Haircutting For Dummies
Cover of Haircutting for Dummies 2nd Edition by Jeryl E. Spear with hair being cut and combed.
Explore Book
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Haircutting For Dummies
Cover of Haircutting for Dummies 2nd Edition by Jeryl E. Spear with hair being cut and combed.Explore Book
Buy NowSubscribe on Perlego

Be cautious if you’re trying out a new style of haircut on yourself or someone else. Practice, start slowly and then let your stylish wings take flight. Keep these things in mind when cutting a style for the first time:

  • Get a mannequin head to practice your first cut of a new style. These mannequins are available at beauty stores and can be purchased for as little as $20.

  • Cut lightly the first time you do any haircut. If you want to shorten the hair 1/2 inch, cut it 1/4 inch the first time around to ensure that you’re on the right track with your new design. After you’re satisfied with your handiwork, re-cut the hair to the desired length.

  • Use a traveling guide.

  • Keep the hair pinned up as directed, so you never lose your way. Pinning helps you concentrate on one small section at a time instead of trying to fight your way through a jungle of hair.

About This Article

This article is from the book: 

About the book author:

J. Elaine Spear, also known as Jeryl, has been the executive editor of Beauty Launchpad, editor-in-chief of Hot Beauty Magazine, and content editor for Cengage's Milady cosmetology and barbering textbooks. Spear has more than 1 million social media followers. She owned and operated a multimillion-dollar salon and day spa for 15 years.