How to Layer Hair

Whether you have long, medium or short locks, layers can add a fresh, new feel to any hairstyle. Once you've made the decision to try a new style, you should understand how to layer hair, the benefits of having layers and if the style is right for you.

Simply put, hair layers give an illusion of length and volume: length is achieved with longer pieces of hair and volume with shorter layers. The first layer usually starts below eye level, and then they are appropriately placed throughout the rest of the hair length. The most important aspect of layering your hair is communicating with your hairdresser. You must be sure that you and your stylist are on the same page to ensure you're happy with the final product.

What Type of Hair Is Ideal for Layering?

Certain hair styles are more suitable for a layered look than others. The layered style looks best on long, straight or wavy hair. Stylists prefer to create shorter layers on top, with multiple layers going downwards. If layers are properly applied to wavy hair, they help to enhance the natural waves and create a more harmonious, cascading look throughout the hair. Straight layered hair is ideal for this cut because it is easy to maintain and style.

Although a layered look can revitalize any length of hair, not all hair textures are ideal for the style. When fine or thin hair is layered improperly, it can make the hair look thinner. When coarse hair is layered incorrectly, it can look ragged and even choppy. Extremely curly hair does not layer well either because the curls tend to tighten and mess up the layered look. One of the biggest mistakes a hairdresser can make is layering curly hair improperly, leaving it with a triangle shape. Curly hair requires a special type of layering that is different than traditional layering. Most stylists prefer to give minimal and longer layers, mainly tapering towards the end. This style is easier to maintain and manage.

What Are the Benefits of Layering Hair?

The top benefit is that hair layers give instant volume. Unlike one-length hairstyles that can look lifeless and dull, the layered look provides bouncy movement to your hair. You can also get dramatic shapes with certain types of hairstyles and textures, like the bob or soft bangs.

Hair layers also create a great canvas for highlighting and hair color. You have the option of adding color to as much hair as you want, whether it is the crown, the tips or one specific layer. This contrasting effect yields unique results, as portions of your hair catch the light when your hair moves.

Some areas of your head benefit from layering techniques more than others. Try to stick to hair layers throughout the crown, along the top of your head and through the upper part of the forehead, specifically the bangs. Avoid layering the nape of your neck, the side of your head above your ears, along your hair part and near the very ends where hair is not thick enough and may cause the hairstyle to lose its shape.

Is Layered Hair Right for You?

It's important to look at several different styles before you get your hair layered. Sift through beauty magazines, surf the Internet and watch television to find layered looks you like. Once you have found a few examples, print them out and bring them to your hairstylist. Before the stylist begins to cut your hair, discuss if your hair is the right texture, type and condition to create the specific layered hair style you have chosen. Unless you and your hairstylist communicate clearly, your expectations for the hairstyle may fall short.

Be aware that it is often impossible to recreate a hairstyle exactly how it looks on another individual. Each person's hair type, texture and condition are different, so, as hair grows out, the style will constantly change.

How Do I Manage Layered Hair?

While some layered styles only require a quick wash and blow dry, layers need a little extra attention. Visit your hairstylist for a trim every 8 to 12 weeks to keep the cut's shape. If you have brittle hair, regular conditioning will keep your hair from forming wispy, split ends.

If you grow bored with your layers, you can grow the locks out. Unfortunately, this process takes a bit longer than the initial cut. Leave your bottom layer the same length as you allow the shorter hair layers to grow. Be sure to get regular trims to avoid split ends.