A pixie cut is one of the most iconic and versatile hairstyles a woman can have. It’s bold, chic, and low-maintenance, and it works on a variety of hair types and face shapes. Whether you’re looking for a fresh new style or seeking to maintain your pixie cut, understanding how to cut this style is essential for achieving a well-balanced and flattering look.
Cutting a pixie cut is not just about chopping off length—it’s about creating texture, volume, and shape. A well-executed pixie cut can frame the face beautifully and showcase your features. This guide will take you through every step of the process, from preparation to finishing touches, so you can achieve the perfect pixie cut.
Tools You Will Need
Before starting, it’s crucial to have the right tools for the job. The right equipment ensures that you cut the hair precisely, avoiding mistakes and creating a clean, professional-looking finish. Here’s a list of essential tools you’ll need for cutting a pixie cut:
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Sharp Hair-Cutting Scissors: Make sure the scissors are sharp and specifically designed for cutting hair. Dull scissors can create uneven cuts and damage the hair.
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Fine-Tooth Comb: This will help detangle the hair and ensure smooth sections while cutting.
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Hair Clippers with Guards: Clippers are essential for cutting the back and sides, particularly when you want a clean, tapered look.
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Sectioning Clips: These clips will help you section the hair to make the cutting process more manageable and precise.
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Spray Bottle with Water: Keeping the hair slightly damp during the cutting process will make it easier to cut and style.
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Mirror: A large mirror and a handheld mirror will help you see the back of your head, ensuring you cut evenly.
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Blow Dryer and Styling Products (Optional): Once the cut is finished, you can use a blow dryer and products to style the pixie cut to your desired look.
Preparing the Hair for Cutting
Proper preparation is key to ensuring that the cut is neat and the finished look is balanced. Here’s how you should prepare the hair before starting:
1. Wash and Dry the Hair
Start with clean, damp hair. This makes it easier to cut evenly and ensures that there are no tangles or product build-up in the hair. You can use a light conditioner to help with detangling, but avoid using heavy products as they can weigh the hair down.
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Tip: It’s ideal to cut hair when it’s damp because it allows you to see the natural texture of the hair and avoid mistakes. However, it should not be soaking wet.
2. Section the Hair
Sectioning the hair is essential to maintain control and ensure that each part is cut evenly. Depending on the style of pixie cut, you may choose to create three or four sections to divide the hair.
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Top Section (Crown Area): This section will be the longest and most styled area. Create a section from the front hairline to the crown of your head.
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Sides: Create a section that includes the sides of the hair, including the temples, and extends from the top of the ear to the nape of the neck.
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Back: The back section includes the hair at the nape of your neck. This area will likely be the shortest, and you may need to use clippers for a clean finish.
3. Comb Through the Hair
After sectioning, comb through the hair to remove any tangles. Use a fine-tooth comb to ensure the hair is smooth and manageable before cutting.
How to Cut a Women’s Pixie Cut: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that your hair is prepped, you can start cutting the pixie cut. The key to a successful pixie cut is to work slowly and methodically, cutting in small sections to ensure you don’t take off too much length at once.
Step 1: Start with the Back
The back is often the most critical area when cutting a pixie cut. Begin with the lowest section of the hair, using clippers or scissors to trim the hair.
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Use Hair Clippers: If you’re using clippers, start with a longer guard (usually a #4 or #5) to remove bulk from the back. As you move upward, gradually switch to shorter guards to create a smooth taper.
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Blend the Hair: Be sure to blend the hair as you go to avoid any harsh lines. A smooth transition is key for creating a professional, well-finished pixie.
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Check Your Work: After cutting the back, check for evenness. If needed, trim any longer sections to create a smooth, uniform length.
Step 2: Trim the Sides
Next, move to the sides of the head. Here’s where you can create the characteristic shape of the pixie cut. Use scissors to cut small sections at a time. The sides should be slightly shorter than the top, but not as short as the back.
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Angle the Scissors: To create a soft, blended look, angle the scissors slightly as you cut. This will create a smooth, layered effect on the sides.
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Leave Length Near the Face: Ensure that the sides are a little longer near the face to frame it. This adds softness to the pixie cut, preventing it from looking too harsh.
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Work Slowly: Move in small sections and check the balance as you go. It’s important to make gradual adjustments to avoid cutting too much.
Step 3: Cut the Top
Once the sides and back are trimmed, it’s time to cut the top. The top section of the pixie cut is where you’ll leave more length for styling.
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Cut Small Sections: Starting at the front, cut small sections of the top hair, working your way back. Always check the length after each cut to ensure that the top stays balanced.
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Leave Length for Styling: The key to a pixie cut is having some length on the top for versatility. Leave enough hair to create volume or style it with texture later.
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Blend the Layers: Use point-cutting techniques (cutting into the ends of the hair) to blend the layers together and soften the lines.
Step 4: Blend and Shape
Now that you’ve cut the main sections, it’s time to blend and refine the shape. Check the overall balance of the cut.
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Use Point Cutting: Point cutting is a technique where you cut into the hair at an angle, creating texture and a softer finish. This will help eliminate any harsh lines or unevenness.
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Blend the Layers: Make sure the hair flows naturally from the back to the top and sides. You may need to use the scissors to trim and blend the layers until the shape is cohesive.
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Check the Shape from All Angles: Use mirrors to check your work from the front, side, and back to ensure the cut is balanced. If needed, trim any uneven areas to perfect the shape.
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Finishing Touches: How to Style the Pixie Cut
Once the cut is finished, you can style the pixie cut to bring it to life.
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Dry the Hair: Use a blow dryer with a round brush to lift the roots and create volume. If you want a sleek look, use a flat brush to smooth the hair.
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Add Texture: Use a texturizing spray, pomade, or wax to add texture and movement to the pixie. These products help create a messy, tousled look that’s a hallmark of the pixie style.
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Finish with Hairspray: Use a light-hold hairspray to keep the pixie cut in place without making it stiff.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Cutting Too Much at Once: Always cut in small sections and check frequently to ensure you’re not taking off too much length at once. It’s better to cut less and adjust as needed.
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Not Blending Layers: Make sure to blend the layers to avoid harsh lines and ensure the pixie cut looks soft and natural.
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Not Considering Face Shape: While pixie cuts suit most face shapes, it’s essential to consider how the style will frame your face. For example, longer pixie cuts with bangs can soften angular faces, while shorter cuts may suit round faces better.
Conclusion
Cutting a pixie cut is an art form that requires patience, precision, and attention to detail. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a stylish, flattering look that is both chic and low-maintenance. Whether you’re cutting the pixie for yourself or others, practice is key to perfecting the technique. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, and soon you’ll be able to create a perfect pixie cut that showcases your personality and enhances your features.
Remember, a pixie cut isn’t just a haircut—it’s a statement. With the right cut, styling products, and a little creativity, you’ll be able to rock your pixie with confidence, no matter the occasion!
