Layered short hair is a fashionable and versatile hairstyle that can add depth, volume, and a touch of individuality to your overall look. The idea of achieving this style through a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach might seem intimidating at first, but with the right knowledge, tools, and a dash of confidence, it is entirely possible. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the step-by-step process, necessary precautions, and various techniques involved in DIY-ing layered short hair.
The Alluring Appeal of Layered Short Hair
Layered short hair has become a popular choice among many due to its numerous benefits. It can frame the face in a flattering way, accentuating the cheekbones, jawline, and eyes. Layers also add movement and texture, making the hair look more dynamic and less flat. For those with fine hair, layers can create an illusion of thickness, while for thicker hair, they can help reduce bulk and make styling more manageable. Moreover, a DIY layered short hair can save you both time and money in the long run, allowing you to experiment and customize your look according to your preferences and the latest trends.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before embarking on your DIY hair-cutting journey, it is crucial to assemble the right tools and materials.
Sharp Hair Scissors: Invest in a high-quality pair of hair scissors. These are specifically designed to make clean, precise cuts without causing excessive damage to the hair. Using regular household scissors can lead to split ends and an uneven cut. Look for scissors with a sharp blade and a comfortable grip.
Comb: A fine-toothed comb is essential for sectioning the hair accurately. It helps to detangle the hair and ensures that each section is smooth and even before cutting. A wide-toothed comb can also be useful for combing through the hair after cutting to create a more natural look.
Spray Bottle: Fill a spray bottle with clean water. Dampening the hair makes it easier to cut and gives you a better sense of the length and shape you are creating. It also helps to keep the hair in place while you work.
Clips: Hair clips are used to separate the hair into different sections. This allows you to work on one section at a time and ensures that the hair stays out of the way while you cut. You will need several clips, preferably ones that hold the hair firmly without leaving marks.
Mirror: Have a large, well-lit mirror or a combination of mirrors set up so that you can see the front, back, and sides of your head clearly. A handheld mirror can be helpful for checking the back of your head in conjunction with a wall-mounted mirror.
Preparing Yourself and Your Space
Proper preparation is key to a successful DIY haircut.
Mental Preparation:
Understand that this is a process that requires patience and concentration. It may take some time to achieve the desired result, especially if you are new to cutting your own hair. Don’t rush and be prepared to make small adjustments along the way.
Physical Space:
Choose a well-lit area, preferably near a window during the day or with bright artificial lighting. Good lighting is essential for seeing the details of your hair and the cuts you make. Cover the floor or the area around you with a towel or an old sheet to catch any fallen hair. This will make cleanup much easier.
Analyzing Your Hair and Deciding on the Layer Style
Take a close look at your current hair length, texture, and face shape to determine the most suitable layer style.
Length Consideration:
If you have extremely short hair, starting with very short and subtle layers around the crown can add a bit of lift and texture.For example, cutting a layer that is just an inch or two above the shortest part of your hair can create a soft, graduated effect.
If your short hair is a bit longer, you can opt for more defined and longer layers. Layers that start around the chin and graduate downwards can give a softer, more flowing appearance. Consider how much length you are willing to sacrifice and how drastic you want the change to be.
Texture and Volume:
Fine hair benefits from shorter, more numerous layers. These layers can create the illusion of thickness by adding movement and making the hair appear less limp. For instance, cutting layers that are about half an inch apart can give a significant boost to fine hair.
Thick hair can handle longer and chunkier layers. This helps to reduce the overall bulk and allows the hair to fall more gracefully. You can create layers that are a couple of inches apart, starting from the mid-lengths of the hair.
Face Shape Compatibility:
Oval Face: Almost any layer style works well with an oval face. You can experiment with different lengths and angles to enhance your natural features.
Round Face: Layers that are longer around the face and shorter at the crown can help elongate the face and create a more slimming effect. Angled layers that start near the cheekbones and taper downwards can also be flattering.
Square Face: Soft, rounded layers can help to soften the angles of a square face. Layers that start around the jawline and curve inwards can give a more feminine look.
Heart Face: Layers that are shorter around the forehead and longer towards the chin can balance the width of the forehead and the narrowness of the chin.
The Step-by-Step Cutting Process
Now it’s time to get down to the actual cutting.
Sectioning the Hair:
Start by parting your hair down the middle. Use clips to separate the hair into four main sections: two on the sides and two at the back. This will make it easier to work on one section at a time and ensure an even cut.
Take a small subsection of hair from the front, about an inch wide, and comb it straight down. This will be your initial reference point.
Determining the First Layer Length:
Decide on the length of the first layer. If you want a more dramatic look, you can cut it shorter, perhaps a couple of inches above the chin. For a subtler effect, keep it closer to chin length. Hold the section of hair between your fingers and cut it straight across at the desired length. Make sure the cut is even and clean.
Cutting the Layers:
Release the next section of hair from the clip and bring it down over the first layer. Comb it straight and then cut it a bit longer than the first layer. This creates the graduated effect of the layers. As you cut, keep the scissors parallel to the floor to ensure an even cut.
Continue this process, working your way from the front to the back of the head. When you reach the sides, angle the cut slightly so that the layers blend well and frame the face. For example, cut the hair at a slight diagonal, starting from a shorter length near the ear and gradually getting longer as you move towards the back.
For the back of the head, use the mirror to check the symmetry and evenness of the layers. You may need to cut the hair in small sections and compare the lengths on both sides to ensure a balanced look.
Texturizing and Finishing Touches
After cutting the basic layers, you can add some texturizing and finishing touches to enhance the overall look.
Texturizing the Layers:
Use the tip of the scissors to make small, random cuts along the ends of the layers. This helps to create a more natural, lived-in look and reduces the bluntness of the cut. Be careful not to cut too much, as this can make the hair look frayed.
Another option is to use a razor comb. Gently run the razor comb through the layers, starting from the mid-lengths and working towards the ends. This can create a softer, more feathered effect.
However, be cautious when using a razor comb, as it can cause more damage to the hair if not used properly.
Styling the Layers:
Apply a small amount of styling product, such as a texturizing spray or a light-hold mousse. This will enhance the volume and definition of the layers. Spray the product evenly throughout the hair, focusing on the roots and the mid-lengths.
Use a hairdryer and a round brush to blow-dry the hair. Lift the roots with the brush as you dry to add more volume. You can also curl the ends slightly with the brush for a more polished look. For a more tousled, beachy look, scrunch the hair with your fingers while drying.
Post-Cut Care and Maintenance
After achieving your DIY layered short hair, it’s important to take proper care of it.
Regular Trims:
Even though you have cut your hair yourself, it’s still essential to get regular trims to maintain the shape and health of the layers. Aim to trim the ends every 4-6 weeks to prevent split ends and keep the layers looking fresh.
Proper Washing and Conditioning:
Use a shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type. Avoid over-washing, as this can strip the hair of its natural oils. If you have colored or chemically treated hair, use products specifically designed for such hair.
Heat Protection:
If you use heat styling tools like hairdryers, curling irons, or straighteners, always apply a heat protectant spray before styling. This will help to minimize the damage caused by the heat and keep your hair healthy.
Conclusion
DIY-ing your layered short hair can be a fun and empowering experience. It allows you to express your creativity and have full control over your hairstyle. While it may seem daunting at first, with careful planning, the right tools, and following the steps outlined above, you can achieve a stylish and professional-looking layered short hair at home. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make adjustments as you go along. With time and experience, you may even discover that you have a hidden talent for hairstyling. So, go ahead and give it a try, and enjoy the process of transforming your look with your very own DIY layered short hair.
Related Topics: