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How Do I Choose the Best Layered Haircut?

Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen

To choose the best layered haircut, you should consider your hair texture and facial shape and ideally consult with a professional hairdresser to discuss what kind of style will work for you. The type of layered haircut that you should get will depend on your own hair and appearance. Also consider your ability to care for a particular hairstyle and request a cut that requires only the amount of maintenance that you can afford to give it.

Many people get a layered haircut because layers can give the hair more body and structure and may require less maintenance than hair that is cut to one length. For individuals who have very thick hair, a layered haircut can reduce bulk and keep them from looking overwhelmed by their own hair. The layers can also frame a person's face, which can lend a more attractive appearance.

A V haircut can vary in lengths and layers.
A V haircut can vary in lengths and layers.

The use of layers in haircuts can vary considerably by the individual getting the haircut as well as the stylist. It's a good idea to talk with your stylist about the look that he feels would be best for you. In some cases, your hair texture and the amount of hair you have will determine how much layering is actually appropriate. You may also want to ask your stylist about undergoing coloring services at the same time that you get your layered haircut, as the combination of well-placed color and layers can alter your appearance dramatically.

Layered haircuts give hair more body and structure.
Layered haircuts give hair more body and structure.

If you have long hair that you don't wish to cut, adding some long layers can give you a more put-together appearance. If you have short hair or you don't mind a lot of layers, you can ask your stylist to cut face-framing layers that hit at points in your face that you want to accentuate. For example, if you want to highlight your cheekbones, your stylist can cut layers around your face that end at your cheekbones, drawing your attention to them.

Take the time to book a consultation with a hairdresser prior to actually going under the scissors. One helpful trick is to look online and in magazines for pictures of individuals who have similar features to your own, and then find a few that have a good layered haircut. You can print or cut out these photographs to show your hairdresser during your consultation. Although you may not be able to get an exact duplicate of the haircut you admire, your stylist will be able to understand the look you want and let you know if it is is possible. If you ask for a style unsuited to you, your stylist can then suggest alternatives.

Discussion Comments

serenesurface

I have a long layered haircut with side swept bangs. I've tried many different haircuts over the years but this haircut looks best on me. I like long hair but if it doesn't have layers then it looks very dull and boring. Layers add movement to hair and I think that it defines my face as well.

My only issue is that I hate layers made with a razor. I had this type of haircut once and since I have thick, dense hair, the layers made with a razor literally turned into a million flyaways. I could not step out of the house without using hair spray or hair wax. Ever since, I specifically request that my layers to be made with scissors.

fBoyle

@SteamLouis-- You're right, there are many different types of layered haircuts. I think it's okay to just take a picture with you and show it to the hair stylist. You don't necessarily have to know the exact names of the haircuts. Just show the picture and describes the appearance and length you're looking for.

Since you said that you want a short layered cut, I think you want a type of bob cut. There are different types of bob cuts. For example, the concave or graduated bob is short in the back and long in the front. It also has layers on the top and back. A typical bob on the other hand has the same length all around with layers. An asymmetrical bob has one side that's longer than the other. If you're not sure which would suit you best, the hair stylist can help you decide and give you recommendations.

SteamLouis

I want to get a short layered haircut but I'm not sure how to describe it. There are so many different types of short layered cuts. I have found a few pictures of haircuts I like but I don't even know what they're called.

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    • A V haircut can vary in lengths and layers.
      By: Marsy
      A V haircut can vary in lengths and layers.
    • Layered haircuts give hair more body and structure.
      By: Sergey Nivens
      Layered haircuts give hair more body and structure.