Using hair cutting scissors for slicing techniques is a popular method among hairstylists to create soft, textured, and blended looks. Slicing involves using the scissors to slide through the hair, removing weight and adding movement without creating blunt lines.
Here’s an in-depth guide with tips and tricks for effectively using hair-cutting scissors for slicing techniques.
Tips and Tricks for Effective Slicing with Hair Cutting Scissors
1. Choose the Right Scissors
Ensure your scissors are extremely sharp, as dull blades can snag and damage the hair, leading to uneven cuts. Scissors with convex edges are particularly suited for slicing because they provide a smooth cutting action.
Scissors with longer blades (around 6 inches or more) are generally better for slicing because they allow for more fluid, continuous motion. This helps you maintain control and achieve a smooth, seamless cut.
2. Proper Hand Positioning
Keep a relaxed grip on the scissors to allow for fluid motion. Avoid gripping too tightly, as it can restrict your hand movement and reduce the effectiveness of the slicing technique.
Hold the scissors at a slight diagonal angle relative to the section of hair you are working on. This positioning allows the blades to glide through the hair smoothly without creating harsh lines.
3. Control the Tension
When slicing, it’s important to hold the hair with minimal tension. Too much tension can cause the hair to stretch and snap back, resulting in an uneven or unintended cut.
Lightly comb through the hair and hold it gently between your fingers, ensuring it stays in place without being overly taut. This helps the scissors slide effortlessly through the hair.
4. Use the Correct Slicing Motion
Open the scissors slightly and glide them down the section of hair in a smooth, continuous motion. The cutting should be gradual, removing small amounts of hair as you move.
Do not close the blades fully or snip; instead, let the scissors slide along the hair shaft. This helps achieve the soft, feathered effect that slicing is known for.
Start with light, gentle slices and gradually increase the intensity if more weight needs to be removed. It’s easier to take off more hair than to fix a cut that’s too aggressive.
5. Section Hair Strategically
Smaller sections provide better control, allowing you to see how the hair is reacting to each slice. This is especially important when working with thick or curly hair types, where precision is key.
For a softer, more blended look, work with vertical sections of hair. This helps create a more natural flow and reduces the appearance of harsh lines or weight lines.
6. Focus on Key Areas
Slicing near the ends of the hair adds softness and movement, ideal for layered styles and reducing bulk in thick hair.
Use slicing to add face-framing layers that soften the overall shape of the haircut, enhancing the client’s facial features.
For clients with thick or heavy hair, slicing can strategically remove weight without sacrificing length, resulting in a more manageable and lighter feel.
7. Adapt Slicing Techniques for Different Hair Types
On straight hair, slicing helps to break up blunt lines and add subtle movement. Use a gentle, slow slicing motion to avoid over-texturizing.
Curly hair benefits from careful slicing to enhance the curl pattern and remove excess bulk. Be mindful of how curls spring back; slice gradually to avoid removing too much hair.
Slicing can add body and texture to fine hair but should be used sparingly to avoid making the hair appear too thin.
8. Combine with Other Techniques
Combining point cutting with slicing can add depth and dimension to the hair, perfect for creating modern, layered looks.
Use thinning scissors for areas where even more texture is desired. However, slicing provides a more organic texture compared to the uniform effect of thinning scissors.
9. Finish with Detailing
After slicing, comb through the hair and check the flow and movement. Adjust any areas that seem too heavy or unbalanced by adding light slices to refine the cut.
Use the tips of the scissors to blend any rough edges left by slicing, ensuring a polished and cohesive look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Slicing
Excessive slicing can lead to thin, wispy ends that look uneven. Always start conservatively and build up as needed.
Holding the scissors at the wrong angle can cause the hair to be cut too bluntly. Keep the blades slightly open and angled for optimal slicing action.
Dull blades can pull the hair instead of slicing smoothly, damaging the cut and the hair shaft. Regularly sharpen your scissors to maintain their performance.
Final Thoughts
Mastering slicing techniques with Professional hair cutting scissors is essential for creating modern, versatile hairstyles that suit a variety of hair types and textures. By using the right scissors, maintaining a relaxed hand position, and controlling your slicing motion, you can achieve beautiful, flowing cuts that enhance your client’s natural hair movement. Remember, slicing is about adding subtlety and dimension—approach each cut with patience and precision, and your results will reflect the skill and artistry of your craft.