How to Taper a Neckline With a Straight Razor

A do-it-yourself professional look is entirely achievable.

A great short haircut can often seem choppy or too thick without proper tapering, especially along the neckline, or the nape, of the cut. Shears can help achieve different lengths, which creates a tapered look, but often the outcome is unprofessional looking without further care. A straight razor is a wonderful tool to use when tapering the area around the neckline and gives the haircut a blended more uniform look.

Things You'll Need

• Straight razor
• Hair shears

Instructions

1. Comb hair at the neckline from the bottom up and while combing use shears to cut hair at a 45-degree angle. This will create a slow tapering-off effect as the hair flows down the neck. However, using shears alone often creates a choppy, thick look.

2. Starting at the hair about 2 to 3 inches above the neckline, move the straight razor up and down, all the way down to the neckline. This will help to blend the different lengths of hair together making the tapering effect look seamless.

3. Shave any long hairs that may fall beneath the neckline. Brush any loose hairs off the neck and check a final time for any further areas that may need tapering or trimming.

Tips & Warnings

• A straight razor is extremely sharp so you should take extreme care when using one.

References

• How to Taper a Man's Haircut
• Men's Short Haircuts and the Barbershop