The layered bob with bangs is a timeless and versatile hairstyle that can complement various face shapes and hair types. Whether you’re looking for a fresh look or want to try your hand at DIY haircuts, cutting a layered bob with bangs yourself is achievable with the right tools, techniques, and patience. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring you end up with a chic and stylish cut.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cutting process. Having the right tools will not only make the job easier but will also result in a professional-looking finish.
Essential Tools
- Sharp hair-cutting scissors: These are crucial for a clean and precise cut.
- Fine-tooth comb: Helps to section and smooth the hair.
- Sectioning clips: Keeps hair in place while cutting.
- Spray bottle with water: To dampen your hair, making it easier to manage.
- Mirror: A large, well-lit mirror is essential for visibility.
- Blow dryer and round brush: For styling after the cut.
- Hair elastic or bands: For sectioning the hair.
Optional Tools
- Thinning shears: Useful for removing bulk from thick hair.
- Razor: For adding texture to the ends of your layers.
Preparing Your Hair for Cutting
Proper preparation is key to achieving the best results. Follow these steps to get your hair ready for the cut.
Step 1: Wash and Condition Your Hair
Start with clean, conditioned hair. This will make it easier to work with and give you a more accurate cut. Use a shampoo and conditioner suited for your hair type. Rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue.
Step 2: Towel-Dry Your Hair
Gently towel-dry your hair to remove excess water. Your hair should be damp, not soaking wet, as damp hair is easier to cut and will help you achieve more precise lines.
Step 3: Detangle Your Hair
Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to remove any knots or tangles. Smooth, tangle-free hair will ensure even sections and a more accurate cut.
Step 4: Section Your Hair
Sectioning your hair is crucial for a layered bob with bangs. It helps to control the cut and ensures consistency throughout.
- Create a middle part: Use your comb to part your hair down the middle from your forehead to the nape of your neck.
- Section off the crown: Gather the hair from the crown of your head and secure it with a clip.
- Section the sides: Divide the remaining hair on each side of your head into front and back sections. Clip each section to keep them separated.
Cutting the Layers
The layering process adds dimension and movement to the bob. Follow these steps carefully to create soft, blended layers.
Step 1: Start with the Back
- Release the back section: Let down the sectioned hair at the back of your head.
- Create a guide: Take a small section from the nape of your neck, comb it straight down, and determine the length of your bob. This will be your guide length.
- Cut the length: Hold the hair between your fingers and cut straight across to create your baseline.
- Layer the back: Take small horizontal sections from the back, comb them down, and trim them to the length of the guide. As you move up, slightly elevate each section to create layers.
Step 2: Move to the Sides
- Release one side section: Starting with one side, take a horizontal section from the bottom.
- Blend with the back: Using the back section as a guide, cut the side section to match the length.
- Layer the side: Continue taking small sections, elevating slightly as you move upward to blend with the layers in the back.
- Repeat on the other side: Once the first side is complete, move to the other side and repeat the process.
Step 3: Check for Symmetry
After cutting both sides, use your mirror to check for symmetry. Ensure that both sides are even and that the layers blend seamlessly.
Cutting the Bangs
Bangs can make or break a bob, so it’s important to approach this step with care. Whether you’re going for blunt bangs, side-swept, or wispy bangs, the technique will vary slightly.
Step 1: Decide on the Type of Bangs
Consider your face shape and personal style when choosing the type of bangs.
- Blunt bangs: Straight across, just above the eyebrows.
- Side-swept bangs: Angled to one side, starting longer on one side and gradually shortening.
- Wispy bangs: Light and feathery, with uneven ends.
Step 2: Section the Bangs
- Create a triangle section: Use your comb to create a triangular section at the front of your head. The base of the triangle should be at your hairline, and the point should be near the crown.
- Clip the rest of your hair: Secure the remaining hair out of the way with clips.
Step 3: Cut the Bangs
Blunt Bangs:
- Comb the bangs straight down.
- Hold the hair between your fingers at the desired length and cut straight across.
- Trim small sections at a time to avoid cutting too much.
Side-Swept Bangs:
- Comb the bangs to the side they will sweep toward.
- Start cutting from the longer side, angling the scissors diagonally to create a gradual slope.
- Cut in small, upward snips to avoid a harsh line.
Wispy Bangs:
- Comb the bangs straight down.
- Hold the hair loosely between your fingers and point-cut into the ends, creating uneven, light ends.
Step 4: Refine and Check
Once you’ve cut the initial shape of the bangs, check for any unevenness or strays. Use your scissors to make small adjustments as needed.
See Also: How To Cut A Lob Haircut On Yourself
Blending the Layers with the Bangs
Blending the bangs with the rest of the bob is essential for a cohesive look. This step ensures that the bangs transition smoothly into the layers.
Step 1: Blend the Sides
- Take small sections near the bangs: Start at the front of your head where the bangs meet the side layers.
- Point cut to blend: Use your scissors to point cut, blending the bangs into the side layers. This will soften the transition and avoid any harsh lines.
Step 2: Check the Overall Shape
Stand back and assess the overall shape of your cut. Ensure that the layers and bangs blend seamlessly and that the bob has a balanced, even shape.
Styling Your Layered Bob with Bangs
Styling is the final step to perfecting your DIY layered bob with bangs. Follow these tips to achieve a polished, salon-quality look.
Step 1: Blow-Dry Your Hair
- Apply a heat protectant: Before blow-drying, apply a heat protectant to prevent damage.
- Use a round brush: Blow-dry your hair in sections using a round brush to create volume and smoothness. Focus on curling the ends under slightly for a classic bob shape.
Step 2: Style the Bangs
- Blunt Bangs: Use a small round brush to blow-dry the bangs straight down, curving slightly under at the ends.
- Side-Swept Bangs: Blow-dry the bangs to the side, using your fingers to guide them into the desired shape.
- Wispy Bangs: Blow-dry the bangs straight down, using your fingers to tousle them for a light, airy finish.
Step 3: Finish with Products
- Add texture: If desired, use a texturizing spray or a light pomade to add definition to the layers and bangs.
- Set with hairspray: Lightly mist your hair with hairspray to hold the style in place without making it stiff.
Maintaining Your Layered Bob with Bangs
Maintaining your new cut is crucial for keeping it looking fresh and stylish. Regular trims and proper care will ensure your bob remains in top shape.
Step 1: Regular Trims
To maintain the shape of your bob and keep your bangs at the desired length, trim your hair every 4-6 weeks. This will prevent split ends and keep your layers looking sharp.
Step 2: Proper Hair Care
Use products suited to your hair type, such as moisturizing shampoos and conditioners for dry hair or volumizing products for fine hair. Regular deep conditioning treatments can also keep your hair healthy and shiny.
Step 3: Styling Tips
- For volume: Use a volumizing mousse before blow-drying to add body to your bob.
- For sleekness: Use a flat iron to smooth your layers and bangs for a sleek, polished look.
- For texture: Use a sea salt spray or texturizing spray to enhance the layers and create a beachy, tousled effect.
Conclusion
Cutting a layered bob with bangs yourself can be a rewarding and satisfying experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve a professional-looking haircut at home. Remember, patience and precision are key, so take your time and enjoy the process. With practice, you’ll become more confident in your DIY hairstyling skills, allowing you to experiment with different styles and looks.