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How To Cut Long Layers Perfectly – The Ultimate Guide

How To Cut Long Layers Perfectly – The Ultimate Guide

Long hair can be stunning, but adding layers can take your client’s locks to a whole new level. Layers add movement, volume, and dimension to long hair, enhancing its overall look and feel. Hairstylists can elevate the client’s look by cutting long layers. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the benefits of layer cuts for long hair and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cut long layers perfectly. Additionally, we’ll highlight common mistakes to avoid to ensure a successful layer-cutting experience.

Is Layer Cut Good For Long Hair?

Let’s begin with a fundamental question that hairstylists get asked often: Is it good to cut hair in long layers? The answer to that question is Absolutely. 

Layered cuts are highly beneficial for long hair for several reasons:

  • Enhanced Texture: Layers add texture to long hair, preventing it from looking heavy and lifeless.
  • Volume Boost: Long hair can sometimes appear flat. Layers create volume and movement, making your hair look more vibrant and dynamic.
  • Facial Framing: Well-placed layers can frame your face, accentuating your features and giving your overall appearance a more polished look.
  • Versatility: Layered long hair is versatile and can be styled in various ways, from loose waves to sleek straight styles.

What Would You Need for a Long Layered Haircut?

Achieving layered haircuts is straightforward and can be effortlessly accomplished by using point cutting shears in conjunction with texturizing shears. Point cutting shears contribute to refined edges, while texturizing shears reduce volume, add texture, and introduce movement to the hair. 

If you’re contemplating the purchase of top-notch point cutting shears, we suggest opting for the Hanzo Mamba. This hybrid shear boasts both wet and dry cutting capabilities, featuring a slight offset that proves ideal for layer cutting. The Hanzo Mamba is available in various sizes, ranging from 4.5 inches to 6.5 inches. For texturizing, we have the Mamba texturizer that has 14-teeth and a 6.0 inch size for effective bulk reduction. 

hanzo shears for layered cuts for long straight hair 

For novice hairstylists, options like the Mamba Set or Kime Set are suitable. On the other hand, seasoned professionals dealing with a diverse clientele may find the Artist Choice or Barber Battle Sets more fitting. For more detailed information, the Hanzo live chat is available to assist with any product-related queries.

To firmly hold hair in place, we will be needing some hair clips and a good quality comb to properly straighten the hair. If you are after some premium hair cutting accessories, Hanzo has you covered there as well. 

How To Cut Layers In Long Hair – Step By Step Guide:

Mastering layered hairstyles is essential for professional hairstylists, as they are fundamental and versatile in the field. Hairstylists should follow the following steps to give an ideal long layered haircut (without damaging hair):

Step 1: Preparation

Layer cutting requires the hair to be completely tangle free. Most professional hairstylists give the clients a gentle wash and properly comb the hair before beginning the layering procedure. It is best advised to start with clean, dry hair. This ensures a more accurate cut as wet hair tends to appear longer. Detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb to remove any knots or tangles.

Step 2: Section Your Hair

Separate the hair into sections using hair clips. Divide it into at least three sections: one at the crown, one at the middle, and one at the nape of the neck.

Step 3: Start Cutting

Start cutting the back sections first. Take a small section, comb it straight, and cut at an angle to create the desired length of the layers. Continue cutting the back sections, gradually working your way up towards the crown. Remember to cut at different angles to create a natural and blended look. Once the back is complete, move on to the front sections. Use the previously cut sections as a guide to create seamless layers.

Step 4: Check and Adjust

Any haircut would appear aesthetic if it has balance and symmetry. Regularly check both sides in the mirror to ensure the layers are balanced and even. If you notice any unevenness, make small adjustments until you achieve the desired balance.

Step 5: Final Touches

Blend the layers by cutting any noticeable harsh lines, ensuring a smooth transition from one layer to the next. For added texture, you can use thinning shears to remove bulk in specific areas. Go easy on the texturizing shears to over-thinning. 

Step 6: Style as Desired

Style your newly layered hair as desired. You can experiment with curls, waves, or leave it straight to showcase the layers.

Mistakes To Avoid While Cutting Layers In Long Hair

Cutting layers in long hair is basic to hairstyling. However, this styling activity requires careful attention of the client’s hair type and condition. Hairstylists should conduct a brief discussion session and observe the client’s hair type before beginning the activity. Following mistakes should be avoided while cutting layers in long hair:  

  1. Not Using Proper Tools: Using regular scissors instead of haircutting scissors can result in uneven and jagged layers. Dull shears can damage the hair and cause split ends. To prevent this from happening, use a sharp-edged shear. For expert advice on keeping the shears in immaculate condition, consult the Shear Care Guide
  2. Cutting Too Much at Once: Gradual cutting is essential. Avoid cutting too much hair at once to prevent unexpected and drastic results.
  3. Ignoring Hair Texture: Consider your hair’s natural texture and density when cutting layers. What works for straight hair may not work for curly hair.
  4. Skipping Regular Checks: Regularly check the balance and length as you cut to prevent uneven layers.

By following this step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve beautifully layered long hair that enhances your overall appearance. For hairstylists seeking top-notch cutting education in schools or salons, connect with Hanzo Education to enhance your craft.

Check out the complete catalogue of Hanzo Premium Haircutting Shears.

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Professionals who love hanzo shears

“These scissors are the BEST! They are a must for sure! I purchased 5 different pairs… 3 for me and 2 for my son and my haircuts have bnevre been so clean and belended! LOVE LOVE LOVE!”

Kristeen W

“These shears are absolutely amazing for wet or dry cutting. They are all I’ve been using since I got them. Christian was super helpful with hooking me up with the perfect shear for me. Can’t recommend these scissors enough! Thanks Hattori for the amazing service.”

Jess V

“Precision at its finest! I don’t have words for how incredible these shears are! The company is absolutely incredible! Thank you for making me a believer!”

Josh T

What I love and appreciate most about my 6 inch Hanzo HH8 shears is the comfort in hand. Each cut is so precise making my work exact and easy. This industry found me at thirteen years old and I’ve never done anything else. The look of gratitude and happiness people have once they see the finished look is what makes my days fulfilled. I’m truly thankful for it all…

Being a barber for more than 15 years, Hattori Hanzo has been by far the best investment I have made in my entire career. I love the performance, style, and quality of the shears, plus the Hanzo Nation team is amazing…

I love Hanzo because they make my job SO much easier. I can always rely on precision cutting–both on wet and dry hair. I know Hanzo will always take care of me and my needs to better my skills as a hair stylist.

My Hanzos are a dependable tool that I can always count on to get the job done. The Hanzo family has always taken care of me in the shop and has allowed me to explore my creativity when it comes to cutting hair…

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