When it comes to the world of layers, it’s hard to know exactly what you want or need, and how to explain it to your stylist. With the help of celebrity stylists Harry Josh and Ryan Richman, we’ve rounded up everything you need to go into your appointment prepared!
CONSULTATION
“Layers are great when you don’t want to sacrifice length but wanna mix it up,” says Josh. “Research is key when consulting with your hairstylist and if you’re able to find an actual photo as a visual reference it’s always great.”
Richman agrees, adding that “if you’re looking for a change to your hair sometimes all it takes is 1/2″-1″ taken off in the right place. When speaking with your stylist, pictures go a long way. Always find pictures of people with similar hair color to your own. Blondes always have more dimension and the texture is more visible than that of a brunette. The better the picture matches your hair color and face shape the better you’ll be able to visualize what you will look like with a similar cut.”
KNOW YOUR HAIR TYPE
“The layering of your hair should be the result of a combination of how much hair you have (density), what type of hair you have (fine/thick), and what type of haircut you have (long/short),” says Josh.
FINE
“I find that most women with fine hair types dont necessarily need layering alone. They may find great results with the proper type of texturizing, whether this be using ‘thinning/notching sheers,’ razors or different techniques with a traditional blade. Each type of tool leaves the hair with a different texture and can really change the type of hair you think you have drastically,” says Josh.
Finer hair types are often more fragile. If your hair feels limp and you struggle to maintain body, chances are your hair is fine.
COARSE
Coarser hair types can easily stand up on their own and take the shape of a haircut. If you’ve got hair that seems strong and the individual strands are thick, you probably have coarse hair.
LANGUAGE
“Allow yourself to really observe different layering techniques as some girls may just need layering around the face, others may need layers throughout their length, and some just on the very ends. Most types of layering are specific to each client, which is why it’s important to consult with a trusted hairstylist who knows your hair well,” says Josh.
KEY TERMS
Richman goes on to tell us, “It can be very difficult to explain to your hairstylist exactly what you want from your layered haircut. Here’s a few words to help you explain to your stylist exactly what you are looking for…
BLUNT
Blunt often refers to the longest lengths of the hair or the ends of your hair being cut straight across with no layering. Great for fine hair to make your hair full.
UNDERCUT 
Usually used when talking about shorter hair styles. For long hair this technique is great for creating a little movement in the hair and removes some bulk on the ends of the hair. This is done by cutting a small section of hair, usually at the nape of the neck, slightly shorter than the rest of length. This takes away the blunt edge and creates a natural soft movement in the ends of the hair.
TEXTURE 
Your stylist views texture as movement, the removal of weight, piecey-ness, or thinned out. This term is great for people with thick hair looking to add movement to the hair and remove the bulk.
SHAG
Tons of layers! Major Texture!
VOLUME/BODY/FULLNESS 
We can add volume anywhere. That’s our job. Volume doesn’t just refer to the top of your head.
FACIAL FRAMING 
This refers to the hair from your ears forward.” 
STYLING
“To me facial framing is the most important part of a long layered haircut. When you look in the mirror all you see is the front of your hair. Usually a few layers around the face is all someone needs to feel better about their long lifeless hair. Shorter layers around the face, starting as high up as the cheek bones, will add volume and fullness around the face. Layering only the very bottom of your facial framing will make your face appear longer and slim.” Richman goes on to explain, “If you only learn one thing from your stylist, learn how to style the front of your hair. The slightest bend or wave added to the front of your hair is all you need to turn your undone do into the perfect style.”
Need a few quick tips on styling? Be sure to check out our bent waves tutorial for a quick hair update!
If you’re still feeling unsure, Josh assures us that, “nowadays there are so many resources for specificity in what you want if you really look for it. You can find beauty blogs and websites with great tips and tricks, or you can take an educational route and teach yourself some technical terms on many online videos that demonstrate haircuts and styles of your choice. “