Mastering the Art of Point Cutting: A Comprehensive Guide to Texturizing Hair
Point cutting is a versatile hair cutting technique used to add texture, softness, and movement to hairstyles. Unlike blunt cuts that create a solid, defined line, point cutting removes weight and softens edges, resulting in a more natural and effortless look. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about point cutting, from understanding the basics to mastering advanced techniques.
## What is Point Cutting?
Point cutting involves holding the scissors vertically or at an angle and making small, precise cuts into the ends of the hair. This creates varying lengths within the hair strands, which breaks up the solid line of a blunt cut and adds texture and volume. The depth and angle of the cuts determine the amount of texture and the overall effect.
## Why Use Point Cutting?
Point cutting offers numerous benefits:
* **Adds Texture:** Creates a more textured and dimensional look, preventing hair from looking flat or lifeless.
* **Softens Edges:** Softens harsh lines and creates a more natural, blended finish.
* **Removes Weight:** Reduces bulkiness, especially in thick hair, making it easier to style and manage.
* **Creates Movement:** Encourages natural movement and bounce in the hair.
* **Blends Layers:** Seamlessly blends layers for a more cohesive and natural look.
* **Customizable:** Can be adapted to suit various hair types and styles.
## Tools You’ll Need
Before you start point cutting, make sure you have the following tools:
* **Sharp Hair Cutting Scissors:** Invest in high-quality, sharp scissors specifically designed for hair cutting. Dull scissors will pull and damage the hair.
* **Comb:** A fine-tooth comb is essential for sectioning and controlling the hair.
* **Spray Bottle with Water:** Use a spray bottle to keep the hair damp, making it easier to cut and manage. (Important Note: Point cutting can be done on dry hair as well, but for beginners, damp hair is recommended.)
* **Hair Clips:** Use clips to section the hair and keep it out of the way while you’re working.
* **Mirror:** A hand-held mirror is helpful for checking the back of your head.
* **Cape or Towel:** Protect your clothing from hair clippings.
## Understanding Different Point Cutting Techniques
There are several variations of point cutting, each producing a slightly different effect:
* **Deep Point Cutting:** Involves holding the scissors at a deeper angle (45-90 degrees) and making deeper cuts into the hair. This technique removes more weight and creates more dramatic texture. Use with caution, as it can create holes in the hair if overdone.
* **Shallow Point Cutting:** Uses a shallower angle (15-30 degrees) and makes smaller, more subtle cuts. This is ideal for softening edges and adding a touch of texture without removing too much weight. A safer technique for beginners.
* **Vertical Point Cutting:** Holding the scissors vertically and point cutting upwards into the ends. This creates a softer edge and removes more weight from the very ends of the hair.
* **Notching:** A more aggressive form of point cutting where chunks of hair are removed. Not recommended for beginners. The scissors are held at a more extreme angle, and deeper cuts are made.
* **Slithering (or Effilating):** While technically not point cutting, it uses the scissors in a sliding motion along the hair shaft to thin it out. Can damage hair if not done properly.
## Preparing the Hair
1. **Wash and Condition:** Start with clean, conditioned hair. This will make it easier to manage and cut.
2. **Towel Dry:** Gently towel dry the hair to remove excess water. The hair should be damp, not soaking wet.
3. **Detangle:** Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle the hair. Work from the ends up to the roots to avoid breakage.
4. **Section the Hair:** Divide the hair into manageable sections using clips. The number of sections will depend on the thickness and length of the hair. A common method is to section the hair into four quadrants: two in the front and two in the back. For more complex haircuts, you might need more sections. Consider the desired style when sectioning.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Point Cutting
This guide will focus on shallow point cutting, the most beginner-friendly technique.
1. **Choose Your Section:** Start with one of the front sections. Release it from the clip and comb it smooth.
2. **Determine the Length:** Decide how much length you want to remove. Remember, you can always cut more, but you can’t put it back! It’s best to start conservatively.
3. **Hold the Hair:** Hold the section of hair between your index and middle fingers, pulling it taut and away from your head. The amount of hair you hold in each section should be small, about 1/2 to 1 inch wide.
4. **Position Your Scissors:** Hold your scissors at a shallow angle (approximately 15-30 degrees) to the hair shaft. The tips of the scissors should be pointing towards the ends of the hair.
5. **Make the Cuts:** Make small, precise cuts into the ends of the hair. The cuts should be about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Avoid cutting straight across; instead, make angled cuts.
6. **Repeat:** Continue making cuts along the entire section of hair, maintaining a consistent angle and depth. Overlap your cuts slightly to ensure a seamless blend.
7. **Release the Section:** Release the section and let it fall naturally. Check for any unevenness or harsh lines.
8. **Repeat on Other Sections:** Repeat steps 1-7 on the remaining sections of hair, working your way around the head. Ensure that you are being consistent with the length and angle of your cuts across all sections.
9. **Cross-Check:** Once you’ve completed all sections, it’s important to cross-check your work. Comb the hair in different directions and look for any unevenness or gaps. Make any necessary adjustments by point cutting those areas.
