10 Easy Steps to Cut Your Own Pixie Cut

A woman with a pixie cut

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Are you ready for a bold and chic transformation? Cutting your own hair into a pixie cut can be a liberating and empowering experience. Whether you’re looking to revamp your look, embrace a low-maintenance style, or simply experiment with a new haircut, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to achieve a stunning pixie cut at home. Join us on this hair-cutting adventure and discover the art of self-styling with confidence and precision.

Before embarking on this transformative journey, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools. You’ll need sharp hairdressing scissors, a comb, sectioning clips, a spray bottle filled with water, and a mirror. Ensure your hair is clean, freshly washed, and towel-dried to provide a smooth and manageable canvas for your haircut. Sectioning your hair into quadrants will enhance control and precision during the cutting process. Begin by dividing your hair into four sections: two at the front and two at the back, secured with sectioning clips. This organized approach will prevent any unruly strands from interfering with your meticulous work.

Gathering Essential Tools

Assembling the necessary tools is crucial for achieving a precise and professional-looking pixie cut at home. Here’s a comprehensive list of essential items you’ll need:

Sharp Hairdressing Scissors

Invest in a high-quality pair of hairdressing scissors that are sharp enough to cut through hair smoothly and cleanly. Avoid using household scissors, as they are duller and can create uneven cuts.

Thinning Scissors

While thinning scissors are not necessary, they can be helpful for creating texture and removing bulk, especially in thick hair.

Wide-Toothed Comb

A wide-toothed comb will help you section your hair and ensure even distribution during cutting.

Hair Clips

Hair clips are essential for sectioning hair and keeping it out of the way while you work.

Barber’s Cape or Old Towel

To protect your clothes and surroundings from hair clippings, use a barber’s cape or an old towel.

Spray Bottle

A spray bottle filled with water will help keep your hair moist and prevent it from becoming too dry during cutting.

Mirror (Optional)

A large mirror will help you see the back of your head and ensure an even cut.

Essential Tool	Purpose
Sharp Hairdressing Scissors	Cutting hair smoothly and cleanly
Thinning Scissors	Creating texture and removing bulk
Wide-Toothed Comb	Sectioning hair and ensuring even distribution
Hair Clips	Sectioning and keeping hair out of the way
Spray Bottle	Keeping hair moist during cutting

Preparing Your Hair for Cutting

Sectioning Your Hair

Proper sectioning is crucial for achieving a balanced and even pixie cut. Begin by parting your hair down the middle, from your forehead to the nape of your neck. This divides your hair into two symmetrical halves. Next, create a horizontal section at the crown of your head, separating the top portion from the rest. Secure each section with clips or hair ties to keep it out of the way as you work.

Trimming the Sides and Back

Starting with the sides of your head, use a sharp pair of shears to trim the hair gradually, working from the bottom up. Hold the scissors diagonally and point them slightly downwards to avoid creating blunt edges. Continue trimming up the sides, maintaining a consistent length and shape. For the back, comb your hair downwards and use the shears to cut a clean, straight line at the desired length.

Establishing the Basic Length

To determine the basic length of your pixie cut, focus on the top section of your hair. Comb the hair forward and hold it between your thumb and forefinger. The distance from the roots to the tips will give you an indication of the desired length. Use the shears to trim the hair to this length, starting from the front and working towards the back to establish a balanced silhouette.

Section	Trimming Method	Recommendation
Sides	Gradual trimming from bottom up	Maintain consistent length and shape
Back	Clean, straight line cut	Trim to desired length
Top	Hold between fingers for length reference	Trim to establish balanced silhouette

Sectioning for Precision

The key to achieving a flawless pixie cut lies in precise sectioning. This process divides the hair into manageable sections, allowing you to focus on each area individually and create a balanced, cohesive result.

Horizontal Sectioning

Start by creating a horizontal parting, dividing the hair from the crown to the back of the head. This will create a top and bottom section.

Vertical Sectioning

Next, use vertical partings to divide the hair into front, side, and back sections. This will create a cross-like shape with the horizontal parting as the center. The front section will run from the forehead to the crown, the side sections will extend from the temples to the ears, and the back section will encompass the hair behind the ears.

Sub-Sectioning

For even greater precision, you can sub-section within each of the main sections. For instance, in the front section, you could create two or three vertical sub-sections to control the length and layers around the face. Similarly, in the side sections, you could create horizontal sub-sections to achieve a graduated or stacked effect. The more sub-sections you create, the finer the level of control you will have over the final shape and texture of the cut.

Section	Purpose
Top	Control height and volume
Bottom	Establish the overall length and shape
Front	Frame the face and create bangs
Side	Define the profile and create layers
Back	Remove bulk and create a nape shape

Creating the Basic Shape

Creating the basic shape of a pixie cut involves sectioning and cutting the hair in specific layers to build the overall structure. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve the basic shape:

1. Section the Hair

Divide the hair into three sections: front, top, and back. Use clips or hair ties to hold each section in place.

2. Cut the Nape

Start by cutting the hair at the nape. Hold a section of hair horizontally and cut it at a 45-degree angle, keeping the scissors slightly elevated. Gradually work your way up the nape, creating a slightly angled shape.

3. Cut the Sides

Move to the sides of the head. Hold a section of hair vertically and cut it at a 45-degree angle, again keeping the scissors slightly elevated. Continue cutting upward in small sections, following the shape of the nape.

4. Cut the Top

The top section is where you will create the “volume” of the pixie cut. Divide the top section into two smaller sections: the crown and the sides.

Crown:

Hold a section of hair vertically and lift it slightly.
Cut the hair at a 90-degree angle to the head, creating a short, choppy layer.
Gradually work your way around the crown, cutting short layers to build volume and texture.

Sides:

Hold a section of hair diagonally and cut it at a 45-degree angle, following the shape of the sides.
Continue cutting upward in small sections, creating a more defined and polished look.

Refine the Layers

With the initial chopping complete, it’s time to refine the layers and shape the pixie cut. This requires meticulous precision:

Define the Front Layer: Using sharp scissors, gently trim the front layer to gradually blend into the rest of the hair. Keep the length of this layer slightly longer, around 2-3 inches, for a more flattering effect.
Feather the Sides: Section off the hair on the sides and begin trimming from the bottom upwards, using a slicing technique. This creates a feathered effect that adds volume and a touch of elegance to the cut.
Point-Cutting: For a more dramatic and edgy look, employ the point-cutting technique. Hold the scissors vertically and flick them through the ends of the hair, creating tiny points that add definition and texture.
Blending the Layers: Use scissors to blend the different layers seamlessly. Start from the shortest layer at the back and gradually work towards the longer layers at the front. This creates a cohesive and polished appearance.
Use the Razor for a Professional Finish: For a barbershop-quality finish, consider using a hair razor. Hold the razor parallel to the hair shaft and gently scrape away any stray hairs or split ends. This helps remove unevenness and provides a clean and polished look.

Tame the Bangs

Once you’ve established the basic shape of your pixie cut, it’s time to tame the bangs. This step is crucial for achieving a polished and flattering look.

1. Section Off the Bangs

Use a comb to create a triangle-shaped section of hair at the front of your head. The width of the triangle should match the desired length of your bangs.

2. Hold the Scissors Parallel

Hold the scissors parallel to the floor, with the blades pointing towards your forehead. This ensures a straight, clean cut.

3. Cut Gradually

Start by cutting small sections of hair from the middle of the triangle, working your way outwards. Be patient and take your time, as rushing can lead to uneven bangs.

4. Check the Length

After each cut, hold the hair up to your eyebrow to check the length. Aim for a length that flatters your face shape and complements the rest of your pixie cut.

5. Cut the Tapered Sides

Once the central bangs are cut, use the scissors to taper the sides by cutting away small sections of hair at an angle. This creates a more refined and flattering look.

6. Blend and Refine

To blend the bangs with the rest of the hair, use a pair of thinning shears or a razor to remove any harsh edges. You can also use a comb to gently tease and soften the bangs, creating a more voluminous and natural appearance.

Method	Effect
Trim gradually	Blends layers seamlessly
Slicing technique	Feathers and adds volume	Point-cutting	Adds definition and texture
Razor finish	Removes unevenness and polishes

TIP:
To create a choppy, edgy look, cut the bangs with a razor or texturizing shears.

Styling Your Pixie Cut

Once you’ve created your pixie cut, you’ll need to style it to achieve the desired look. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you style your pixie like a pro:

1. Use the Right Products

Start with products that are designed for short hair, such as volumizing shampoos and conditioners. Mousse, gel, and wax can also help to define and control your style.

2. Blow Dry Your Hair

Blow drying your hair is a great way to add volume and shape your pixie cut. Use a round brush to create volume at the roots and use a nozzle attachment to direct the airflow.

3. Create Texture

Texturizing your hair can give your pixie cut a more lived-in, undone look. Use a texturizing spray or cream to create texture and separation.

4. Use a Root Lifter

A root lifter is a volumizing product that can be applied to your roots to create the illusion of fuller hair. Use a small amount of root lifter and concentrate it on the areas where you want more volume.

5. Backcomb for Volume

Backcombing is a technique that can be used to create extra volume at the roots. Use a fine-toothed comb to gently tease your hair at the roots, taking care not to overdo it.

6. Use Hairspray

Hairspray is essential for setting your pixie cut and keeping it in place. Use a medium-hold hairspray to hold your style without making it stiff or crunchy.

7. Experiment with Different Styling Tools

There are a variety of styling tools that you can use to create different looks with your pixie cut. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Flat Iron

A flat iron can be used to sleek down your hair and create a polished look. Use a low heat setting to avoid damage to your hair.

Curling Iron or Wand

A curling iron or wand can be used to create curls or waves in your pixie cut. Use a small-barrelled iron or wand to create tight curls or use a larger-barrelled iron or wand to create loose waves.

Diffuser

A diffuser is a hair dryer attachment that can be used to create volume and enhance natural curls or waves.

