Cutting your hair while it’s dirty is not what stylists consider ideal. Unwashed hair has a good chance of containing patches of grease or product build-up, which can lead shears to slip and cut unevenly.
Be sure to keep the conditioner at least 1 inch away from your scalp to avoid flat, greasy bangs.
You can also use a blow-dryer for faster results, but be aware that heat causes changes in the hydrogen bonds that hold hair together. Too much heat can result in permanent damage. [2] X Expert Source Courtney FosterProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 9 December 2019. Don’t fret if your hair’s not completely dry. Actually, this might be better. Cutting completely dry hair gives you an immediate sense of the results but is hard to do and needs sharp tools. You may find it uneven when washed and restyled. Cutting your hair while damp is easier – not dripping wet, just towel dried to even dampness. It’s more likely to give an even result. Your hair shouldn’t clump together or drip.
To get rid of tangles and knots with the least amount of hair damage, use a wide-tooth comb, start at the ends of your hair, and work your way up toward your roots. [3] X Research source
Bangs are essentially a shorter version of your current hairstyle, but help frame your face. Wearing it as normal will help you get a better idea of how you would like it cut.
Use a uniform triangular shape when you section the hair. For thicker bangs, start further back on your head. For less thickness, start closer to your forehead. If your hair is layered, grab the strands of hair that are used to blend the front portion of your hair to the back portion. These hairs are often shorter and easier to transform into bangs due to their short length.
Working without hair potentially getting in the way can help you avoid mistakes and cutting unintended hair. A ponytail is also another look you may want to incorporate with your new style.
Don’t be afraid to pull hair from further back and near the center of your head. This can often help avoid issues of thinness when your bangs are ready to be styled.
Beauty supply stores often sell scissors meant for hair at various sizes. Smaller scissors will allow for more control and may come in handy when shaping your fringe.
For classic bangs, the shortest point should fall at the bridge of the nose between your eyes. Remember to cut less and leave more. You can always come back and cut more if your new bangs are too long. You can keep your hair in position with a comb with your non-dominant hand and cut with your dominant hand.
Cut at a diagonal angle - about 45 degrees - to achieve an edgier, less blunt look. Some bangs are straight across the forehead and longer as you get to one side. Other styles can be curved, with length that slightly increases toward the outside corners.
Cutting less and leaving more hair is a great way to avoid common mistakes like a crooked line or missing chunks. Remember to be patient. Think of your hair as an art piece - nothing is perfect when rushed.
Remember, if your bangs are still too long, you can always re-comb and re-cut. The same cannot be said about them being too short! If your new bangs are too thin, pull hair from closer to the top of your head and cut accordingly. If they’re too thick, hold them up straight and cut into the ends deeply with vertical or diagonal snips.