Side swept bangs can add a touch of elegance and versatility to long hair, framing the face and creating a flattering look. If you’re looking to change up your hairstyle and add a stylish element to your long locks, cutting side swept bangs is a great option. While it may seem daunting to cut your own bangs, with the right technique and guidance, you can achieve salon-worthy results at home. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of cutting side swept bangs on long hair. From sectioning your hair to perfecting the length, we’ve got you covered.
Preparing Your Hair
- Cleanse and Condition: Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products suitable for your hair type. This will ensure that your hair is clean, free from any styling products, and easy to work with.
- Dry Your Hair: It’s important to cut your bangs when your hair is dry. Use a blow dryer or let your hair air dry completely before proceeding to the cutting process. This will allow you to see the natural fall and texture of your hair.
Sectioning Your Hair
- Identify the Bangs Area: Determine where you want your side swept bangs to start. Generally, side swept bangs start at the outer corner of one eye and angle down towards the opposite side of the forehead.
- Divide the Bangs Section: Gently comb your hair forward and separate the bangs section from the rest of your hair. Use a comb to create a triangular or rectangular-shaped section, depending on the width and style of the bangs you desire.
- Clip the Remaining Hair: To keep the rest of your hair out of the way, clip it back or secure it with a hair tie. This will ensure that you have a clear view and easy access to the bangs section while cutting.
Determining the Length
- Start Longer: It’s always better to start with a longer length and gradually trim if needed. Cutting your bangs too short initially can be difficult to fix, so err on the side of caution.
- Use Guide Points: Determine the desired length of your side swept bangs. One technique is to use guide points to establish the length. Imagine a line from the outer corner of your eye towards your desired endpoint for the bangs. This line will guide you when cutting the bangs.
- Take Small Sections: Work with small sections of hair at a time to ensure precision. It’s better to cut a little at a time and reassess rather than making a drastic cut all at once.
Cutting the Bangs
- Hold the Hair Taut: Take the first small section of hair between your fingers and hold it taut. This will help you achieve a clean and straight cut.
- Start with the Outer Section: Begin cutting the outer section of the bangs first. Hold the scissors vertically and make small, careful cuts. Follow the guide points established earlier to maintain the desired length and angle.
- Feathering Technique: To create a softer and more natural look, use a feathering technique. Hold the scissors at a slight angle and make small, quick cuts into the ends of the hair. This will create a soft, feathered effect and prevent any harsh blunt lines.
- Check for Balance: Regularly step back and check for balance and symmetry. Ensure that both sides of your bangs are even and that they flow naturally from one side to the other.
Styling and Finishing
- Dry and Style: Once you’ve finished cutting your side swept bangs, dry them using a blow dryer or let them air dry. Use a round brush or a flat iron to style them, sweeping them to the desired side and adding volume or smoothness as desired.
- Trimming Maintenance: To keep your side swept bangs looking fresh and well-maintained, schedule regular trims every 3 to 4 weeks. This will help prevent them from growing too long and ensure that they maintain their desired shape and style.
- Experiment with Styling: Side swept bangs offer versatility in styling. Play around with different hairstyles and techniques to find the look that suits you best. You can sweep them to the side, pin them back, or even create a small pouf for added volume.
Conclusion
Cutting side swept bangs on long hair is a transformative and stylish choice that can enhance your overall look. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can confidently cut your own side swept bangs at home. Remember to prepare your hair properly, section it carefully, determine the length gradually, and cut with precision. With regular maintenance and styling, your side swept bangs will beautifully frame your face and add a touch of sophistication to your long locks. So grab your scissors, embrace your creativity, and enjoy the chic transformation of cutting side swept bangs on your long hair.