Have you ever looked at a fresh salon haircut and wished you could create that beautiful, textured, layered look at home? The good news is that with the right approach, you can. Layering your own hair might seem a little scary, but it’s a skill you can learn to add volume, movement, and a personal touch to your style.
Before you pick up the scissors, it’s important to know that a little preparation goes a long way. This is about enhancing your natural hair, not completely changing it. With a gentle hand and some patience, you can achieve a result you’ll feel great about.
Getting Your Hair and Tools Ready
Always start with hair that is clean, dry, and styled as you normally wear it. This gives you the most accurate view of its natural fall and length. You’ll need a pair of sharp hairdressing scissors—never use craft or kitchen scissors, as they will damage your hair. You’ll also want a fine-tooth comb, several sectioning clips, and two mirrors so you can see the back of your head.
A Simple Method for Creating Soft Layers
One of the safest ways to begin is by using a ponytail technique. Gather all of your hair into a high ponytail on the very top of your head. For more layers, place the ponytail further forward toward your forehead. Carefully slide the hair tie to the ends of your hair, so you’re holding the very tips. Then, simply trim the desired amount off the ends. When you let your hair down, you’ll see the layers fall naturally around your face.
Tips for Texturizing and Blending
If you want to soften your layers and add more texture, you can use a technique called point cutting. Instead of cutting straight across a section of hair, hold your scissors vertically and make small, upward snips into the ends of your hair. This helps to blend any harsh lines and creates a softer, more feathered effect that looks very natural.
Taking Your Time for the Best Result
The golden rule of cutting your own hair is to go slowly. You can always cut more hair off, but you can’t put it back on. Start by taking off a very small amount. Let your hair down, shake it out, and check the length and balance. It’s much better to make several small, careful trims than one big cut you might regret.
Layering your own hair is a journey of getting to know your hair’s unique texture and behavior. By starting with a gentle technique and making small adjustments, you can build your confidence and create a layered look that gives your hair beautiful body and movement right at home.