Comb from the ends, and work your way up to the root to work out knots. This will prevent damage to the hair and will put less strain on the scalp. [2] X Research source You should always use a comb for detangling. Don’t use a brush.

Check behind the ears for snarled or stuck hair. All of the hair needs to be combed straight down for a proper cut. [4] X Research source

Pull up the back section of hair, and bring the ends through your forefinger and middle finger. You should have about 1/2 inch to two inches sticking out from your fingers. Cut straight across. For a softer look, you can trim up into the hair, holding the scissors at a 45 degree angle. [7] X Research source The amount of hair you cut depends on how far up the damage goes, but typically it will be about 1/2 inch to two inches. Start by cutting less, and then go back to cut more if desired. Have the person lean their head forward slightly when cutting the back to help you perform a more even trim. [8] X Research source

If you’re cutting their hair in front of a mirror, it’s easier to check the evenness by standing behind the person and looking at their reflection in the mirror.

Decide on the length you want your hair to be before it is pinned up. [12] X Research source

As you divide your sections, twist each 1 into a tiny bun. Then secure the bun with a duckbill hair clip until you’re ready to cut that section. Pin together the “top box” section. Use a comb to make a part on the top left and right side. Use the end of the eyebrows as a guide for how far over the part should be. Divide this section in half. One part will be from the crown of the head to the forehead, and the second part will be from the crown of the head and reach to the middle back section of your head. This hair will be combed forward and be section off in the front. The back of the hair from the middle down will not be layered. It can be left loose or pinned back. [14] X Research source Divide the right and left front sections. These sections will start at the temples and end at the ear. Start with the comb at the back of the head, and angle down towards the bottom of the ear. [15] X Research source

As you are cutting, you want to avoid bringing the scissors straight across the bottom. Instead, slightly pull the scissors away after each cut before cutting the next piece.

Cut a little longer than you want the layers to be to allow room for error. Keep in mind that hair shrinks when it dries. [18] X Research source Common layers are cut right below the earlobe, or just above the jawline to help frame the face. It’s a good idea to drop 1 section of hair down, and then cut it at the desired length of the layer. Then, you can pull that hair back up and use it as a guide for the rest of your hair.

If necessary, you can always trim some of the fallen hair to add to your layer.

Your bangs should not extend further than your brow line. Also, they’ll look best if they follow a triangle pattern with the top point being in the center of your hair about 3 inches (7. 6 cm) above the bottom of your hairline. A common problem when cutting bangs is cutting them too short. This is why bangs are best cut when hair is dry. [23] X Expert Source Jenny TranProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 31 August 2020. Cut the bangs longer than you ultimately want them. This way, you can figure out the shape you want, and go back to make adjustments.