How To Cut Your Own Bangs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cutting your own bangs might seem daunting, but with the right technique and tools, you can achieve a stylish fringe at home, saving money and a trip to the salon. This guide provides a step-by-step approach, ensuring you get the bangin' look you desire. Remember, practice makes perfect! If you're particularly nervous, consider practicing on a wig first.
Before You Begin: Gather Your Supplies
Before you grab those scissors, ensure you have everything you need. This will make the process smoother and less stressful. You'll need:
- Sharp Hair Cutting Scissors: These are crucial. Household scissors will create uneven, frayed ends. Invest in a pair specifically designed for hair cutting.
- Hair Clips: To section off your hair neatly.
- Fine-Toothed Comb: For precise sectioning and creating a straight, even line.
- Spray Bottle: Filled with water to dampen your hair for easier cutting.
- Mirror: Ideally, a large mirror and a smaller hand-held mirror for precise viewing of the back.
- Optional: Rat-tail Comb: For precise parting and creating a clean line.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Your Own Bangs
1. Determine Your Bang Shape: What type of bangs are you aiming for? Consider your face shape and hair texture. Popular choices include:
- Straight Across Bangs: Classic and blunt.
- Side-Swept Bangs: Softer and more versatile.
- Curtain Bangs: A trendy, face-framing style that parts in the middle.
2. Section Your Hair: Use the clips to section off the hair you intend to cut into bangs. This area should be roughly the width you want your bangs to be. Err on the side of caution – it's easier to cut more off than to put it back!
3. Dampen Your Hair: Lightly spray the sectioned hair with water. Wet hair is easier to manage and will help you get a more precise cut. Avoid soaking it completely.
4. Comb Your Bangs Straight: Use your fine-toothed comb to comb the hair section straight down, ensuring there are no knots or tangles. This is critical for an even cut.
5. The Initial Cut: Hold the hair section taut with your fingers, creating a straight line. Begin cutting small amounts of hair at a time, working slowly and carefully. Do not cut straight across horizontally. Instead, cut at a slight angle, to create a softer, less blunt look. Remember: It's always better to cut less initially. You can always remove more hair.
6. Check Your Progress: Step back from the mirror and assess the length and shape of your bangs. Use the smaller mirror to check the back for evenness.
7. Refine and Adjust: Continue cutting small amounts until you achieve your desired shape and length. Remember, it's easier to take more off than add it back, so proceed with caution.
8. Style Your Bangs: Once you're happy with the cut, style your bangs as usual. Use a hairdryer and a round brush for a smoother, more refined look.
Tips for Success
- Take your time: Rushing the process can lead to mistakes.
- Start small: It's always better to cut less than more.
- Use sharp scissors: Dull scissors can create uneven cuts and split ends.
- Work with damp hair: Wet hair is easier to control.
- Be patient: It takes practice to cut your own bangs perfectly.
Troubleshooting
Uneven Bangs: If your bangs are uneven, try dampening them again and carefully trimming the longer sections.
Too Short Bangs: If you've cut your bangs too short, try styling them differently to minimize the appearance. A good stylist can help you fix more severe errors.
By following these steps and remembering to be patient and precise, you’ll be well on your way to achieving perfectly cut bangs at home. Good luck and happy cutting!