So you are super thrilled about your new hair extensions – who wouldn’t be? The only problem is, they’re not exactly what you need lengthwise. Does that mean you’re all out of luck? No, ma’am!
If you’re not satisfied with the length of your hair extensions, you can simply cut them. That’s right – no need to replace and spend even more money on your dream locks. Oh, and don’t worry. You won’t need experience or any super expensive tools to cut them yourself.
Keep reading to find out how to cut hair extensions into sections by yourself.
Contents
How to Cut Hair Extensions: Step-by-Step Guide
Hair extensions are supposed to make you feel better about yourself, not worse. So if you’re unhappy with the length of your hair extensions, it’s cause for concern. The good news is, hair extensions can easily be cut, no matter what type of hair extension you’re wearing!
1. Install the Hair Extensions
The first step is to install the hair extensions. Why? Well, for obvious reasons. Trying to cut your hair extensions to the desired length when they’re out of your hair is simply a recipe for disaster. You’re not going to get the right length.
That said, have them installed first. If you’re using DIY types like clip-ins, halos, or tape-ins, it will be a much quicker process with no professional hairstylist involved. If you have more permanent options that require professional installation, consider having them cut your strands instead.
2. Brush Thoroughly and Section Off
Once your hair extensions are installed, brush through them thoroughly – but gently. The last thing you want to do is damage the hair or the adhesive. From there, you can section the hair. Now, how you section the hair depends on how you’re planning to style your extensions.
- For a trim, section the hair into four sections. Two in the front, two in the back. When working on a single area, make sure the hair is pulled into tight quarters.
- For a bob haircut, section into two sections down the middle. Bob cuts won’t need four sections so that you can stick to two equal parts instead.
- For layers, pull the hair back into a ponytail. A low ponytail will give you less obvious layers. A medium layer will provide you with a bit more. And a high ponytail will provide you with tremendous, flowing layers that have tons of contrast.
Here’s a great video showing you how to do layers:
3. Start Cutting
Ready for the fun part? It’s time to start cutting! Now, there are several different methods you can use to cut your hair. Let’s take a closer look.
Blunt Cut
This is the simplest type of cut. There really isn’t any specific technique when it comes to blunt cutting. To execute a blunt cut, grab the hair in-between your fingertips and chop off as much as you’d like in a straight motion across the bottom.
Point Cutting
Point cutting can also be referred to as feathering. This technique will get rid of any sharp, unsightly lines that might currently be flawing your look.
To use the point cutting technique, use the hair cutting shears to cut upwards into the ends. This will feather the hair and create cute natural ends.
Here’s how to point cut your hair extensions:
Slicing
Slicing is going to create those face-framing layers plenty of women hope and dream for. A framed face is a soft, delicate face, so who wouldn’t want to give it a try?
To slice your hair, section into two parts. Grab the hair and cut downwards from the center to the end in a diagonal motion.
Tip: Close and open the shears gently to create an even more professionally done look.
Slithering
Slithering is another great technique for creating softer liner and smooth layers. To slither, open the shears and take them to the midshaft. Slide the shears down towards the ends. Keep the shears open the entire time for a flirty, fun effect.
To see a variety of techniques, check out this handy vid:
Tips for Success
Here are a few simple tips to ensure you’re satisfied with your locks:
- Don’t overdo it. Cutting too much or too short might end in a nightmare. That said, go slowly and don’t cut too short right off the bat.
- Add curls or waves to blend. Curls and waves will allow the hair to blend seamlessly, no matter which cutting style you adopted.
- Cut all over. If you leave too little hair on top of your head, it can end up looking like a mullet. Make sure you’re cutting all over your mane.
Final Words
If you’re unhappy with the length of your hair extensions, it’s a cinch to fix them. All you need to do is section your hair – either into four parts or two parts – and use one of the easy cutting techniques to get the job done.
