Cutting Hair with Clippers: A Step-By-Step Guide

With the current global pandemic forcing many people to stay at home and prioritize their health and safety, going to a hair salon for a fresh haircut may not always be an option. However, with a good set of clippers and a little practice, you can achieve a professional-looking haircut right in the comfort of your own home. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of cutting hair with clippers.

Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools. Invest in a high-quality pair of clippers, a comb, a pair of sharp scissors, and a mirror. Additionally, having a clean towel and a spray bottle filled with water will come in handy.

1. Prepare the Hair: Start by washing and towel-drying the hair. Wet hair is easier to cut, and it also ensures that you’re able to see any uneven or longer strands clearly. Once the hair is damp, comb through it to remove any tangles and ensure even distribution.

2. Select the Right Length: Clippers come with various comb attachments that determine the length of the cut. Choose the appropriate comb based on your desired hair length. If you’re unsure, start with a longer comb attachment to play it safe. Remember, you can always go shorter, but you can’t add length once it’s cut.

3. Start with the Sides and Back: Begin by running the clippers against the hair grain, working from the bottom up. Start from the sides and move towards the back, using smooth and steady motions. For an even cut, it’s important to maintain consistent pressure and avoid going over the same area repeatedly.

4. Blend the Top: Next, focus on the top of the head. Using the comb as a guide, hold the hair between your fingers and position the clippers parallel to the comb. Begin trimming the hair in a slightly upward motion. This will help blend the length between the sides and the top, creating a seamless transition.

5. Pay Attention to Detail: After trimming the main sections, it’s time to focus on the details. Use your scissors to trim any longer strands that might have been missed by the clippers. Move the scissors upwards with a comb as a guide to blend in the hair.

6. Clean Up the Neckline and Ears: Dampen the towel and place it around the neck to catch any loose hair. Use the clippers or scissors to clean up the hairline around the neck and ears, creating a clean and polished look.

7. Final Check and Finishing Touches: Once you have finished trimming, thoroughly inspect the hair for any areas that may need touching up. Make sure the length is even and that there are no visible uneven patches. If needed, make necessary adjustments.

8. Post-Haircut Care: After cutting the hair, wash away any loose hairs and apply a good quality shampoo and conditioner. This will help keep the hair healthy and maintain its shine.

Cutting your hair with clippers can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. However, with practice and following this step-by-step guide, you’ll gain confidence and achieve great results. Remember, like any skill, it takes time to perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. Happy cutting!