If you have short wavy hair, adding layers can give it more volume and texture. While you could go to a salon to get it done, why not try doing it yourself? Cutting your own hair can be intimidating, but with the right tools and technique, you can achieve a professional-looking layered cut at home.
Table of Contents
- Tools You Will Need
- Prepping Your Hair
- Sectioning Your Hair
- Cutting Your Hair
- Blending Your Layers
- Trimming Your Ends
- Styling Your New Look
- Tips for Success
- FAQs
- Hair Care After Your Cut
Tools You Will Need
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Sharp scissors
- Comb
- Clips or hair ties
- Mirror
It's also a good idea to have a spray bottle filled with water to mist your hair as you cut it.
Prepping Your Hair
Start with clean, dry hair. If your hair is wet, it will be harder to cut accurately. Comb through your hair to remove any tangles or knots.
Decide how short you want your hair to be and make a mental note of it. If you're not sure, start longer and work your way down. You can always cut more later.
Sectioning Your Hair
Using your comb, section your hair into two parts: top and bottom. Clip the top section up and out of the way.
Next, take a small section of hair from the bottom layer and comb it straight down. Hold the section between your fingers where you want to cut it. If you want longer layers, hold it closer to the ends. If you want shorter layers, hold it closer to your scalp.
Using your scissors, cut straight across the section of hair. Repeat this process, working your way around your head one section at a time.
Cutting Your Hair
Once you've cut all the sections of your bottom layer, unclip the top layer and let it down. Comb it straight down and use the same technique to cut the top layer to match the bottom layer.
When you're finished, the layers should blend smoothly together.
Blending Your Layers
If your layers don't blend together seamlessly, you can use your scissors to gently blend the ends. Take a small section of hair and hold it between your fingers. Cut into the ends with small, upward snips. This will help to soften any harsh lines and blend the layers together.
Trimming Your Ends
Once you're happy with your layers, you can trim the ends to give your hair a clean, polished look. Comb your hair straight down and trim any ends that stick out or look uneven.
Styling Your New Look
Now that you've given yourself a new haircut, it's time to style it! You can use a curling iron or straightener to add more texture, or simply let your natural waves do the talking.
Experiment with different products to see what works best for your hair type. A volumizing mousse can help to give your hair more body, while a texturizing spray can add definition to your waves.
Tips for Success
- Start with small snips and work your way up. It's easier to cut more hair than it is to put it back on!
- Don't be too hard on yourself if it's not perfect. Hair grows back!
- Invest in a pair of quality scissors. Dull scissors can damage your hair and make it harder to cut accurately.
- If you're nervous about cutting your hair, practice on a wig or mannequin head first.
FAQs
Q: Can I cut my hair when it's wet?
A: It's best to cut your hair when it's dry. Wet hair can be harder to cut accurately and may cause your layers to look uneven.
Q: How often should I cut my hair?
A: It depends on your hair type and how fast it grows. Generally, getting a trim every 6-8 weeks can help to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends.
Hair Care After Your Cut
Now that you've given yourself a new haircut, it's important to take care of your hair to keep it looking its best.
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
- Avoid using hot tools too often, as they can damage your hair.
- Get regular trims to keep your hair looking fresh.
With these tips and techniques, you can confidently cut your short wavy hair in layers yourself and achieve a stylish, textured look.
