Why do hairdressers cut hair upwards?

If you’ve ever sat in the chair at a salon and noticed your stylist cutting your hair upwards rather than straight down, you may have wondered why they do that. Cutting hair upwards, or point-cutting, is a technique that experienced stylists use to create texture, remove bulk, and soften the edges of a cut. Whether you’re at Salon No. 100 or visiting another Solihull Hairdresser, knowing the purpose behind this method can help you understand how to get the most out of your haircut.

In this blog, we’ll explore the different techniques hairdressers use when cutting hair, why they sometimes cut upwards, the advantages and disadvantages of this method, and when it’s most appropriate. Understanding these cutting techniques can enhance your salon experience and give you more confidence during your next visit.

Common Haircutting Techniques

Hairdressers use various methods to cut and style hair, each designed to achieve a specific look or texture. While cutting hair straight down is the most traditional method, different techniques offer different results.

1. Blunt Cutting

Blunt cutting is perhaps the most well-known technique. The hairdresser cuts across the hair in a straight line, usually resulting in a sharp and defined look. This method is perfect for creating sleek bobs, lobs, or other structured styles. However, it can make the hair look too heavy or blocky if not done carefully.

2. Point Cutting

Point cutting involves snipping the hair upwards, towards the ends. Rather than cutting straight across, the stylist uses the scissors at an angle to create texture and movement. It’s ideal for reducing bulk in thicker hair or giving layers a softer, more natural finish.

3. Slide Cutting

This technique involves sliding the scissors down the hair rather than making a clean cut. Slide cutting helps to remove weight without losing length, making it ideal for adding dimension to long hair.

4. Texturising

Texturising shears, which have teeth along one edge, allow hairdressers to remove bulk and add texture. This technique is often used to create wispy ends or volume in short hair.

5. Razor Cutting

With razor cutting, the stylist uses a straight razor instead of scissors. The result is a soft, feathery look that works well for certain hairstyles, but it’s not suitable for everyone—especially those with fine or frizzy hair.

Each method has its place, and your Solihull Hairdresser will decide on the technique depending on your hair type, style preferences, and desired finish.

Why Hairdressers Cut Hair Upwards

You may have seen your hairdresser cutting into the ends of your hair in an upward motion, but what’s the reason behind this?

1. Adding Texture

Cutting upwards into the hair allows stylists to add texture and movement, particularly to straight or thick hair. By slicing into the hair at an angle, they create softness and dimension that a blunt cut can’t achieve. This is perfect for styles that need more body and life, such as layered looks or shag cuts.

2. Reducing Bulk

For clients with thick or coarse hair, cutting upwards helps remove excess weight without sacrificing length. It allows the stylist to thin out the hair in a way that maintains the overall shape of the cut but makes it feel lighter and more manageable.

3. Softening the Edges

Point cutting softens the blunt edges of a haircut, especially when layering. It helps prevent the ‘helmet’ look that can occur when hair is cut straight across. If you’re after a more natural, lived-in style, like beachy waves or a tousled bob, this technique is likely to be used by your hairdresser in Solihull.

4. Creating Movement

Upward cutting can be used to enhance the natural movement of your hair. It’s particularly effective for adding bounce to curls or giving straight hair a slight wave. This approach allows hair to flow more naturally and avoids any stiffness that might result from a blunt cut.

5. Blending Layers

Layers that are cut using upward techniques tend to blend more seamlessly than those cut with a straight line. This technique helps avoid the harsh lines that can make layers look choppy or disconnected, providing a smoother transition between lengths.

Pros and Cons of Upward Cutting Techniques

Like any hairdressing technique, cutting upwards has its pros and cons. Understanding both sides can help you decide whether this method is right for you.

Pros:

• Adds texture and volume: Cutting upwards creates a textured look, making it ideal for clients wanting more movement and body in their hair.
• Softens blunt ends: This technique helps to avoid harsh, blunt edges and results in a more natural, blended look.
• Reduces bulk: For those with thick hair, point-cutting upwards helps to thin out the hair without removing too much length.
• Enhances natural movement: Whether you have straight or wavy hair, cutting upwards encourages natural flow and bounce.

Cons:

• Not ideal for thin hair: If you have thin or fine hair, cutting upwards can remove too much bulk and leave your hair looking stringy.
• Can cause split ends: When not done correctly, point cutting can sometimes cause or exacerbate split ends, as the hair is cut at an angle rather than a clean, straight line.
• Needs experience: Cutting hair upwards requires precision and skill. If done by someone inexperienced, it can result in uneven layers or a choppy appearance.

At Salon No. 100, our expert stylists know when to use this technique to its best advantage and when to avoid it, ensuring you always leave with a flattering and healthy haircut.

When Hairdressers Use Different Techniques

Choosing the right cutting technique depends on various factors, including hair type, style preferences, and the final look the client wants to achieve.

1. For Fine Hair

For clients with fine or thin hair, upward cutting is usually avoided, as it can remove too much weight and leave the hair looking flat or sparse. Instead, a hairdresser in Solihull might opt for blunt cutting to add weight and volume.

2. For Thick Hair

Clients with thicker hair often benefit from upward cutting techniques to reduce bulk and add movement. Point cutting is a go-to for those wanting a more lightweight, textured style without losing too much length.

3. For Curly Hair

Curly hair requires a careful approach, and cutting upwards can enhance the natural bounce and shape of the curls. However, it’s essential to use this technique sparingly to avoid creating frizz or uneven layers.

4. For Layered Looks

For layered styles, point cutting is often used to blend the layers and avoid any sharp, harsh lines. This technique helps the layers flow together naturally, creating a cohesive look.

Conclusion

Cutting hair upwards is an essential technique in the hairstyling world, used to add texture, reduce bulk, and create a softer finish. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it’s a powerful tool in the hands of an experienced Solihull Hairdresser, like those at Salon No. 100. The key is knowing when and how to use this technique, which is why professional guidance can make all the difference.

Whether you’re looking to remove bulk from thick hair or add texture to a blunt cut, upward cutting offers flexibility and versatility. Ready to try it for yourself? Book an appointment at Salon No. 100 today and let our expert stylists help you achieve the perfect look.

For the best Solihull hairdresser, look no further than Salon No. 100! Serving clients from Olton, Shirley, Knowle, Elmdon, Eastcote, Hall Green, Bickenhill, Cheswick Green, Sheldon, Dorridge, we’ve gathered hundreds of five-star reviews over the past few years. Call 07966105306 and book your appointment today!