Cutting side bangs can refresh your look and add a new dimension to your hairstyle. If you’re looking for an easy-to-follow guide for beginners, you’re in the right place! This comprehensive article will walk you through the necessary steps, tools, and techniques to achieve side bangs that flatter your face shape and hair type.
Whether you want soft, wispy bangs or something more blunt, knowing how to cut side bangs is a valuable skill. Let’s explore everything you need to get started, from selecting the right length to mastering the perfect cutting technique.
How to Cut Side Bangs (Easy Techniques for Beginners)
To cut side bangs properly, first choose the style and length that suits you best. Then, prepare the tools and follow a step-by-step approach to ensure you achieve a flattering look. Here’s how you can achieve beautiful side bangs at home.
Step 1: Determine the Right Length and Style for Your Face Shape
Different face shapes can dictate the most flattering bang length and style. Here are general guidelines:
- Round Face: Opt for longer bangs that graze your cheekbones to elongate your face.
- Square Face: Choose soft, feathery bangs that soften the angularity of your jaw.
- Heart-Shaped Face: Longer side bangs draped to one side enhance the narrow forehead.
- Oval Face: Most bang styles work well; choose longer to mid-length bangs for a classic look.
When determining length, it’s usually best to start longer. You can always trim more later, but it’s harder to grow bangs out if you’ve gone too short.
Step 2: Gather Your Hair Cutting Tools
Having the right tools is essential for a clean cut. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sharp hair scissors (preferably thinning shears for a softer finish)
- A fine-tooth comb
- A mirror (preferably two for a better angle)
- Hair clips to section your hair
- An optional spray bottle with water for dampening hair
Step 3: Prepare Your Hair
Before you start cutting, it’s crucial to prepare your hair.
- Wash and dry: Clean hair is easier to manage. Start with washed and dried hair for an even cut.
- Comb your hair: Thoroughly comb your hair to remove any knots and tangles.
- Section your hair: Use hair clips to section off the top and back of your hair so you only work with the front section where you will cut the bangs.
Step 4: Section Off Your Bangs
To create side bangs, you’ll need a specific section of hair. Here’s how to do it:
- Create a triangular section at the front of your hair, starting from the top of your head down to the outer corners of your eyebrows.
- Secure the remaining hair back with clips, allowing the triangular section to hang down.
Step 5: The Cutting Technique
Once your hair is sectioned, it’s time to cut. Here are detailed instructions:
- Dampen the hair: Lightly mist the hair section with water if it feels too dry. This makes it easier to cut.
- Holding the hair: Use two fingers to hold the hair at the desired length.
- Cut the ends: Cut straight across the hair, making small snips. Ensure your angle is even and consistent.
- Feather the edges (if desired): To add texture, use your thinning shears or make point-cutting snips (using the tips of the scissors) to soften the ends. This gives a natural appearance.
- Check the length: Let the bangs fall naturally and evaluate if they are even and at your desired length. Adjust as necessary.
- Blend with the rest of your hair: Optionally, trim the sides of the bangs to blend into the longer hair on either side. You can also make slight snips along the edges to feather them out further.
Step 6: Styling Your New Bangs
After cutting your bangs, you’ll want to style them. Here are some tips:
- Blow Dry: Use a round brush while blow drying to shape your bangs, lifting them away from your forehead.
- Flat Iron (if desired): For a sleek look, you can straight iron your bangs. Remember to use a heat protectant spray to avoid damage.
- Use a Texturizing Spray: Apply a light texturizing spray for a more tousled look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cutting side bangs at home, it’s easy to make some mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Don’t cut dry hair too short. Hair shrinks when it dries, which can result in excessively short bangs.
- Be careful with tension. Pulling hair while cutting can lead to uneven lengths.
- Avoid cutting them straight across if you want a softer look; instead, utilize point cutting or texturizing.
What to Do If You’re Not Happy with the Results
If your bangs don’t turn out as you planned, here’s what you can do:
- Give it time. Sometimes, bangs take time to grow into the look.
- Consider styling alternatives like pinning them back or curling them up to redirect attention.
- Consult a professional stylist for corrective cuts if they are significantly uneven.
Maintenance Tips for Your Side Bangs
Maintaining your side bangs is crucial for keeping them fresh. Here are some effective strategies:
- Trim every 4-6 weeks to prevent them from growing too long.
- Use a lightweight styling product that doesn’t weigh down the hair.
- Adapt your hair care routine to keep your bangs healthy; consider applying a nourishing conditioner.
- Switch up your styles occasionally to keep your look fresh.
Conclusion
Cutting side bangs is a simple and effective way to refresh your look with just a few steps. By selecting the right length and style for your face shape, preparing properly, and using the correct techniques, you can achieve beautiful side bangs at home. Remember to maintain them and avoid common mistakes for the best results.
Are you ready to try your hand at cutting side bangs? Start by gathering your tools and determining the style that suits you best! For further inspiration, check out our guides on how to cut bangs and how to cut curtain bangs.