How to Cut Hair Using Thinning Scissors

Thinning scissors are used to add shape to a hairstyle without changing the actual style. The thinning scissors thin out the hair to make the hair more manageable or the cut more stylish. Thinning scissors look like regular scissors except for the blades are more like combs than straight blades. This allows for some strands of hair to be cut shorter than the rest of the hair. These scissors are great for individuals with very thick or curly hair. They also work great when cutting layers to keep the style smooth rather than blocky or choppy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Thinning scissors

1. Comb hair. Make sure all tangles are out and that the hair is combed into the correct style. Some individuals prefer a part on the left, in the middle or on the right, while others may prefer the hair be combed straight back.

2. Take a section of hair and cut at a 45-degree angle approximately three inches from the scalp. While holding the same section of hair, move the thinning scissors down and then cut again.

3. Repeat the cutting process throughout all sections of hair. If you want to thin out only a section of hair, like the hair around the face, then focus your efforts there. For all-over layers or thinning, repeat the process throughout the entire head of hair.

4. Cut only in the middle of the hair. Depending on the length of the hair, you may be able to make one, two, or three cuts in each section of hair. Short hair should only be cut once in the middle of the strand while longer hair will require more depending on the desired style and amount of hair that needs to be thinned out.

5. Use thinning scissors sparingly. These scissors can remove a lot of hair, so start slow and make a couple cuts to see how the style looks. If more is desired, then make a few more cuts. Going slowly ensures a better style. Also, don't use thinning scissors frequently because it can cut too much hair from the style over time and the hair will become thin and stringy.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy thinning scissors from a beauty supply store. Buy thinning scissors with double rows of little teeth to thin hair or blend layers. Fewer teeth are better for thinning extremely curly or thick hair.
• Don't use on thin hair or thinning hair

Resources

• Haircut Guide