Removing Weight from Hair Without Thinning Shears

There are several needs that are common among stylists and hairdressers, and one of the most common for varying clients is the need to remove weight from the hair during a cut. And while most stylists naturally think of thinning shears as their first and most robust option for accomplishing this task, what about if thinning shears aren't available to you for a given cut, or your client does not prefer them?

At Scissor Mall, while we offer a huge range of thinning shears for any such need, we also offer several other hair shear options that are often perfect for removing weight from hair, including point cutting shear options like the Dynasty Blush and more. Here are both some shear and cut style options for removing weight during a cut if thinning shears are not available or not desired by the client, ensuring you can accomplish this goal no matter your tools.

Point Cutting Shears/Techniques

If thinning shears are not an option for your client's hair, point cutting shears can be an excellent alternative. These types of shears have a pointed tip that allows for precise and controlled cutting, which can be very helpful when trying to remove weight from the hair.

Point cutting techniques involve holding the hair at an angle and snipping into it rather than making straight cuts across. By doing so, you create texture and layers in the hair, which can reduce weight while still maintaining the overall length. This technique is particularly useful for thick or coarse hair.

Slide Cutting Shears/Techniques

Another great option for removing weight from hair is using slide cutting shears. These types of shears have a convex edge that allows for smooth and effortless gliding through the hair, creating seamless layers and reducing bulk. This technique involves holding the hair at an angle and sliding the blade down along with the hair to achieve a gradual trim.

Slide cutting can be especially useful for clients with curly or wavy hair, as it can help to distribute weight more evenly and create a natural-looking finish. It also allows for greater control over the amount of hair being removed, making it ideal for precision cuts.

One of the great things about slide cutting is the fact that it can be done on both dry and wet hair, giving stylists more flexibility in their cutting techniques. However, it is important to note that this technique does require some practice and proper training to master.

Slice Cutting

One option that's similar to slide cutting, but involves reversing its process and cutting from the inside-out, is slice cutting. This technique can also effectively remove weight from hair, especially for those with thick and heavy hair.

With slice cutting, the shears are held at an angle and small sections of hair are sliced off gently in a saw-like motion. The result is soft layers and texture that reduce density without sacrificing length.

Layering

We've alluded to layering a couple times here, and it's one of the broadest and most effective techniques for removing weight from hair. But keep in mind that not all layering is created equal, and some methods may suit certain clients better than others.

For example, long layers are ideal for clients with thick or heavy hair as they can reduce volume while retaining length. On the other hand, short layers work best for finer hair types as they create more texture and movement. It's important to assess the client's hair type and desired look before deciding on the best layering method.

Another important layering technique is internal layering, which involves cutting layers within the interior of the hair rather than just on the outermost layers. This can be particularly useful for clients with thick, heavy hair as it helps to remove bulk and create a more manageable style.

Products to Consider

In addition to shear and cut styles, there are also products that can help to remove weight from hair. These include volumizing sprays and dry shampoos, which can add texture and lift to the roots of the hair.

There are also lightweight serums and oils that can be applied to the ends of the hair to reduce bulk and create a smoother finish. It's important to choose products that work well with the client's hair type and consider how they will interact with other styling techniques.

While thinning shears are a go-to tool for removing weight from hair, there are many alternatives that can be just as effective. By using different shear types or techniques such as point cutting, slide cutting, slice cutting, or layering, and considering the use of products, stylists can achieve the desired result for their clients without compromising on the quality of the cut. Ultimately, it's important to be flexible and adaptable as a stylist, using different tools and techniques to meet the specific needs and preferences of each individual client.

With Scissor Mall's wide range of high-quality shears, you have all the resources you need to provide top-notch haircuts for your clients. Contact us today to learn more or select the ideal shears for your needs!