Preparation
Consultation:
Discuss with your client the desired length, layer placement, and overall look.
Consider their styling habits and maintenance preferences.
Wash and Condition:
Use a lightweight moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to cleanse and hydrate the hair without weighing it down.
Detangle the hair thoroughly.
Pre-Dry:
Towel-dry the hair to remove excess water, then let it air dry or diffuse it slightly until it’s damp.
Apply a lightweight curl-enhancing cream or mousse to define the waves and provide a visual guide.
Cutting Technique
1. Section the Hair
Divide the hair into four main sections:
Two front sections from the top of the ear forward.
Two back sections from the crown to the nape.
Use clips to secure each section.
2. Establish the Length
Start at the back. Comb the hair downward and cut a straight baseline for the desired length.
Keep the baseline blunt to maintain fullness at the ends.
3. Create the Layers
Back Layers:
Take a vertical subsection from the crown to the nape.
Elevate the hair at a 90-degree angle and point-cut the ends for a soft, feathered finish.
Continue working through the back, blending the layers.
Side Layers:
Move to the front sections.
Starting near the ear, take vertical sections and overdirect them slightly backward to preserve length at the front.
Point-cut the ends for a seamless blend with the back layers.
Face-Framing Layers:
Section off a triangular portion at the front.
Decide on the shortest layer length (usually around the cheekbone or jawline).
Use a sliding cutting technique to blend the shortest layer into the longer hair.
4. Texturizing
Use thinning shears or point-cutting to remove bulk and refine the layers.Focus on the ends and mid-lengths to avoid compromising the shape.
Final Touches
Dry and Style:
Diffuse the hair to enhance the natural waves or let it air dry.
Scrunch in a lightweight gel or defining cream to reduce frizz and add shine.
Refinement:
Check the haircut on dry hair.
Make minor adjustments to ensure the layers are balanced and flow naturally.
Finish:
Educate the client on styling techniques to enhance their waves at home.
Recommend products for wave definition, frizz control, and hydration.