Let’s face it, we’ve all been there – staring at our overgrown hair in the mirror, wondering if we should take the plunge and finally book an appointment at the salon. But then, the thought of battling traffic, finding parking, and the inevitable price tag makes us second guess ourselves. “Maybe I can just do it myself at home?” we think.
And you know what? You totally can! Cutting your own shoulder-length hair at home can be a rewarding experience, saving you both time and money. But before you grab those shears, there are a few things you need to know to ensure a successful (and stylish) outcome.
The Essential Tools for a DIY Haircut
Before you start snipping, gather the essential tools you need for a successful DIY haircut:
1. A Sharp Pair of Hairdressing Scissors
Investing in a good pair of hairdressing scissors is crucial. These are designed to cut hair cleanly and precisely, unlike household scissors, which can leave blunt ends and uneven cuts. Trust me, your hair will thank you for it!
2. A Comb with Fine Teeth
A comb with fine teeth is essential for sectioning your hair and ensuring even distribution during the cutting process.
3. A Spray Bottle Filled with Water
Water helps to smooth down hair and makes it easier to cut. It’s also good for dampening the hair to prevent breakage.
4. A Mirror and a Hand Mirror
Two mirrors are essential – one for seeing the back of your head and the other to see the front. This helps you to ensure your hair is cut evenly on both sides.
5. Optional: A Hair Clipper
If you want to create a more defined look, you may want to consider using a hair clipper for trimming around your neckline.
Preparing for Your DIY Haircut
1. Start with Clean, Conditioned Hair
Before you even think about picking up those scissors, wash your hair with your usual shampoo and conditioner. This will ensure that your hair is clean and manageable.
2. Air Dry Your Hair
After washing, air-dry your hair until it’s about 70% dry. This will help to prevent breakage during the cutting process.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Your Own Shoulder-Length Hair
1. Section Your Hair
Start by dividing your hair into sections. This will ensure that you cut your hair evenly and don’t miss any parts. Use the comb to section your hair from ear to ear, then from the top of your head down to your nape.
2. Cutting the Back
Start by trimming the back of your hair. Remember, you can always trim more, but it’s difficult to add back what you’ve cut off.
3. Cutting the Sides
Next, you’ll want to work on the sides of your hair. Again, take small sections and trim them to your desired length.
4. Trimming Your Ends
Once you’ve trimmed the back and sides, focus on trimming the ends of your hair. You can use a technique called “point cutting” to create a more textured look.
5. Blending Your Layers
The key to a successful DIY haircut is to blend the layers. This means that you’ll need to go back and forth between the sections, ensuring that the lengths are even. Use the comb to check for any bumps or unevenness.
6. Don’t Forget to Trim Around Your Face
Once you’re happy with the overall length, use your scissors to trim around your face. This will help to create a clean and polished look.
Tips for Avoiding Common Mistakes
1. Don’t Cut Too Much at Once
Remember, you can always trim more, but you can’t put back what you’ve cut off. Start by trimming small sections and gradually work your way up to your desired length.
2. Avoid Cutting Hair That’s Too Wet
Cutting wet hair can make it difficult to assess the length and can lead to uneven cuts. Aim for damp hair, not soaking wet.
3. Take Breaks When You Need Them
Cutting your own hair can be a time-consuming process, and it’s easy to get frustrated if you’re not seeing the results you want. Take a break whenever you need one to rest your eyes and re-evaluate your work.
4. Always Cut Upward, Not Downward
This technique will prevent you from getting uneven ends.
5. Don’t Forget to Thin Out Your Hair
If you have thick hair, consider using thinning shears to reduce the bulk. This will help to create a more manageable and stylish look.
6. Remember to Clean Up Your Neckline
After you’ve finished cutting your hair, use a pair of clippers to trim around your neckline. This will create a neat and polished look.
Styling Your New Haircut
Once you’ve finished cutting your hair, it’s time to style it! You can use a variety of products, including hairspray, mousse, and gel, to create the look you desire.
Final Thoughts
Cutting your own shoulder-length hair at home can be a daunting task, but it’s totally doable with a little bit of patience and practice. By following these tips and practicing proper technique, you can achieve a professional-looking haircut without ever stepping foot in a salon.
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a perfect DIY haircut. Give yourself time to master the techniques and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works best for you.
Need Help with Your Haircut?
If you’re looking for some extra support, our team at TRAVELCAR is here to help. We offer a wide range of services, including:
- Airport Transfers: Our reliable drivers will take you to and from the airport without any hassle.
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