If you're looking to switch up your hairstyle without breaking the bank, cutting your own hair long to medium is a great option. With the right tools and technique, you can achieve a stylish and manageable haircut from the comfort of your own home. In this article, we'll guide you through the process step by step, share some tips and tricks, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Table of Contents
- How to Cut Your Own Hair Long to Medium
- Tools You'll Need
- Prepping Your Hair
- Sectioning Your Hair
- Cutting Your Hair
- Blending Your Layers
- Trimming Your Ends
- Cleaning Up Your Cut
- Tips and Tricks
- FAQs
- Hair Care After Cutting Your Hair
Tools You'll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools:
- Sharp scissors
- Comb
- Hair clips or ties
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Optional: Thinning shears or razor
It's important to use sharp scissors to avoid damaging your hair or creating uneven cuts. Thinning shears or a razor can also be useful for creating texture and removing bulk, but they are not necessary.
Prepping Your Hair
Start by washing and drying your hair thoroughly. Then, comb through any tangles or knots. It's best to cut your hair when it's dry, as wet hair can shrink and make your cut shorter than intended.
Next, spray your hair with water to dampen it slightly. This will make it easier to cut and prevent flyaways.
Sectioning Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections using hair clips or ties. Start by creating a part down the center of your head, then divide your hair into two sections. Clip one section out of the way while you work on the other.
Next, take a small section of hair from the front of the section you're working on and comb it straight down. This will be your guide for cutting the rest of your hair.
Cutting Your Hair
Hold your scissors at an angle and cut upwards into the hair, creating a soft V-shape. Take small sections of hair and repeat this process, using the first section as your guide. Be sure to cut slowly and carefully, checking your progress in a mirror as you go.
Repeat this process on the other side of your head, making sure to keep your sections even and matching the length on both sides.
Blending Your Layers
Once you've finished cutting your hair, remove the hair clips or ties and shake out your hair. Check for any uneven sections or choppy layers.
If necessary, use thinning shears or a razor to blend your layers and create texture. Be careful not to overdo it, as this can create too much volume or thin out your hair too much.
Trimming Your Ends
After blending your layers, it's time to trim your ends. Take small sections of hair and twist them tightly. Then, snip off the ends of any split or damaged hair.
Cleaning Up Your Cut
Once you've finished cutting and trimming your hair, it's time to clean up your cut. Comb through your hair and check for any stray hairs or uneven sections. Use your scissors to trim any areas that need it.
Tips and Tricks
- Take your time and cut slowly. It's better to cut a little at a time than to take off too much.
- Use your fingers to hold your hair in place while you cut, rather than pulling it tight with a comb.
- Check your progress in a mirror frequently to avoid any mistakes.
- When trimming your ends, always snip off small sections at a time.
- Be patient and don't get discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect.
FAQs
Can I cut my hair long to medium if I have curly hair?
Yes, you can! Follow the same steps as outlined above, but keep in mind that curly hair tends to shrink when it dries. Cut your hair a little longer than you want it to be to account for this.
Do I need to use thinning shears or a razor?
No, you don't need to use these tools. They can be useful for creating texture and removing bulk, but they are not necessary.
What if I make a mistake?
If you make a mistake, don't panic! You can always trim off a little more or take a break and come back to it later. If you're really unhappy with the result, you can always go to a professional stylist to have it fixed.
Hair Care After Cutting Your Hair
After cutting your hair, be sure to take care of it properly. Use a nourishing shampoo and conditioner, and avoid using heat tools or chemically processing your hair for a few weeks. Trim your hair regularly to maintain your cut and prevent split ends.
By following these steps and taking care of your hair properly, you can achieve a stylish and manageable long to medium haircut from the comfort of your own home. Happy cutting!