Luke Hersheson, Victoria Beckham’s go-to stylist and backstage hair pro, is here to assist if you are still hesitant about fully committing to a haircut. From what supplies to purchase to how to avoid an uneven bob, here are his dos and don’ts for trimming your locks.
Use an excellent mirror and professional-grade shears.
Make sure you use an excellent mirror and professional-grade shears designed for hair cutting rather than household scissors when cutting your locks, especially wet ones that stretch. Cutting hair wet may lead to uneven sections.
Start with a clean part.
To achieve salon-grade trim at home, start with a clean part. This will allow for an even, neat look without messy or uneven results.
Comb and secure your hair
Comb your hair back with a fine-tooth comb, then draw a line from immediately behind your left ear down towards the base of your neck, using hair ties or clips as needed to secure this section (this step is especially essential if you have shorter locks).
Pinch and create a guide cut.
Once you are ready to trim, use your free hand to pinch the bottom of the comb and shears to create a guide cut for yourself. Be sure that pinching is consistent to avoid an uneven cut.
Trim each section
Use shears to follow the guide cut you created and trim hair accordingly. Repeat the process for each section until all sections of your hair have been addressed; working in small areas at a time may help avoid taking too much off at one time and ending up with an abrupt and short look.
Invest in a good pair of shears.
hair shears can be expensive, so investing in quality scissors to keep your locks healthy is essential. Celebrity stylist Clayton Hawkins recommends investing in a pair of haircutting shears that cost under $10. Thinner shears can help remove excess weight, soften harsh lines, and blend between sections, but excessive use may result in the absence of shape in your locks.
Choose the right handle design.
There are four different handle designs for hair-cutting shears, which all relate to what feels most comfortable for you. Some individuals may have wrist injuries requiring specific handles, while others prefer one over another. Most shears include an adjustable screw set to find your ideal tension setting for cutting hair.
Ensure dry hair before cutting.
Before picking up the shears, ensure your locks are parched to avoid stretching that might result in shorter-than-intended cuts. Wet hair stretches and makes it harder for scissors to cut evenly.
Use a towel or tarp to catch drips.
Use a towel or tarp to catch any drips and make cleanup easier. Divide your hair into at least four sections with scrunchies or hair ties to maintain consistency if you overdo any one area of the trimming process.
Start with the bottom portion and be patient.
When you’re ready to trim, begin with the bottom portion. Work slowly and carefully while combing each small section using a wide-toothed comb; this can also help to remove your locks as needed. When finished with this section, move on to the next; once completed with that section, move onto the top layer until the desired length has been reached – always take off less than you anticipate; there is always the possibility of cutting more later! Be patient.
Trim regularly for healthy hair.
Trimming regularly not only creates that just-out-of-the-salon look, but it can also encourage healthy hair growth. Damaged locks tend to grow back faster, so keeping up with regular trimming could extend the length of your cut and help increase it further.
Maintain healthy hair
To maintain healthy hair, try to limit manipulation and over-styling, while when styling, use products such as protein treatments and deep conditioners to combat damage.
Follow a tutorial and be patient.
If you want to try DIY trimming at home, find a tutorial that most closely aligns with your hair type and length, be patient, and follow these simple tips – they should allow you to give yourself an excellent haircut without spending money at the salon! Good luck! -Luke Hersheson, Victoria Beckham’s go-to hair stylist and backstage pro.
