Small side bangs are a versatile and chic addition to any hairstyle. They can frame your face, add a touch of playfulness, and transform your look without a major haircut commitment. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, small side bangs can be tailored to suit your personal style and face shape. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of cutting small side bangs at home, step – by – step, while also considering how different hair types and personal characteristics influence the outcome.
Understanding Face Shapes & Small Side Bangs
Before you start cutting, it’s important to understand how small side bangs can complement your face shape. Different face shapes have unique features that can be enhanced or softened with the right bang style.
Oval Face
If you have an oval – shaped face, you’re in luck! Almost any type of bang, including small side bangs, will look great on you. The symmetry of an oval face means that side bangs can be worn in a variety of lengths and styles. You can go for a shorter, more textured look to add a bit of edge, or a longer, side – swept style for a more elegant vibe.
Round Face
For those with round faces, small side bangs can help create the illusion of a longer face. By sweeping the bangs to the side, you can draw attention away from the roundness of your cheeks and towards your eyes. A longer side bang that grazes your cheekbone can also add some definition to your face.
Square Face
Square faces have strong jawlines, and small side bangs can soften this feature. Opt for bangs that are slightly longer on the sides to frame your face and create a more oval – like appearance. Avoid bangs that are too short and blunt, as they can accentuate the squareness of your face.
Heart – Shaped Face
Heart – shaped faces have wider foreheads and narrower chins. Small side bangs can balance out these proportions by covering part of the forehead and drawing attention to the eyes and cheekbones. A side – swept bang that starts at the top of your eyebrow and gradually gets longer towards the side can be very flattering.
Choosing the Right Hair Type for Small Side Bangs
Your hair type also plays a crucial role in how small side bangs will look and behave.
Straight Hair
Straight hair is the easiest to work with when it comes to cutting small side bangs. The strands fall smoothly, and you can easily create a clean, sharp line. If you have straight hair, you can experiment with different lengths and textures, from a sleek, straight – across look to a more tousled, piece – y style.
Wavy Hair
Wavy hair adds a bit of texture and volume to small side bangs. When cutting wavy bangs, it’s best to cut them slightly longer than you think you need, as the waves will make them appear shorter once they dry. You can also use a curling iron or a flat iron to enhance the waves and create a more defined look.
Curly Hair
Curly hair requires a bit more care when cutting small side bangs. The natural curl of the hair can make it difficult to achieve a precise line, so it’s important to cut the bangs when they are dry and in their natural state. Curly bangs can be worn in a variety of ways, from a tight, defined curl to a looser, more relaxed look. Just be prepared for some natural shrinkage as the curls dry, and cut them a bit longer to compensate.
Gathering the Necessary Tools
Before you start cutting, make sure you have all the tools you’ll need:
-
Sharp Hair – Cutting Scissors: Invest in a good pair of hair – cutting scissors. Regular household scissors can damage your hair and make it difficult to achieve a clean cut.
-
Fine – Tooth Comb: This will help you section your hair and ensure an even cut.
-
Hair Clips: Use these to section off the rest of your hair while you focus on the bangs.
-
Water Spray Bottle: Keeping your hair slightly damp will make it easier to cut.
-
Mirror: A large, well – lit mirror is essential for seeing what you’re doing.
Step – by – Step Guide to Cutting Small Side Bangs
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Start by washing and conditioning your hair as you normally would. Towel – dry it until it’s slightly damp. This will make the hair more manageable and easier to cut.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Use a fine – tooth comb to section off the hair that will become your side bangs. For small side bangs, you’ll want to take a small triangle – shaped section from the front of your hair, starting at the top of your head and extending down towards your temple. The size of the triangle will depend on how thick and long you want your bangs to be. A good rule of thumb is to start with a smaller section and adjust as you go.
Step 3: Comb the Section Forward
With the sectioned hair held in front of your face, comb it forward so that it’s smooth and free of tangles. Make sure the hair is evenly distributed and not bunched up in one area.
Step 4: Determine the Length
Decide on the length of your small side bangs. You can hold a ruler or a comb against your face to get an idea of where you want the bangs to fall. Remember to consider your face shape and hair type when making this decision. For example, if you have a round face and straight hair, you might want to go for a shorter bang that ends above your eyebrows.
Step 5: Start Cutting
Hold the hair between your index and middle fingers and start cutting. Cut slowly and in small increments. It’s better to cut too little than too much. You can always go back and trim more if needed.
Step 6: Create the Side – Swept Effect
Once you’ve cut the basic length of your bangs, use the comb to sweep the bangs to the side you want them to fall. Comb them in that direction and then trim any stray hairs that are too long or uneven.
Step 7: Check & Adjust
Step back from the mirror and take a look at your new small side bangs from different angles. Make any final adjustments to the length or shape as needed.
Styling Small Side Bangs
Once you’ve cut your small side bangs, it’s time to style them to suit your look.
For Straight Hair
- Sleek and Straight: Use a flat iron to straighten your bangs and add a bit of hairspray to keep them in place.
- Tousled: Apply a small amount of texturizing spray and use your fingers to tousle the bangs for a more casual, piece – y look.
For Wavy Hair
- Enhance Waves: Use a curling iron to add more waves to your bangs, or twist them with your fingers while they’re damp and let them air – dry for a natural, beachy wave.
- Define with Product: Apply a bit of sea salt spray or mousse to define the waves and add hold.
For Curly Hair
-
Embrace the Curls: Let your natural curls do their thing. You can use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to enhance the curls and add volume.
-
Define with Gel: If your curls are a bit too wild, use a small amount of curl – defining gel to tame them and add shine.
Tips for Maintaining Small Side Bangs
-
Regular Trims: Small side bangs grow out quickly, so you’ll need to trim them every few weeks to keep them looking fresh. You can either do this yourself at home or visit a salon.
-
Protect from Heat: Avoid using too much heat styling on your bangs, as it can damage the hair and make it more difficult to style.
-
Use Protective Products: If you must use heat styling tools, apply a heat – protectant spray to your bangs first.
Conclusion
Cutting small side bangs is a great way to change up your look without a major commitment. By understanding your face shape, hair type, and following the step – by – step guide above, you can achieve a stylish and flattering set of small side bangs that complement your personal features. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust as you go. With a little patience and the right tools, you’ll be rocking your new small side bangs in no time.
Related topics:
- Cutting Short Natural Black Hair: Professional Techniques For Stylists
- Short Haircuts for Women: A Comprehensive Guide to Style and Maintenance
- How To Make Your Face Look Smaller With Short Hair
