Haircut Terminology

Hairdressers have certain terminology which we as layman’s may not understand. It makes sense to know a bit more about the terms used by your stylist before you go under the scissors.

Slide cutting – This technique is used to create a haircut with a soft shape. It gives hair a wispy appearance and separation. It works well on thick hair since it cuts down the volume, it also helps in creating texture. It is not meant for fine hair or curls.

Slicing – This technique is similar to slide cutting. It leaves the hair with textured, feathered finish. This haircut is also not meant for thin, fine hair or curly hair. Both these techniques require slicing or sliding the scissors through the hair without closing the blade.

Graduation – This is a type of layering where the hair gets shorter until it reaches a certain point. This cut is commonly used on Bobs, where the hair at the front is longer and shorter at the back of the head. It is commonly known as graduated Bob.

Layers – A layered haircut is a style where the hair is not of one length. Layers add definition to the hair, create volume and reduce weight giving your hair a proper style.

Feathers – Feathering is not usually a technical cutting term but stylist use this as a terminology to describe the finishing. It creates a soft and wispy look with no blunt or sharp lines. Feathers are not good for thin and fine hair or curls.

Point cutting – This cut requires the point of the scissors to break up blunt lines in a haircut. Stylist usually finish the ends of your hair or a fringe with point cutting to prevent the style from looking too harsh. The final result can be fine or chunky.