Are you tired of spending a fortune on haircuts at the salon? Do you want to try cutting your own hair at home? If you're an African American female with relaxed hair, you may be hesitant to take on this task. However, with the right tools and technique, cutting your own hair can be a cost-effective and empowering experience. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to cut your own hair as an African American female with relaxed hair.
Table of Contents
- Tools You'll Need
- Preparing Your Hair
- Sectioning Your Hair
- Cutting Your Hair
- Finishing Touches
- Tips for Cutting Your Own Hair
- FAQs
- Hair Care After Cutting Your Own Hair
Tools You'll Need
Before you start cutting your hair, you'll need to gather the following tools:
- Sharp hair shears
- Clippers (optional)
- Comb
- Hair ties or clips
- Mirror
If you plan on using clippers, be sure to choose the appropriate guard size for your desired length.
Preparing Your Hair
Before you start cutting your hair, it's important to prepare it properly:
- Wash and condition your hair as you normally would.
- Blow dry your hair straight using a round brush.
- Straighten your hair using a flat iron.
Make sure your hair is completely dry and free of tangles before you start cutting.
Sectioning Your Hair
Divide your hair into four equal sections:
- Section 1: Front right
- Section 2: Front left
- Section 3: Back right
- Section 4: Back left
Use hair ties or clips to secure each section.
Cutting Your Hair
Start with one section at a time:
- Take a small section of hair from the bottom of the section.
- Hold the hair between your index and middle finger, and slide your fingers down to the desired length.
- Using the hair shears, make a small snip at the bottom of the hair.
- Continue taking small sections of hair and cutting to the desired length.
- If you're using clippers, use the appropriate guard size and start at the bottom of your hair, moving the clippers upward.
- Repeat this process for each section of hair.
Finishing Touches
Once you've cut all four sections, it's time to add some finishing touches:
- Check the length of your hair in the mirror to make sure it's even.
- Use the hair shears to make any necessary adjustments.
- Trim any stray hairs around your hairline.
Tips for Cutting Your Own Hair
Here are some additional tips to help you successfully cut your own hair:
- Start with small snips and work your way up to your desired length.
- Don't cut too much hair at once to avoid any mistakes.
- Use a mirror to check the back of your head.
- Take your time and be patient.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about cutting your own hair:
- How often should I cut my hair?
- It's recommended to cut your hair every 6-8 weeks to maintain healthy hair growth.
- Can I cut my hair if it's curly?
- Yes, but it's recommended to have your hair straightened before cutting to ensure evenness.
Hair Care After Cutting Your Own Hair
After cutting your own hair, it's important to take care of it properly:
- Moisturize your hair regularly to prevent damage and breakage.
- Avoid using heat styling tools too often.
- Protect your hair with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet while sleeping.
- Get regular trims to maintain healthy hair growth.
Cutting your own hair as an African American female with relaxed hair may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and technique, it can be a rewarding experience. Follow these steps and tips to achieve a salon-worthy haircut at home.