Let’s talk about how to properly cut your hair at home. We’ve all been there- don’t try to deny it. Whether it’s because you want to save a quick buck by taking a trip to your nearest salon or you’re going through a phase, there are numerous reasons why you would want to snippy, snip, snip your locks. Although we can’t stop you, we can at least educate you to make sure it looks amazing. With that, here’s a complete guide on how to make sure your new haircut isn’t a glow down but a glow up.

If you’re thinking, “Oh, it can’t be THAT difficult,” trust us, there are many ways it can definitely go wrong. It’s not simply taking your kitchen scissors and going rogue on your mane. You have to remember; your hair is a part of your image and identity. You do not want to be the one stuck with uneven hair that not even Miss Gina Norris can save you.

However, if you follow Beauty Insider’s tips and tricks on how to cut your own hair; it should be easy peasy lemon squeezy!

What You Need

1. A visual idea of what you want

You can go crazy with your hair but we suggest you have a game plan if you’re thinking of cutting your hair. Have a scroll through Pinterest, Instagram or WeHeartIt to find inspiration. This way, you’ll have a rough idea on what you want and how to achieve it.

Say you see someone rocking curtain bangs; you’re able to go through tutorials specifically on how to cut curtain bangs. Simply to speak, having a general idea prior to acting out will make the whole ordeal more structured and organised.

2. Have the right tools on hand

You are absolutely not going to use kitchen or office scissors! The ideology may seem similar but you will achieve disastrous results. Those scissors are blunter and thicker which may do more harm than good. With this, we mean that they may contribute to split ends- yikes!

Therefore, you need to invest in good salon-grade styling shears that are razor-sharp. They will give you results that are precise and defined, delivering beautiful outcomes. Remember, always be safe around sharp objects and be aware of where you’re snipping.

Some other things that you might need are hair clips to separate sections and a comb to loosen knots and help to get a precise trim.

3. Evaluate your hair and plan where to start

You’ve got the idea of what you want and the tools are ready to be used- now what? Now, it’s time to properly plan and map out how to achieve your desired look with your current hair. Remember we all have different hair that ranges in type and texture. Have a sit down with your hair and evaluate your locks to determine the best way to move forward.

Once you’ve got all that covered, here comes the fun part- actually cutting your own hair!

How to Cut Straight Hair

There are many methods to cutting straight hair as it is essentially the easiest out of all hair types. However, most people with straight hair want a precise straight-cut look that is timeless and beautiful.

Dampening straight hair just a bit will help you have better control and precision when trimming. You want to run a comb through it and take two fingers at the length you want. You do NOT want to lift your hair but keep it straight down and cutting across. Take your time and snipping little by little will be better than going to town with a big ol’ chop.

How to Cut Curls

If you’ve got curly hair, organised and neat sectioning will come in super handy. Curly hair comes in different intensities where you might be at the lower end with type 2 or on the high-end with type 4 tight coils.

There are two methods you can do when you’re thinking to cut curly hair:

The first method is to start with damp hair and section it using hair clips. You’re going to take your comb and use it to guide you. When you near the ends, you want to lift out both ends to create a small C shape. This will not only create more definition but once dried, the top parts of the hair will move naturally higher.

The second method is quite simple and straightforward. This is for the curly hair gang that have type 3 to type 4 hair since they lift higher. To start, section your hair out and take a curled piece and cut it at an angle. When you cut straight, it will appear dull and off whereas angle trims create texture and definition.

How to Cut Bangs

Alas, we’ve reached that moment in our lives where we are thinking about getting bangs. There are multiple types of bangs from straight, curtains and even choppy is a cute trend many have jumped on. However, when it comes to trying to cut the hair, it’s a little daunting. You could either make it or break it.

We’re set to make sure your bangs come out looking amazing. The first thing you want to do is section out a triangle portion of your hair which is at the forefront of your hairline. This is the part of your hair that will be your bangs.

If it’s long, just cut it a little over your desired length so you have room for adjustments and corrections. Remember to use your comb for precision and snip upwards for a choppier look.

Conclusion

If you’re still hesitant to cut your own hair, check the video below of Professional Hairdresser, Brad Mondo, as he gives you an in-depth explanation about the do’s and don’t of cutting your own hair.