How to Cut Men’s Hair: A Comprehensive Guide

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many people to stay at home, and as a result, many have been unable to visit their favorite barber or hair salon to get a haircut. As a result, more and more men are turning to DIY haircuts. However, cutting your own hair can be intimidating and overwhelming for those who have never tried it before. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about how to cut men’s hair. From the tools you’ll need to preparation and cutting techniques, you’ll learn how to achieve that professional look from the comfort of your own home. So grab your clippers and let’s get started!

Introduction

Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to cut men’s hair. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hairstylist, this guide will provide you with valuable information and insights to help you achieve a professional-looking haircut.

Cutting your own hair or someone else’s can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done easily and efficiently. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from the tools you need to prepare the hair, cutting techniques, and finishing touches.

We understand that not everyone has the same hair type or style, which is why we will cover different cutting techniques that work for various hair types and lengths. We’ll also provide tips and tricks for achieving a perfect neckline and sideburns.

Whether you’re looking to save money by cutting your hair at home or want to start a career in hairstyling, this guide will serve as a valuable resource for you. So, let’s dive in and learn how to cut men’s hair like a pro!

Tools You Will Need

Hair Clippers

If you want to cut men’s hair at home, investing in a good pair of hair clippers is essential. Clippers consist of a motor, which powers the blades that cut the hair. The motor determines how fast the blades move, and therefore how quickly they can cut through hair.

When choosing hair clippers, consider the size and power of the motor. A more powerful motor will be able to cut through thicker hair more easily, making the job faster and more efficient. Some clippers also come with different attachments or blade guards, which allow you to adjust the length of the hair you are cutting.

Blade guards are an important feature of hair clippers, as they determine the length of the hair that is left after cutting. They attach to the blades of the clippers and come in different sizes, ranging from 1/16 inch to 1 inch. Each size represents a different length of hair, so it’s important to choose the right guard for the style you want to achieve.

When using hair clippers, make sure the blades are well-oiled and lubricated, as this helps them move smoothly and prevents them from pulling or snagging the hair. Always start with a longer blade guard and work your way down if you want to cut the hair shorter. And remember to clean the blades thoroughly after each use to keep them in top condition.

By choosing the right hair clippers and using them properly, you can achieve a professional-looking haircut at home. With practice and patience, you may even become a skilled barber yourself!

Scissors

Scissors are an essential tool for any hairstylist, and they come in different types depending on the cutting technique. The two most common types of scissors used in men’s haircuts are hair shears and thinning shears.

Hair Shears

Hair shears, also known as straight shears or cutting shears, have a sharp, straight blade that cuts the hair precisely. These shears are perfect for slicing through thick sections of hair and creating clean lines. They come in different sizes, ranging from 5 to 7 inches long, and with different handles like offset or crane handles, to provide better control.

Professional stylists use hair shears to create different styles such as textured crops, disconnected undercuts, and pompadours. It is important to keep the shears sharp to maintain their precision and avoid damaging the hair.

Thinning Shears

Thinning shears, also called texturizing shears or blending shears, have one straight blade and one notched blade with teeth. These teeth remove some of the hair as they cut, creating a softer look and removing bulk. Thinning shears are ideal for thinning out thick hair, removing weight, and adding texture.

Using thinning shears requires a delicate touch and skillful handling to achieve the desired result. The stylist should take small sections of the hair and layer them to create a natural look. Using thinning shears on the ends can also make the hair easier to manage and style.

In conclusion, knowing when and how to use hair shears and thinning shears is crucial for achieving a great-looking men’s haircut. With practice and the right tools, anyone can master the art of using scissors and create stylish, professional-looking haircuts.

Comb

One of the most essential tools for cutting men’s hair is a comb. The right comb can make all the difference in achieving the desired style and ensuring a professional finish. Let’s take a closer look at what makes a good comb and how to choose the right one.

Teeth

The teeth on a comb are crucial for creating different lengths and textures in the hair. A comb with widely spaced teeth is ideal for cutting longer hair, as it allows you to work through tangles and separate sections easily. A comb with closely spaced teeth is best for shorter haircuts or precision trimming, as it allows you to control the amount of hair being cut and create clean lines.

