Times are changing and so are hair cutting techniques. Hairstylists are making use of tools other than hair cutting shears to curate amazing hairstyles for their clients. A new technique called Razor Cutting is becoming quite popular among professional hairstylists which involves the use of hair cutting razor. This article compares and contrasts the two enormously popular hair cutting techniques.
In our Hanzo blog, we have talked several times about the various hair cutting techniques such as slice cutting, point-cutting and texturizing. Let’s begin this article with exploration of a new, lesser known and lesser used technique – Razor Cutting.
Razor Cutting – Modern Haircutting Technique
As the name implies, razor cutting makes use of hair cutting razors instead of traditional shears. This method is used by hairstylists to create soft, textured and natural-looking hairstyles. Depending upon the nature of the haircut, the hairstylist either uses a disposable blade or a guarded blade to razor cut hair.
Now, the major question is when is razor cutting used? To answer this, razor cutting is often utilized to thin out thick hair, or used where the hairstylist needs to add some movement to straight hair. If creating a textured look is desired, razor cut is optimal. Razor haircuts are best for people with jagged hair and straight hair which are not prone to frizziness.
Technique Overview
Razor haircuts require precision and skills. For starters, the technique requires the hair to be clean and detangled before starting the cutting process. Due to the sensitive nature of the technique, it is important to have a clear understanding of the client’s desired hairstyle and texture. Next comes the choice of the razor, some hair cutting razors have exposed blades while others have guarded ones. Furthermore, there are straight edge blades and jagged blades with teeth. The choice of blade depends entirely on the hairstylist and the type of haircut.
While there are multiple ways to proceed, most hairstylists adopt a simple method where hair is divided into equal sections to ensure a systematic approach. This makes it easier for the hairstylists to handle all the hair and ensure a consistent look.
Now comes the important part – holding the hair cutting razor. Experts state that the best way to hold a hair cutting razor is at a slight angle to the hair shaft. Use fluid strokes rather than long and continuous cuts. This helps in creating texture and movement in the hair. Depending upon the angle, different techniques can be utilized such as point cutting, slicing or even texturizing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Razor Cutting
Razor cutting can help you create the most natural looking hairstyles but overdoing can lead to frizz and uneven ends. One of the most common mistakes is not using all parts of the razor – when this happens, the hairstylist will find them replacing the blade more often than they should. Make sure to use the front, middle and back of the blade before reaching out for a new one.
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The second most common mistake is holding the razor perpendicular to the hair. While razor cutting, the blade should make ideally 45 degree angle with the hair shaft and the hair should have some moisture. If you pull on the hair or apply perpendicular force, it will result in hair damage and frizz.
Best Tools for Razor Cutting
If you are a professional hairstylist and on the lookout for some high quality razors, then you are at the right place. Check out the HHRZSR Straight Razor which is a premium stainless steel razor with silicon resin handles for an excellent grip. These razors have a spring-mounted clamp mechanism which holds the blade firmly in place and a rounded tip for minimum blade exposure. The HHRZFR Folding Razor has the same characteristics but the handle is foldable for easy storage/
Summary of common mistakes:
- Using razor on dry hair
- Applying perpendicular force to hair
- Not using the entire razor before replacement
When Not to Use Hair Cut Using Razor
It is best advised to NOT use hair cut razor on frizzy hair. If the client has curly hair, then razor cutting is not probably the best technique to adopt. Furthermore, if a client has over-processed hair with split ends and hair which can be easily damaged, razor cutting can make the problem worse. Razor cutting provides the best results on wet hair and if the technique is used on dry hair, it can lead to split ends.
Hair Cutting Shears – Classic Haircutting Technique
Hair cutting shears are the classic tool in every hairstylist’s professional toolkit. All professional hairstylists expert the art of using a shear before progressing to more advanced techniques such as razor cutting. There are two main types of shears: the cutting shears and the thinning shears. While cutting shears are for cutting hair, thinning shears help reduce volume and create textured looks.
Usage of Cutting Shears
Cutting shears stand as indispensable tools exclusively tailored for the art of haircutting. Engineered with sharp-edged blades, these shears excel at cutting through hair for a well-defined and precisely measured haircut. Whether in the hands of seasoned professionals or skilled barbers, these shears play a pivotal role in fashioning hairstyles of unparalleled neatness and uniformity.
The versatility of cutting shears lies in their adaptability to a spectrum of cutting techniques, ranging from blunt cuts to layered styles. The varied blade lengths available cater to specific methods, granting hair artisans the finesse to tailor their approach to the desired outcome. From blunt snips that add structure to soft texturizing for a fluid finish, cutting shears emerge as the ultimate instruments for translating artistic visions into perfectly executed haircuts.
Usage of Thinning Shears
Thinning shears, often referred to as texturizing shears or thinning scissors, serve a distinct purpose in hairdressing. These shears are equipped with teeth-like notches along one or both blades, which allow hairstylists to strategically thin out and blend sections of hair. Thinning shears are particularly useful for reducing hair volume, eliminating bulkiness, and creating seamless transitions between different lengths of hair. By using thinning shears, stylists can add texture and movement to the hair, resulting in a natural and layered appearance.
How Shear Hair Cutting and Razor Hair Cutting are Different?
Shear hair cutting is focused on precision, clean lines, and well-defined shapes, making it suitable for a wide range of haircut styles. Razor hair cutting emphasizes texture, movement, and a softer finish, lending itself to styles that require a more natural and relaxed appearance. The choice between these techniques depends on the desired outcome, the client’s hair type, and the stylist’s expertise.
FAQ: Hair Cutting Shears vs. Hair Cutting Razor
Q1: What is Razor Cutting?
Razor Cutting is a modern haircutting technique that uses hair cutting razors instead of traditional shears. It creates soft, textured, and natural-looking hairstyles by using disposable or guarded blades, depending on the haircut’s nature.
Q2: When is Razor Cutting Used?
Razor cutting is often used to thin out thick hair, add movement to straight hair, and achieve textured looks. It’s best suited for people with jagged or straight hair that isn’t prone to frizziness.
Q3: What’s the Technique Overview for Razor Cutting?
Razor haircuts require precision and skills. Hair must be clean and detangle before starting the cutting process. The choice of razor and blade type is essential. Holding the razor at a slight angle to the hair shaft and using fluid strokes helps create texture and movement.
Q4: What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid in Razor Cutting?
Overusing the razor can lead to frizz and uneven ends. Not using the entire razor before replacement is a common mistake. Holding the razor perpendicular to the hair should be avoided as it can cause damage and frizz.
Q5: When Not to Use Razor Cutting?
Razor cutting isn’t suitable for frizzy, curly hair, over-processed hair with split ends, or easily damaged hair. Best results are achieved on wet hair; using the technique on dry hair can lead to split ends.
Q6: How Are Thinning Shears Used?
Thinning shears, also known as texturizing shears, strategically thin out and blend sections of hair. They’re useful for reducing volume, eliminating bulkiness, and creating seamless transitions between different lengths of hair.
