What You Need to Know About Cutting Hair at 90 Degrees

The Art of Elevation: Mastering Hair Cutting Techniques

Hey there, future barbers! Let’s talk about something fundamental that can elevate your haircutting game—pun intended. Ever heard someone mention cutting hair at a 90-degree angle from the scalp? That’s what we call elevation in the world of barbering, and it’s a game changer when it comes to creating volume and shape in haircuts.

What is Elevation, Anyway?

So, what’s the big deal about elevation? Cutting hair at 90 degrees from the scalp is crucial—it’s like the secret sauce of haircutting that lets you build those divine layers and styles that flow beautifully. Imagine you’re giving your client a fresh cut, and as you elevate the hair, you’re allowing each strand to find its own place. This technique results in a uniform layer that brings movement and body to the hair. It’s the perfect balance of fullness and lightness—something every barber dreams of achieving!

But let’s pause there for a sec. Have you ever noticed how some hairstyles just have that bounce or life to them? That’s often the power of elevation in action. You’re not just trimming hair; you’re crafting a look that turns heads and brings smiles. Isn’t that what it’s all about?

Layering, Over-Direction, and Point Cutting—Oh My!

Before we dive deeper into elevation, let’s take a quick detour into some other haircutting techniques. They all play a role in achieving those picture-perfect styles your clients crave.

1. Layering: This technique is all about creating dimension and texture. You’re not sticking to one strict angle. Instead, layering involves cutting at various angles to create movement. Think of it like the layers of a cake—each slice is unique but adds to the whole. The result? A dynamic appearance that breathes life into each strand.

2. Over-Direction: Here’s where things get interesting: over-direction is pulling the hair away from its natural fall before cutting. This technique helps create more length in specific areas, allowing you to sculpt styles that have a bit more flair. Ever seen a haircut with a dramatic undercut? Chances are, over-direction played a pivotal role in achieving that look.

3. Point Cutting: This is more about softening the edges rather than changing the length significantly. By cutting into the hair’s ends at different angles (like little points or snips), you can achieve a more textured look. It’s like giving the hair a gentle brush-up; you’re enhancing the finish without compromising on the overall shape.

Why Elevation is Key

Going back to elevation—it’s not just a technique; it’s the foundation of so many styles! When you hold the hair at 90 degrees and then snip away, you’re essentially giving it structure. That balance between fullness and lightness we talked about? Elevation makes it happen.

You see, everyone has different hair types and textures. Elevation allows you to adapt your approach based on what’s in front of you—be it thick and curly hair or fine and straight locks. By mastering this technique, you're essentially giving yourself a toolbox filled with diverse looks to work with.

Putting It All Together: Practice is Key

You might be itching to grab those scissors and go for an elevation cut, but remember: practice makes perfect! Think of every haircut as both a canvas and a learning opportunity. The more you experiment with elevation, layering, over-direction, and point cutting, the more versatile you’ll become as a barber.

Plus, don’t think of it as just cutting hair—you're crafting an experience for your clients. It's about connecting with them, understanding their wants and needs, and translating that into a hairstyle that’s a true reflection of their personality.

Client Connection: Beyond the Chair

Speaking of connection, let’s not forget that barbering is also about building relationships. Your clients come to you not just for a haircut but for that experience where they feel seen and heard. It’s as much about your understanding of their style and preferences as it is about mastering techniques like elevation. So, while you’re cutting away, make your clients feel involved in the process. Ask questions, get their input, and watch their eyes light up when they see their new look!

In Conclusion: Elevate Your Skills

So there you have it—a closer look at the technique of elevation in haircutting. Remember, it’s all about creating movement and structure while making your clients feel fantastic.

As you progress on your barbering journey, keep practicing elevation and don’t shy away from experimenting with layering, over-direction, and point cutting. Dive into this artistry with a sense of curiosity and passion, and you’ll soon discover your unique style keeps evolving.

Now, go forth and elevate those skills! You’ve got this, barbers! ✂️