Otis Singleton
Cutting hair with electric clippers can be an easy and enjoyable process. It is important to choose the right clippers for your hair type and desired style, as well as to familiarise yourself with the clippers before beginning. Before cutting, wash your hair and ensure it is completely dry to prevent the blades from rusting and to achieve your desired style. To start cutting, attach the correct guard for your desired length and begin with the back and sides, working slowly and carefully around the ears. For the smartest cut, run the clippers in the opposite direction to your hair growth. Finally, tidy up the neckline and use a mirror to check for any missed spots.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hair preparation | Wash hair, towel dry, comb out tangles |
| Clipper preparation | Familiarise yourself with the clippers, choose the correct guard length, dry and oil the clippers afterwards |
| Cutting technique | Start with the back and sides, cut against the direction of hair growth, work in small sections, go slowly, use a mirror, cut around the ears and nape of the neck carefully |
| Post-cut maintenance | Check for missed spots by running your hand over your head, trim neckline and sideburns, rinse or towel-dry hair |
| Cost | £20-£70 depending on brand and features |
| Power source | Corded or cordless |
| Clipper grades | Numbered or marked in millimetres, e.g. 3/8", 4/8", etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right clippers for your hair length and style
When choosing the right hair clippers for your hair length and style, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, identify the style you want to achieve and the specific length you desire. Most clippers come with adjustable blade lengths, allowing you to select the appropriate setting for your desired haircut. For example, for a longer haircut, you'll need shaving lengths of 16mm or more, while a short buzz cut may require settings between 1 and 3mm. If you want a military-style burr cut, a grade 1 or 2 guard will give you a very short length.
Additionally, consider the features of the clippers. Clippers with adjustable levers and taper arms allow for more precise fades and blending between different lengths. If you want a fade, look for clippers with multiple guard options and small steps between shaving lengths. For a long fade, clippers with separate brush attachments are ideal. For creating neat lines and detailing, opt for clippers with extra small attachments or a precision trimmer.
The power and motor of the clippers are also important, especially if you have thick or curly hair. A strong motor will easily cut through this hair type and provide consistent performance. Clippers with stainless steel or titanium-coated blades offer durability and long-term sharpness. If you have fine hair, a lighter, magnetic motor will suffice.
Other considerations include the grip of the clippers to ensure comfort and ease of use, and whether you prefer a wired or wireless model. Wired clippers provide consistent power but restrict your movement, whereas wireless clippers offer freedom of movement but may require frequent charging.
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Preparing your hair for cutting
After washing, towel-dry your hair and comb it out to remove any tangles. It is important to ensure your hair is completely dry before cutting, as wet hair does not sit or lay the same way as dry hair, which can result in an unintended look.
Before cutting, decide on the hairstyle you wish to achieve. Choose a style that flatters your face shape and consider the length you want. Most clipper sets provide 8 guards, numbered 1 through 8, with 1 being the shortest length and 8 the longest. If you are cutting your own hair, it is recommended to start with a longer guard length and cut in increments to avoid cutting your hair too short.
Finally, determine the direction in which your hair grows. This can be done by running your hand through your hair and feeling the counterforce. You should cut your hair in the opposite direction to its growth. For example, if your hair grows downwards, cut your hair in an upward motion.
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Understanding the direction of hair growth
When starting to cut hair with electric clippers, it is important to first determine the direction of hair growth. This is crucial as cutting with the grain can help achieve a clean and even cut. Begin by feeling the hair with your hand to understand the direction it is growing in. Typically, hair grows downward from the top of the head, forward on the sides, and downward at the back of the neck.
Once you have identified the direction of hair growth, you can start cutting. For the sides, start cutting against the direction of hair growth, moving in an upward motion from the bottom. This will help you achieve a smooth and close cut. Similarly, when cutting the back of the head, move the clippers in an upward direction, going against the hair growth. This will ensure that all hairs are effectively trimmed.
When it comes to the top of the head, the direction of cutting depends on the hairstyle you desire. For a fade or blend, cut against the direction of hair growth, scooping the clippers outwards from the head. This will create a softer cut. However, if you want a clean line or a more defined look, cut in the same direction as the hair growth.
