Read this before you pick up the scissors

We totally understand if you’ve considered cutting your own hair at some point in the last few months. Maybe your favorite salon is closed, or you're trying to stick to a new budget. Either way, there are some key things you should know before you pick up the scissors and start cutting. Follow the expert advice below, like what to buy, where to start, and how to cut, and you’ll be a lot happier with the end result of your at-home haircut. Just remember, stylists are professionals so don’t be too hard on yourself if your cut isn’t perfect.

Make a clear goal

Setting a goal isn’t something you normally have to worry about before a haircut, but it can make things a whole lot easier if you plan to be your own stylist. While a trained pro can look at your Pinterest screenshots and translate it to your texture and length, you’re better off with a more specific plan. Before you google “how to cut my own hair”, identify your hair texture and your cuts current shape. Think about what you want; a few inches off, bangs, to refresh you layers and go from there. If you’re worried about how things will turn, simple trim for maintenance is your best bet.

Tools matter

If you take one piece of advice from this article, let it be this; buy a pair of hair cutting shears. Pro hairstylists consider proper shears a must for any at-home haircut. The blades on your kitchen scissors are too thick and too dull to give you a precise cut on hair. It’s how you end up with uneven cuts and split ends. Smaller blade shears are even better because they give you more control over how you cut. You can get a pair for just around $10 on Amazon. 

Cut Dry

Even though your stylist may cut your hair while it’s wet, you’re better off cutting your hair while it's dry. In fact, it’s easier if you style your hair the way you normally would (like a blowout or straight hair) then cut. This way, you won’t be surprised when your hair dries and it’s shorter than you want it. If you can tweak and touch up your cut while your hair is dry and styled, the final result will be exactly as it looks while you’re cutting. No surprises.

Use your resources

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel when attempting an at-home haircut. Pull up a tutorial on YouTube and follow along. This is especially useful if you’re attempting something more complicated than a quick trim. We like this long layers tutorial, this one for curly hair, and this video for bangs.

Last but certainly not least, have fun. Throw on your favorite playlist, grab a LaCroix and enjoy the process. Finish with our Perfect Repair Leave In Treatment to curb split ends and make your hair look as healthy and shiny as possible.