly Damp) Hair: Washing your hair ensures that it’s free of oils or styling products, which can affect how it looks when cut.
  • Divide Hair into Sections: Part your hair down the middle, then divide each side into sections (e.g., top, sides, and back). Clip each section to keep them out of the way as you work.

 

3. Trimming the Length

  • Take One Section at a Time: Start with one section, holding the hair between your fingers.
  • Trim the Ends Carefully: Pull the hair straight down and snip a small amount from the ends. Start by cutting only a little—you can always go shorter but can’t add length back!
  • Use the Point-Cut Technique for Softer Edges: Holding the scissors vertically, gently cut into the ends in small, upward snips. This technique gives a softer, more natural finish.

 

4. How to Thin Your Hair

Thinning is helpful if you have thick or heavy hair and want to reduce bulk without changing length. Here’s how to do it:

  • Use Thinning Shears: These are scissors with a serrated edge that removes some hair but not all.
  • Thin in Small Sections: Take a small section of hair and run the thinning shears halfway down from the roots. Avoid the very top of the hair to prevent visible thinning.
  • Close and Slide: Close the shears, then gently pull them down through the hair. This removes extra bulk while keeping the length intact.
  • Work in Layers: Repeat this process with small sections throughout your hair, focusing on the areas where you feel the most bulk (e.g., the back or sides).

 

5. Cutting Bangs (Optional)

If you have bangs, here’s a quick method to trim them neatly:

  • Isolate the Bangs Section: Comb your bangs forward and clip the rest of your hair out of the way.
  • Use Vertical Snips for Control: Hold the hair in small sections, and use the point-cut technique to trim a little at a time. This will create a softer, feathered look.
  • Don’t Go Too Short: Cut small amounts and check the length frequently to avoid going too short.

 

6. Final Touches

  • Check for Balance and Evenness: Use a mirror to look at the back of your hair and adjust any uneven spots.
  • Smooth and Finish: Comb through your hair and see how it falls naturally. If you notice any bulky or uneven areas, use the thinning shears or scissors for final adjustments.

 

How To Get Started?

Cutting and thinning your own hair can be a great way to maintain your style at home, but if you want to learn professional techniques, we’ve got you covered! We also offer hands-on haircutting courses where you can gain expert skills and confidence. Contact us today to learn more and get started on your journey to becoming your own stylist!