Tapered End

A tapered end on a comb is also important for achieving certain styles. A comb with a tapered end allows you to create a more natural-looking blend when transitioning between different lengths of hair. It also allows you to get into tight corners and hard-to-reach areas around the ears and neckline.

When choosing a comb, look for one that has both widely spaced and closely spaced teeth, as well as a tapered end. This will give you the versatility you need to achieve a variety of different cuts and styles.

In conclusion, a good comb is an essential tool for cutting men’s hair. With the right comb, you can create a range of different styles and achieve a professional finish. Remember to choose a comb with widely spaced and closely spaced teeth, as well as a tapered end, to ensure maximum versatility.

Mirror

A mirror is an essential tool when it comes to cutting hair. It allows you to see the hair from different angles and ensure that you are cutting it evenly. There are two types of mirrors that you can use: handheld and stationary.

Handheld Mirrors

Handheld mirrors are small and portable, making them easy to use when cutting hair. They are also useful for showing clients the back of their heads so they can see how their haircut looks. You can find handheld mirrors in various shapes and sizes, but it’s best to choose one that is large enough to show the entire head.

When using a handheld mirror, hold it close to the head and move it around to get a good view of all angles. Make sure that the client is holding still so that you can see the hair properly. If you’re having trouble seeing the hair, try adjusting the lighting or moving to a different area.

Stationary Mirrors

Stationary mirrors are larger than handheld mirrors and are attached to a wall or stand. They provide a clear and steady view of the hair and are especially useful when working on longer hair or more complex styles. Some stationary mirrors have built-in lights that can help you see the hair more clearly.

When setting up a stationary mirror, make sure that it is positioned at the right height and angle for you to see the hair properly. You may need to adjust the mirror or your position to get a better view. If you’re working in a salon, it’s important to make sure that the mirror is clean and free of smudges or fingerprints.

In conclusion, whether you’re using a handheld or stationary mirror, it’s important to have a clear and unobstructed view of the hair when cutting it. Take the time to set up the mirror properly and adjust it as needed to ensure that you can see the hair from all angles. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a professional-looking haircut every time.

Preparation

Wash Hair

Washing the hair is an essential part of any haircut, and it’s important to do it properly to ensure the best possible results. Here are some tips for washing men’s hair before cutting:

Shampoo

Using a good quality shampoo will help to remove excess oils and dirt from the hair, making it easier to cut and style. When choosing a shampoo, look for one that is specifically designed for men’s hair and scalp, as these tend to contain ingredients that are better suited to male hair types.

It’s important to wet the hair thoroughly before applying shampoo. Use a small amount of shampoo and lather it into the hair, working it into all areas of the scalp and hair. Massage the scalp with your fingertips to stimulate blood flow and promote healthy hair growth.

Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly with warm water, making sure to remove all traces of product from the hair. Repeat the process if necessary.

Conditioner

Conditioner is an important step in the washing process, as it helps to hydrate and soften the hair, making it more manageable and easier to cut.

Apply conditioner after shampooing, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair. Leave it in for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate the hair shaft, then rinse thoroughly with cool water. Cool water helps to close the hair cuticles, sealing in moisture and leaving the hair looking smooth and shiny.

When choosing a conditioner, look for one that is suitable for your hair type. If you have fine hair, choose a lightweight conditioner that won’t weigh it down. If you have thick or curly hair, opt for a richer, more moisturizing formulation.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your client’s hair is clean, hydrated, and ready for cutting. A little extra care and attention at this stage will make all the difference to the final result, giving your client a haircut that looks and feels great.

Dry Hair

Drying your hair properly is an essential step before cutting it. Without proper drying, you can’t achieve the desired results, and your haircut may turn out uneven. Here are some tips to dry men’s hair:

Towel Drying

After washing your hair, wrap a towel around your head and gently pat it down to remove excess water. Avoid rubbing or vigorously twisting the towel, which can damage your hair and create frizz. Use the towel to blot your hair from roots to ends until it’s mostly dry.

