Hair Care and Haircutting Services
Services and products
Know the shampoo families - clarifying (removes buildup), balancing, moisturizing/hydrating, and medicated (scalp conditions, used only as directed) - and when a conditioner or scalp treatment is appropriate. Hair analysis before cutting covers texture, density, porosity, elasticity, growth pattern, and scalp condition. Every service starts with a consultation, proper draping (shampoo cape, neck strip so the cape never touches skin), and clean, disinfected tools.
Cutting theory
A haircut is controlled by three variables: elevation (how far hair is lifted from the head), the guideline (stationary, traveling, or combination), and distribution/angle of the section. 0° elevation produces a one-length, blunt cut; 45° gives a graduated or stacked shape; 90° creates uniform layers; 180° gives long layers and removes the most weight. Cutting with a razor, point cutting, notching, and slicing are texturizing techniques used to soften weight, usually performed on dry hair or with care on wet hair. Clipper-over-comb, shear-over-comb, tapers, and fades rely on steady comb position and consistent tension.
Traps
- Tension: stretching wet hair tight yields a shorter, uneven result when it dries.
- Stationary vs. traveling guideline: a traveling guideline moves with each section; a stationary one stays fixed.
- Guard numbers are in eighths of an inch: #1 = 1/8", #2 = 1/4", #3 = 3/8", #4 = 1/2".
- Cross-check the cut in the opposite direction before finishing.
Worked example
A client requests a chin-length one-length bob. Choose 0° elevation, a stationary guideline at the perimeter, blunt cutting, and no interior texturizing unless requested. Then cross-check both sides for balance.