For areas like the sideburns and the back of the neck, it is generally recommended to cut in the direction of hair growth. This will help create a clean and precise hairline. Use the clippers without a guard to get closer to the skin and trim in the direction your hair naturally grows. This technique can also be applied when trimming around the ears to ensure a neat and defined hairline.
By understanding the direction of hair growth and adjusting your cutting technique accordingly, you can achieve a well-groomed and polished look with your electric clippers. Remember to work slowly, steadily, and with careful strokes for the best results.
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Using the correct guard for your desired length
Before you start cutting your hair, it is important to attach the correct guard for your desired length. Clipper grades and cutting lengths are interchangeable and refer to the millimetre measurement of the comb length used. A quick guide to clipper guard lengths is that a grade 7 or 8 leaves a sensible 25mm or so of growth, and below a grade 4 is entering armed forces territory. If you are unsure, it is always better to start with a longer guard and then move to shorter ones. For example, if you want a half-inch cut, you should use a number 4 guard.
If you are cutting your hair at home, it is important to invest in high-quality clippers, and some hairdressing scissors. You should also choose a good location with a mirror and a sink, and consider putting down newspaper to catch any stray hairs. Make sure your hair is clean and dry before you start cutting, as dirty hair can clog the clippers, and wet hair is difficult to cut properly.
Once you have the right tools and set-up, you can begin cutting your hair. Hold your clippers with the blades pointing downwards and the tip of the guard lightly touching your scalp. Start with the back and sides, and run the clippers up the sides of your head in the opposite direction of hair growth, taking care around the ears. Make sure each side is evenly trimmed before moving to the back of your head.
If you want a clean line at the nape of your neck, remove the guard and carefully cut a line from behind your ears to the nape of your neck, drawing the clippers downwards. You can also use a mirror to cut razor-sharp sideburns, ensuring that they are even in length.
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Cleaning and maintaining your clippers
To keep your clippers in good working condition, it’s important to clean and maintain them regularly. This will help them last longer and ensure they give you the best performance during each cut. Here are some tips to help you clean and maintain your electric hair clippers:
Firstly, before and after each use, use the small cleaning brush provided with your clippers to brush out any loose hair or debris that might be trapped in the blade. Alternatively, an old toothbrush will do the trick. If your clippers have a rinseable snap-on/off blade, you can easily remove and rinse it clean. Avoid leaving your blades wet, as this may cause rusting.
Next, apply some blade oil to lubricate the blades. This will allow them to run at the correct speed, ensure better cutting, and help the clipper run cooler. It is recommended to oil the blades before and after each use. Place 3 drops of oil along the top blade and one drop at either side. Turn the clipper on to allow the oil to run along the blades, then remove any excess oil with a clean cloth. Store your blades in a low-moisture environment to avoid corrosion and in a storage case or pouch to prevent any damage.
Additionally, it is important to familiarise yourself with your hair clippers. Spend some time turning them on and off, feeling their weight in your hand, and finding the most comfortable grip. If your clippers are cordless, remember to keep them charged. Most hair clippers come with multiple comb attachments, so be sure to select the correct one for your desired hair length.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your electric hair clippers well-maintained and in good condition for a long time.
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Frequently asked questions
Wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner, or your preferred body wash. Towel dry your hair and comb it out to remove any tangles.
Think about the styles you want to create now and in the future. Most clippers come with a choice of combs, guards and attachments, but some also allow you to adjust blade angles. Clippers typically range from £20-£70 depending on the brand and features.
Start with the back and sides first. Set the clippers to the right length (usually a lower number). Using the tip of the blade, run the clippers up the sides of the head, taking care around the ears. Make sure each side is evenly trimmed before moving to the back of the head.
Remove the guard and flip the clipper over in your hand. Carefully cut a line at the back of the neck and around the ears, making sure you draw the clippers downwards from the hairline.
Dry and oil the clippers after use to keep the blades clean and sharp.