Hair Dryer

Once your hair is partially dry, use a hair dryer to finish the drying process. For best results, use a hair dryer with adjustable speed and heat settings. Set the dryer to medium heat and high-speed setting to quickly dry the hair without damaging it. Keep the dryer at least 6 inches away from your scalp to avoid burning your skin.

Pro Tips:

If you have long hair, use a hairbrush while blow-drying to straighten your hair and speed up the drying process.
To add volume to your hair, use your fingers to lift the roots as you blow-dry.
Always start with dry hair when using clippers or scissors to cut hair. Wet hair can shrink up to half an inch, making it difficult to get an accurate cut.

By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure that your hair is dry and ready for cutting. Remember to be gentle with your hair and avoid exposing it to too much heat, which can cause damage. With the right techniques, you can achieve a professional-looking haircut that will make you look and feel great.

Section Hair

When it comes to cutting men’s hair, it is important to section the hair properly before you start. The hair on the top of the head, sides and back are the three main areas that need to be sectioned.

Top

The hair on the top of the head is usually the longest and requires the most attention. To section this area, start by dividing the hair into four sections using a comb. Create a center parting from the forehead to the nape of the neck, then make another parting from ear to ear. This will give you four equal sections to work with.

Sides

Next, move on to the sides of the head. Use the comb to create a vertical parting from the temple to the base of the head. This will divide the hair on the sides of the head into two sections. Repeat this process on the other side of the head to create four sections in total.

Back

Finally, the back of the head should be sectioned. Start by creating a horizontal parting at the base of the head, just above the neckline. This will divide the hair at the back of the head into two sections. Then, use the comb to create a vertical parting down the center of each section. This will give you four equal sections to work with.

Properly sectioning the hair will make it easier to cut and ensure that you don’t miss any spots. It also helps to create a more even and balanced haircut. Remember to use the right tools, including sharp scissors and clippers with blade guards, to achieve the desired results.

Cutting Techniques

Clipper Over Comb

Clipper Over Comb is a popular haircutting technique used by professionals to create a clean and precise cut. The technique involves using hair clippers with a blade guard over a comb to clip the hair to the desired length.

One important aspect of the Clipper Over Comb technique is selecting the right blade guard size. The size of the blade guard determines the length of the hair that will be left on the head. Smaller blade guards result in shorter hair, while larger guards leave more length. It’s essential to choose the appropriate blade guard size based on the desired length of the haircut.

In addition to blade guard size, the angle at which the clippers are held also plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect cut. Holding the clippers parallel to the comb will result in a shorter cut, while angling them slightly away from the comb will leave more length. Professional barbers use different angles depending on what part of the head they are working on and the style of the cut they are trying to achieve.

It’s essential to practice the Clipper Over Comb technique to perfect it. As with any new skill, it takes time and patience to master. Professional barbers often spend years honing their craft and learning different techniques to give their clients the best possible haircuts.

To summarize, selecting the right blade guard size and holding the clippers at the correct angle are two critical components of the Clipper Over Comb technique. With practice and patience, anyone can learn this technique and achieve a professional-looking haircut.

Scissor Over Comb

When it comes to cutting men’s hair, one technique that is often used is the scissor over comb method. This involves using scissors and a comb together to create a uniform length throughout the hair. Here are some of the key things to keep in mind when using this technique:

Shear Angle

The angle at which you hold the shears can have a big impact on the final look of the haircut. For example, holding the shears parallel to the comb will result in a shorter cut than holding them perpendicular to the comb. Experiment with different angles to find the right one for the length and style you’re going for.

Twist Cut

Another important aspect of the scissor over comb technique is the twist cut. This involves rotating the comb as you move through the hair to create a more layered look. By twisting the comb, you can avoid creating harsh lines or choppy layers.

For example, if you’re working on the sides of the head, start by combing the hair straight out from the head. Then, twist the comb slightly as you move towards the tips of the hair. This will help create a more natural-looking taper.

By mastering the scissor over comb technique, you can achieve a precise and professional-looking haircut. Remember to keep the shear angle and twist cut in mind as you work your way through the hair, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect approach for each individual client.

Point Cutting

Point cutting is a technique used in men’s haircuts to create texture and blend the hair. This technique involves using scissors to cut into the ends of the hair at different angles, creating a choppy, textured effect.

