Cutting your braids shorter can be a transformative experience, offering a fresh look that suits your personal style and facial features. Whether you’re looking to achieve a chic, modern bob or a playful, layered pixie cut, knowing how to cut your braids shorter effectively is crucial. This guide will walk you through the process, providing tips tailored to different hairstyles and personal characteristics.
Understanding Your Hair Type & Texture
Identifying Your Hair Type
Before you start cutting, it’s essential to understand your hair type. Hair types can range from straight and fine to coarse and curly. Braids are often created with textured hair, whether it’s naturally curly, wavy, or coily. Understanding your hair’s texture will help you determine the best cutting technique and style.
- Straight or Fine Hair: This hair type is easier to manage and cut, offering a sleek look when braided.
- Wavy Hair: Wavy hair can have more volume and body, which can affect the final appearance of your shorter braids.
- Curly or Coily Hair: These textures tend to be thicker and more resilient, requiring careful handling during the cutting process.
Assessing Your Hair’s Health
The health of your hair is another critical factor. Damaged hair may require more gentle handling, while healthy hair can withstand more aggressive cutting techniques. Signs of damaged hair include split ends, breakage, and dullness.
- Healthy Hair: Shiny, elastic, and easy to manage.
- Damaged Hair: Brittle, prone to breakage, and difficult to detangle.
Choosing the Right Hairstyle
Considering Your Face Shape
Your face shape plays a significant role in determining the best hairstyle. Different face shapes respond best to different lengths and styles of braids.
- Round Face: Opt for longer layers that frame the face and create the illusion of a longer, narrower shape.
- Square Face: Soft, flowing layers can soften angular features, creating a more balanced look.
- Oval Face:Almost all hairstyles will work, but try short, layered styles to enhance the depth of your face.
- Heart-Shaped Face: Short, choppy cuts can emphasize your strong jawline and balance out your wide forehead and chin.
Deciding on Length
Deciding how short you want to go is a personal choice, but consider your lifestyle and maintenance preferences. Shorter braids require less maintenance but may need more frequent touch-ups as they grow out.
- Bob Cut: A classic, versatile length that suits most face shapes.
- Pixie Cut: A bold, edgy look that works well with textured hair.
- Lob Cut (Long Bob): Offers the best of both worlds—longer layers for styling versatility and shorter length for ease.
Preparing for the Cut
Gathering Supplies
Before you start, ensure you have the necessary tools and supplies:
- Sharp Scissors: Invest in a good pair of hair-cutting scissors for precise, clean cuts.
- Comb or Brush: A sturdy comb or brush will help detangle your hair before and during the cutting process.
- Hair Ties or Clips: To section off your hair and keep it organized.
- Mirror: A large mirror or two mirrors (one for the front and one for the back) will help you see all angles of your hair.
- Apron or Towel: To protect your clothes from hair clippings.
Prepping Your Hair
Washing and Conditioning: Wash your hair with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to ensure it’s clean and easy to manage. Avoid using products that leave a heavy residue, as this can make your hair harder to cut.
Detangling: Thoroughly detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working up to the roots. This will prevent unnecessary breakage during the cutting process.
Drying: Let your hair air dry or use a blow dryer on a low setting to avoid heat damage.
The Cutting Process
Sectioning Your Hair
Part Your Hair: Start by parting your hair into sections. For more intricate braids, you may need to create smaller, more manageable sections.
Clip Sections: Use hair ties or clips to secure each section. This will keep your hair organized and prevent you from cutting the wrong pieces.
Cutting Techniques
Point Cutting
Point cutting involves holding the scissors vertically and slicing through the hair at an angle. This technique creates texture and removes bulk without creating a harsh line.
When to Use: Ideal for creating soft layers and removing split ends.
How to Do It: Hold a section of hair between your fingers and slice through it at an angle, starting from the ends and working up towards the roots.
Blunt Cutting
Blunt cutting involves cutting the hair straight across, creating a clean, sharp line. This technique is best suited for those with straighter hair textures.
When to Use: Perfect for achieving a sleek, polished look.
How to Do It: Comb the section of hair straight down and cut it at a 90-degree angle to the scalp.
Layered Cutting
Layered cutting involves cutting different sections of hair at varying lengths to create movement and volume.
When to Use: Great for adding dimension and texture to your braids.
How to Do It: Start by cutting the longest layers at the bottom and gradually work up to shorter layers at the top. Use a combination of point and blunt cutting techniques to achieve the desired effect.
Cutting the Braids
Start with the Ends: Begin by trimming the ends of your braids. This will remove any split ends and help you visualize the final length.
Work in Layers: If you’re aiming for a layered look, cut each braid in layers, starting from the bottom and working up.
Check Your Progress: Regularly check your progress in the mirror to ensure you’re achieving the desired look.
Be Patient: Cutting braids can be time-consuming, so take your time and don’t rush.
Styling Your Shorter Braids
Once you’ve finished cutting, it’s time to style your shorter braids. Depending on your chosen style, you can experiment with different techniques.
- Curling: Use a curling iron or hot rollers to add curls or waves to your braids.
- Straightening: For a sleek, polished look, use a flat iron to straighten your braids.
- Texturizing: Add texture by using a texturizing spray or scrunching your hair with your fingers.
Maintenance Tips
- Regular Trims: To keep your braids looking their best, schedule regular trims every 6-8 weeks.
- Protective Styling: Use protective styling techniques, such as wearing a silk scarf or satin bonnet at night, to minimize damage.
- Hydration: Keep your hair hydrated by using moisturizing products and drinking plenty of water.
- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals can promote healthy hair growth.
Conclusion
Cutting your braids shorter can be a fun and rewarding experience. By understanding your hair type, choosing the right hairstyle, preparing your hair, and using the appropriate cutting techniques, you can achieve a look that suits your personal style and facial features. Remember to take your time, be patient, and enjoy the process. With the right care and maintenance, your shorter braids will stay looking their best for weeks to come.
Related topics:
- Latest Knotless Braids
- How to Do Your Own Hair Updo
- Hairstylists Share How Long Layered Cuts Can Add 70% More Volume This Spring
