The men's comb over hairstyle is a classic, timeless look that can be customized to suit a variety of face shapes and personal styles. If you're a cosmetology student learning to cut hair, mastering the comb over cut is an essential skill. In this article, we'll provide step-by-step instructions for cutting a men's comb over, as well as recommendations for the types of hair shears and tools you'll need to create this stylish look.
When it comes to cutting men's hair, the comb over is a versatile and popular choice. Whether the client is looking for a shorter, more traditional comb over or a longer, more modern version, this style can be customized to suit their preferences. As a cosmetology student, it's important to have a thorough understanding of the cutting techniques and tools required to create a perfect comb over.
"Cutting a men's comb over hairstyle requires precision and attention to detail," says barber and stylist Jamie Rodriguez. "It's important to communicate with the client and understand their desired length and style before beginning the cut."
To begin the process, wash and dry the client's hair. "Clean, dry hair is much easier to work with," explains barber and owner of The Cuttery, Alex Hernandez. "It allows for a more accurate cut and makes styling the final look much easier."
Next, section the hair using clips or hair ties. The comb over style typically involves leaving a longer length of hair on top, so create a section on top of the head that is separated from the rest of the hair. "I like to use clips to section off the top portion of the hair," says Rodriguez. "This helps me to focus on cutting the sides and back first and then move on to the top section."
Determine the desired length of the comb over. This will depend on the client's preferences and face shape. For a shorter comb over, you can use a shorter guard on the clippers or scissors. For a longer comb over, you can use a longer guard or scissors. "I always ask my clients how they typically style their hair and what length they feel most comfortable with," says Hernandez. "This helps me to determine the best length for the cut."
Begin cutting the hair on the sides and back of the head. Use a guard or scissors to cut the hair to the desired length, blending it into the top section of hair. "I like to start at the bottom and work my way up, using the clippers to blend the hair into the top section," explains Rodriguez. "This creates a seamless transition and helps the final look to appear more natural."
Cut the top section of hair. Start at the front of the head and cut the hair in a diagonal direction towards the back of the head. This will create a graduated effect and help the comb over lay smoothly. "I find it helpful to use a comb to lift the hair as I cut," says Hernandez. "This allows me to see the length and shape of the cut more clearly and make any necessary adjustments."
Comb the hair forward and use a mirror to check for evenness. Make any necessary adjustments by cutting small sections of hair until you achieve the desired result. "I like to take my time with this step and make sure the cut is as even and symmetrical as possible," says Rodriguez. "It's all about paying attention to the details."
Style the comb over. Use a comb to create a deep side part and comb the hair over to the desired side. Use a pomade or wax to style the hair and create a defined look. "I always like to finish off a comb over with a bit of product to give it some hold and shine," says Hernandez. "It really helps to polish off the final look."
Finish the cut by trimming the neckline and any stray hairs. Use a trimmer or scissors to create a clean, defined neckline. "A clean neckline is essential for any haircut, but especially for a comb over," says Rodriguez. "It really helps to frame the face and complete the overall look."
Remember to always use proper cutting techniques, such as holding the scissors correctly and cutting hair in a smooth, fluid motion. It's also important to communicate with the client throughout the process to ensure you are creating the desired look. "I always encourage my students to ask questions and seek feedback from their clients," says Hernandez.
Now that you have a general understanding of the cutting process for a men's comb over haircut, let's discuss the types of hair shears that are necessary for this style. For a men's comb over haircut, it is important to have a variety of hair shears or scissors on hand. A good pair of thinning shears can be useful for blending the hair and creating a natural, graduated effect. Thinning shears have teeth on one blade, which allow you to remove bulk from the hair without cutting too much length. A pair of standard scissors with a pointed tip can also be helpful for precision cutting and creating clean lines. In terms of length, it is helpful to have scissors ranging from 4.5 inches to 6.5 inches, as this will allow you to customize the length of the comb over to the client's preferences. As for blade type, it is recommended to use a convex blade, which is a curved blade that is thinner at the edges and thicker in the middle. Convex blades allow for a clean, precise cut and can help to reduce hand fatigue during long cutting sessions. It is also important to choose a high-quality pair of scissors that are comfortable to hold and use. Investing in a good pair of scissors will not only result in better cuts, but it will also help to reduce the risk of hand strain and injury.
In conclusion, the men's comb over hairstyle is a classic and versatile look that can be customized to suit a variety of face shapes and personal styles. By following the steps and techniques outlined in this article, you should be well on your way to mastering the art of cutting a men's comb over. Remember to take your time and pay attention to the details, and don't be afraid to seek guidance from experienced professionals or ask your clients for feedback. With practice and dedication, you'll be able to create stunning comb over cuts that your clients will love.
As a cosmetology student, it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest cutting techniques and trends. By continuing to learn and grow as a stylist, you'll be able to offer a wide range of services to your clients and build a successful career in the beauty industry. We hope that this article has provided you with the knowledge and confidence you need to start cutting men's comb overs with ease. Happy styling!