Texturizing

One of the main benefits of point cutting is that it can add texture to the hair. By cutting into the ends of the hair, you can remove weight and create movement. This is especially useful for men with thick or heavy hair who want a more natural, tousled look. Point cutting can also be used to create layers in the hair, which can add volume and dimension.

Blending

Point cutting is also an effective way to blend different sections of hair together. For example, if you are cutting a fade haircut, you can use point cutting to seamlessly blend the longer hair on top with the shorter hair on the sides. By cutting into the hair at different angles, you can create a seamless transition between the different lengths of hair.

It’s important to note that point cutting requires a lot of skill and precision. If done incorrectly, it can result in an uneven or choppy haircut. It’s always best to leave this technique to a professional stylist who has experience with point cutting.

In conclusion, point cutting is a valuable technique for men’s haircuts that can add texture and blend the hair for a more natural, seamless look. When performed correctly by a skilled stylist, it can produce stunning results and bring out the best in any haircut.

Finishing Touches

Neckline

When it comes to cutting men’s hair, the neckline is an essential aspect that can make or break the haircut. The neckline refers to the back of the neck area, where the hairline meets the skin. There are two options for shaping the neckline: a natural or blocked look.

A natural neckline is when the hair is trimmed following the natural hairline. This means not cutting into the hairline or creating a distinct shape. Instead, the hairline blends seamlessly with the rest of the hair. A natural neckline is suitable for men who want a low-maintenance haircut that looks effortless and casual.

On the other hand, a blocked neckline is when the hairline is shaved or trimmed to create a distinct shape. This can be either straight across or curved, depending on the desired look. A blocked neckline is more defined and provides a cleaner appearance. This style is perfect for men who prefer a more polished and professional haircut.

It’s important to note that there is no right or wrong choice between a natural or blocked neckline. It ultimately depends on personal preference and the individual’s hair type. For example, if the hairline is irregular or has cowlicks, a blocked neckline may be a better option to create a more symmetrical look.

Regardless of the choice, it’s crucial to maintain the neckline regularly to keep the haircut looking fresh and sharp. It’s recommended to trim the neckline every two weeks to prevent unwanted hair growth and maintain the chosen style.

In conclusion, choosing between a natural or blocked neckline is a personal decision that depends on personal style and hair type. Both options can provide a great-looking haircut, and the key is to maintain it regularly to keep it looking fresh.

Sideburns

Sideburns are an important aspect of any men’s haircut and can greatly influence the overall look. The length and taper of the sideburns can be adjusted to match the style of the haircut and complement the face shape.

Length

The length of the sideburns can vary depending on personal preference and the hairstyle. Generally, sideburns should end at the middle of the earlobe or slightly above it. Longer sideburns can give a more dramatic look, while shorter sideburns can appear more professional.

When deciding on the length of the sideburns, consider the face shape. For example, if someone has a round face, longer sideburns can help elongate the face and make it appear slimmer. On the other hand, shorter sideburns can balance out a long and narrow face.

Taper

The taper of the sideburns refers to how they gradually become thinner as they reach the bottom. A gradual taper can give a polished and seamless look, while a more abrupt taper can create a bold and edgy appearance.

To achieve a gradual taper, start with a longer guard on the clippers and work your way down to a shorter guard as you reach the bottom of the sideburns. Use scissors to blend any harsh lines and create a smooth transition.

It’s important to ensure that both sideburns are even in length and taper. Use a comb to measure and make any necessary adjustments.

In conclusion, the length and taper of the sideburns can greatly impact the overall look of a men’s haircut. Take into consideration personal preference and face shape when deciding on the length, and use gradual tapering techniques for a polished finish.
In conclusion, cutting men’s hair is a skill that takes practice to perfect. However, with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to achieve professional-looking results at home. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can learn how to prepare the hair, use various cutting techniques, and add finishing touches to create a stylish and personalized haircut. Remember that every man’s hair is different, so be patient and experiment until you find the best approach for your client or yourself. Whether you are a professional barber or just looking to save money on haircuts, mastering the art of cutting men’s hair is a valuable skill that can benefit you for years to come.