Thinking about cutting your own hair into layers can feel a bit daunting. You might be picturing a style that adds movement and body, but you’re worried about creating a lopsided mess. The good news is that with the right approach and a lot of patience, you can achieve a beautiful, layered look from the comfort of your home. It’s all about working with small sections and trusting the process.
Gathering Your Haircutting Toolkit
Before you make the first cut, having the proper tools makes a world of difference. You’ll need a pair of sharp hairdressing scissors—using dull kitchen scissors can damage your hair. It’s also helpful to have a fine-tooth comb, several hair clips to section your hair, and two mirrors so you can see the back of your head. Working with damp, towel-dried hair is often easiest as it provides a more even texture to cut.
The Basic Technique for Creating Layers
One of the most reliable methods for self-layering is called “point cutting.” Start by parting your hair down the middle and dividing it into two sections, front and back, clipping the top section out of the way. Bring all the hair from the back section forward over your shoulders. Then, take a small, horizontal section of hair from the very bottom, comb it smooth, and hold it between your fingers at the length you want your shortest layer to be.
Instead of cutting straight across, point the tips of your scissors upward and make small, vertical snips into the ends of your hair. This technique creates a soft, blended effect instead of a harsh, blunt line. Continue working upward, using the previously cut section as a guide for the next one, always point cutting into the ends.
Checking Your Progress and Making Final Adjustments
Once you’ve worked through all your sections, let your hair dry completely. Layers can look very different when wet versus dry. Style your hair as you normally would, then assess the shape in your mirrors. Look for any spots that feel heavy or uneven. You can go back in and carefully snip into any areas that need more blending, but remember the golden rule: you can always cut more, but you can’t put hair back. It’s best to make small, conservative trims and reassess.
Cutting your own layers is a skill that improves with practice. Start with a small goal, like face-framing pieces, before attempting a full head of layers. Be gentle with yourself, take your time, and you might just find a new, rewarding way to care for your hair.