Before we dive into the main topic of learning how to cut your own hair at home, it’s crucial to recognize the value of seeing a professional hairstylist. They possess the necessary tools, skills, and expertise to achieve the desired outcome, including intricate styles, layers, and perfect bangs. However, life happens, and there may be situations where you can’t make it to a salon or you’re determined to learn how to cut your own hair. In that case, we’re here to guide you.
To provide you with the best advice, we have enlisted trusted hairstyling professionals. This guide is primarily for individuals with straight, wavy, and loosely curled hair types. If that description fits you, keep reading and consider bookmarking this page for future reference.
Now, let’s address an important question: Is a haircut really necessary at this time? While regular trims are essential, especially for those with color-treated or heat-damaged hair, it’s highly likely that you can wait and seek the expertise of a professional instead of attempting to cut your own hair. Typically, split ends become noticeable around three to four months after your last haircut, as explained by New York City-based hairstylist Erickson Arrunategui. So, if you’ve recently had a professional cut and your hair still feels healthy, it’s best to wait a little longer before trimming your ends.
Waiting for a professional appointment can save you from potential mishaps. Mastering the art of giving yourself a professional-level haircut takes time and practice. Arrunategui has spent a decade perfecting his techniques and developing his unique style, so it’s understandable that achieving the same level of expertise on your first, second, or even third attempt may not be feasible.
If you can hold off on cutting for now, consider investing in a reparative treatment. Arrunategui recommends reducing heat-styling and hair coloring frequency to prolong the time between haircuts. Additionally, incorporating nourishing products such as masks, leave-ins, and serums can help maintain hair health.
Two recommended products for repairing and hydrating hair are the Virtue Restorative Treatment Mask and the Philip B Rejuvenating Oil. The Virtue mask helps repair breakage and hydrate dry, weak hair. Apply a generous amount to wet hair, leave it on for a few minutes, and rinse well. The Philip B Rejuvenating Oil is ideal for conditioning brittle and dehydrated hair. Apply from roots to tips and leave it in for 45 minutes to two hours before rinsing.
For a quick yet efficient option, try the Unite Hair 7Seconds Mask. This mask strengthens hair between cuts with hydrating shea butter, reparative vegetable proteins, and strengthening castor oil. Apply for 10 minutes once a week.
In the event that you still choose to cut your own hair at home, follow these professional tips:
Step One: Ensure you have the right tools. Avoid using kitchen scissors from your junk drawer, as hairstylist Justine Marjan advises against it. These scissors aren’t sharp enough and can create crooked lines that are challenging to fix.