10. **Style and Evaluate:** Style your hair as you normally would and evaluate the results. You may need to make further adjustments to achieve your desired look.
## Advanced Point Cutting Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics of shallow point cutting, you can experiment with more advanced techniques:
* **Deep Point Cutting:** Use a steeper angle to remove more weight and create a more textured look. Be careful not to overdo it, as this can create holes in the hair.
* **Vertical Point Cutting:** Hold the scissors vertically and point cut upwards into the ends of the hair. This is great for softening the ends of layers and adding volume to the crown.
* **Point Cutting for Bangs:** Point cutting can be used to soften the edges of bangs and create a more feathered look. Use a shallow angle and small, precise cuts.
* **Texturizing Thick Hair:** For thick hair, point cutting can be used to remove bulk and create movement. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair.
## Point Cutting for Different Hair Types
* **Fine Hair:** Use a very shallow angle and avoid removing too much weight. Focus on softening the ends and adding subtle texture. Deep point cutting is generally not recommended for fine hair.
* **Thick Hair:** Point cutting is excellent for removing bulk and adding movement. You can use a deeper angle and make more aggressive cuts, but be careful not to create holes.
* **Curly Hair:** Point cutting can help define curls and reduce frizz. Work with the natural curl pattern and avoid cutting too much length from any one curl.
* **Straight Hair:** Point cutting can add texture and movement to straight hair, preventing it from looking flat and lifeless. Use a combination of shallow and deep point cutting to create dimension.
## Tips for Success
* **Start Small:** It’s always better to start with small cuts and gradually remove more hair if needed. You can always cut more, but you can’t put it back!
* **Use Sharp Scissors:** Sharp scissors are essential for clean, precise cuts. Dull scissors will pull and damage the hair.
* **Keep the Hair Damp:** Damp hair is easier to cut and manage. Use a spray bottle to keep the hair moist.
* **Take Your Time:** Don’t rush the process. Point cutting requires patience and attention to detail.
* **Practice:** The more you practice, the better you’ll become at point cutting. Experiment with different angles and depths to see what works best for your hair.
* **Consider Professional Help:** If you’re unsure about point cutting your own hair, consider seeking professional help from a stylist.
* **Watch Tutorials:** There are many helpful online tutorials that demonstrate point cutting techniques. Watch a few videos before you start to get a better understanding of the process.
* **Clean your tools:** Always clean and sanitize your scissors and combs after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria.
* **Use good lighting:** Adequate lighting is essential for seeing what you’re doing and ensuring even cuts.
* **Check your work frequently:** Step back and examine your hair from different angles to check for any unevenness or mistakes.
* **Less is more:** Remember that the goal of point cutting is to add texture and softness, not to drastically change the length or shape of your hair. Start with a subtle approach and gradually increase the intensity as needed.
* **Consider face shape:** The way you point cut can be adapted to flatter your face shape. For example, adding more volume at the crown can elongate a round face, while softening the edges around the face can soften a square face.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
* **Using Dull Scissors:** This is the most common mistake and can lead to split ends and damaged hair.
* **Cutting Too Much at Once:** Start with small cuts and gradually remove more hair as needed.
* **Cutting Straight Across:** Point cutting involves angled cuts, not straight lines.
* **Ignoring Hair Texture:** Different hair types require different point cutting techniques.
* **Rushing the Process:** Take your time and pay attention to detail.
* **Not Cross-Checking:** Always cross-check your work to ensure evenness.
* **Over-texturizing:** Removing too much weight can make the hair look thin and stringy.
* **Uneven Sections:** Consistent sectioning is vital. Ensure each section is roughly the same size.
## Troubleshooting Common Point Cutting Issues
* **Uneven Texture:** If the texture is uneven, go back and point cut the areas that are too blunt or thick.
* **Holes in Hair:** If you’ve created holes in the hair, try blending the surrounding hair to fill them in. This is usually caused by deep point cutting.
* **Frizzy Ends:** If the ends are frizzy, use a smoothing serum or oil to add moisture and tame the frizz.
* **Lack of Movement:** If the hair still lacks movement, try point cutting at a steeper angle to remove more weight.
* **Too Much Volume Removed:** If you’ve removed too much volume, try using volumizing products to add body back to the hair.
## Maintaining Your Point Cut
* **Regular Trims:** Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape and texture of your point cut.
* **Use Quality Products:** Use high-quality shampoos, conditioners, and styling products to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
* **Avoid Heat Damage:** Minimize the use of heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, to prevent damage.
* **Protect Your Hair from the Sun:** Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when exposed to the sun.
## Conclusion
Point cutting is a fantastic technique for adding texture, softness, and movement to your hair. By understanding the basics, mastering the techniques, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can achieve salon-worthy results at home. Remember to start slow, use sharp scissors, and practice regularly. With patience and dedication, you’ll be able to transform your hair and create a variety of stunning styles.