Maintaining Your Pixie Cut

Regular Trims

Maintaining a pixie cut requires regular trims every 4-6 weeks. These trims will remove any split ends, prevent hair breakage, and keep the cut looking sharp and tidy.

Washing and Conditioning

Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner designed for short hair. Avoid over-washing, as it can strip your hair of its natural oils. Use a leave-in conditioner to keep your hair hydrated and prevent frizz.

Styling

Pixie cuts can be styled in a variety of ways. Use a styling cream or gel to add definition and hold. You can create a sleek look by blow-drying your hair straight, or add texture with a curling wand.

Styling Products

Experiment with different styling products to find what works best for your hair type. Pomades, waxes, and gels can add hold and shine, while mousses and volumizers can create texture and lift.

Product	Purpose
Pomade	Hold and shine
Wax	Texture and definition
Gel	Strong hold and sleekness
Mousse	Volume and texture
Volumizer	Lift and body

Stay True to Your Color

If you color your hair, touch up your roots every few weeks as they grow out. Keeping your hair color consistent will prevent a stark contrast between your natural hair and colored hair.

Protecting Your Hair From Damage

Limit the use of heat styling tools, as excessive heat can damage your hair. Use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying or using a curling iron to minimize damage.

Embrace the Growth

As your hair grows out, the shape of your pixie cut will change. Don’t be afraid to embrace the growth and try different styling techniques to accommodate the longer length.

Touch-Ups

In between regular trims, you can touch up your pixie cut by trimming any stray hairs or uneven sections. Do this carefully, as you don’t want to cut too much hair off.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Uneven Lengths

Hold a mirror behind your head and check the length of each side. Use a razor comb to trim any uneven sections and blend them together.

2. Too Much Volume

Use thinning shears to remove excess weight and bulk. Focus on the top and sides of the head where volume tends to accumulate.

3. Awkward Shape

Check the overall shape of the cut in front and back mirrors. Use a razor comb or shears to refine the lines and give the cut a more polished look.

4. Blunt Bangs

If the bangs are too blunt, use a barber’s comb and scissors to cut away any straight edges. Gradual layers will create a more natural and flattering look.

5. Too Short Layers

If you accidentally cut the layers too short, try adding some weight back by texturizing the hair with scissors or a razor comb.

6. Hair Sticking Out

Use a small amount of gel or hairspray to tame any flyaways or wispy hairs that are sticking out.

7. Visible Lines

If the cut lines are too visible, use a razor comb to blend them together. Use light strokes and hold the razor at a shallow angle.

8. Overgrown Pixie Cut

To fix an overgrown pixie cut, trim the hair evenly around the head. Keep the length slightly longer to avoid cutting it too short.

9. Styling a Pixie Cut with Long Bangs

To style a pixie cut with long bangs, use a blow dryer with a round brush to create volume at the roots. Use a small amount of hairspray or mousse to hold the style in place. You can also experiment with different partings to change the look.

Time	Description
5-10 minutes	Check for uneven lengths and trim as needed.
3-5 minutes	Use thinning shears to remove excess weight and bulk.
2-3 minutes	Use a razor comb or shears to refine the lines and shape.

Round and Square Face Shapes

If you have a round face, a pixie cut with lots of volume on top and shorter sides can help elongate your face.
For a square face, a pixie cut with soft, layered bangs and longer, side-swept layers can help soften your angular features.

Oval and Heart Face Shapes

If you have an oval face, you can wear almost any pixie cut style.
For a heart-shaped face, a pixie cut with bangs that sweep across your forehead can help balance out your wider forehead and narrower chin.

Diamond and Triangle Face Shapes

If you have a diamond-shaped face, a pixie cut with longer layers on the sides and shorter layers on top can help widen your narrow forehead and balance out your wider cheekbones.
For a triangle-shaped face, a pixie cut with side-swept bangs and longer layers in the back can help balance out your wider forehead and narrower chin.

How To Cut Your Own Hair In A Pixie Cut

Cutting your own hair in a pixie cut can be a daunting task. But with the proper planning and preparation, you can achieve a salon-quality cut at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Gather your tools. You’ll need a pair of sharp hair scissors, a comb, a mirror, and a hair clip.
Wash and dry your hair. This will help you see your hair’s natural texture and make it easier to cut.
Comb your hair and part it down the middle. This will help you create a balanced cut.
Start cutting the back of your hair. Use the scissors to cut small sections of hair, working from the bottom up. Be sure to hold the scissors parallel to your head and cut in a straight line.
Continue cutting the sides of your hair. Once you’ve cut the back of your hair, you can start cutting the sides. Use the same technique as you did for the back, but be sure to angle the scissors slightly towards the front of your head.
Cut the top of your hair. Once you’ve cut the back and sides of your hair, you can cut the top. Use the scissors to cut small sections of hair, working from the front to the back. Be sure to hold the scissors parallel to your head and cut in a straight line.
Check your work. Once you’ve cut your hair, check it in the mirror to make sure you’re happy with the results. If you’re not happy with something, you can always go back and make adjustments.