How to Layer the Sides of Hair

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Layered hair styles are varied in length and shape. Long layered cuts, circle cuts and beveled cuts are all considered a layered style. The exact styles differ depending on the preferred look, length of cut and design of the cut. When side layers are cut into hair, the hair in front frames the face starting at the bangs and gradually getting longer to frame the face.

Get the hair wet. When cutting hair, it is best to start with clean, damp hair. If the hair is dry, get a spray bottle and fill it with water. Spray the hair to dampen it.

Comb out all of the tangles. Always start with tangle-free hair to prevent snags or uneven cuts. Part the hair for the cut either along one side or down the middle as preferred. Separate the hair into sections and pin the hair up. When cutting a layer at the side, pin up the top parts of the side hair and start underneath at the bottom layer. Pull the back part of the hair into a ponytail holder to keep it out of the way or push it back out of the way and pin it.

Comb out the hair in workable sections. Sections for layering are about the side of the pointer and middle finger. Slip the hair between the pointer and middle finger and pull the hair away from the face. Slide the fingers down the hair until the get near the end. Angle the fingers at the end and cut on the outside of the fingers.

Repeat the process on the other side of the hair. Pull the two sections forward to the middle of the face to match up the lengths of the two sides. If one side is longer, trim it to match the other side.

Remove the pins and holding up the top layers of hair, part it for the next section down and pin up the layers again. Comb out the section and repeat the cut, gradually shortening the layer so that it ends up shorter than the bottom layer. Angle the fingers again and cut along the angled line.

Repeat for the rest of the hair at the sides. This will result in side layers while leaving the back of the hair longer. The layers should frame the face, depending on the length.