How to Cut a Layered Haircut

You can add volume to thin hair by cutting layers into it. It's possible to cut a layers into short, mid-length or long hair. Sometimes a layered haircut is called a circle haircut, and it is one of the first cuts a stylist learns because it can be modified to create a variety of different looks. Follow these steps to cut a layered haircut.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Wash and condition the hair. Comb it to remove the tangles. Leave it wet.

2. Divide the hair into seven sections: right nape, left nape, left crown, right crown, left side, right side and top. Use hair clips to pin the hair up loosely. As you divide the hair into sections, leave about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of hair free along the hairline's perimeter.

3. Determine how long or how short you'd like to cut the hair. Keep in the mind that wet hair is longer than dry hair and will shorten between a half inch to four inches.

4. Hold the hair loosely and cut about one inch around the head following the hairline. Begin cutting at the front of one side and work to the back. Then do the same on the other side. Be sure to blend the two sides together once you get to the middle.

5. Release the left and right nape sections. Comb the hair out, then hold a section of it out while angling it down. Cut the section bottom. Cut the other pieces of the hair using the piece that you just cut as a guide. You can cut the hair in uniform layers or you can vary the lengths to bring more body to the hair.

6. Repeat Step 5 with the other sections of hair. You may need to re-wet the hair because it's likely started to dry by this time.

7. Check the hair over when you've finished cutting. Clip any segments you may have missed.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you comb the front sections straight up on each side so that you cut the hair evenly and prevent a lopsided effect.