How to Trim Thinning Long Hair

Being faced with thinning hair can be a stressful situation that causes one to feel self-conscious about her appearance. Having the right haircut can make all the difference. Since the person is losing hair, it is imperative that these haircuts are just right. Otherwise, the individual may not be able to hide the fact that her hair is thinning. This could be embarrassing for that person and the stylist.

Things You'll Need

• Hair clips
• Fine-tooth comb
• Hair-cutting shears

Instructions

1. Begin by wetting the person's hair. You can use a spray bottle to do this.

2. Section the hair into two halves. Start at the crown of the head and comb a straight line to the middle of the ear on both sides. Clip the hair in front of the ears, out of the way.

3. Comb the remaining hair straight down and have the person tilt her head forward slightly.

4. Start at the nape of the neck and separate a 1-inch section from the bottom. Then, clip the remaining hair up.

5. Comb the hair from the scalp all the way down and cut a perfect straight line.

6. Continue working your way up the head in the back, using a 1-inch section and maintaining your new line.

7. Use the same process on the front sections in front of the ears.

Tips & Warnings

• Give the person some volume to her thinning hair by adding some long layers. Standing in front of the person, comb the hair in the front of the ears toward her face. Carefully slide the shears diagonally down the front section on either side. Work your way around the head, combing the hair toward the front to the diagonal line that you created. Carefully trim the hair to match that line. Working your way around the shape of the head will create a subtle shape and volume. If the person's hair is thinning near the forehead, recommend a side-swept bang to disguise it. Blow-dry the hair with a large round brush and then use a volumizing spray or foam. After blow-drying, make any changes to the cut that you feel would better hide the thinning hair. You may consider recommending that the person go a bit shorter if the hair is of a fine texture.

• Do not use texturizing shears or a razor to cut thinning long hair. It will emphasize the problem.