1. Layers
Every cut falls under three categories: layered, one-length, or a combination of both. Layers help lessen density and create movement. One-length cuts, on the other hand, add weight. To avoid confusion, double-check with your stylist. Confirm where you want your first layer to start.
2. Overdirecting
This is a cutting technique where hair is lifted and cut over the head to create extra body and volume. If you like big, “Texas Hair”, overdirecting is for you, honey.
3. Thinning
Thinning is ideal for those with thick, dense tresses who want to eliminate bulkiness. By relying on thinning shears or a razor, the process creates super-fine layers and adds dimension. To thin with regular shears, also known as "slithering," we slide an open set of scissors along the shaft. It looks really cool when we do this, very Edward Scissorhandsy!
4. Highlights
Highlights refer to a process traditionally done with decolorizer(bleach) and foils. Highlights can brighten the appearance of a dull color. Talk with your stylist about adding a few, or a lot! Warning-They can be addictive. Don’t forget to balance them out with lowlights after 2-3 sessions!
5. Decolorizer
Basically, it’s bleach. We just say decolorizer because that’s what the big money hair industry and professionals have taught us to say. We also refer to it as Lightener. Saying “bleach” just sounds like we are straight outta Steel Magnolias, y’all. That’s not a bad thing, there Sugar. ;)
6. New Growth
We call “roots” new growth. Now, while there is nothing wrong with growing up in a run down trailer park, we just prefer to say new growth. “Did you notice the color variation between Becky’s highlights and her new growth” sounds better than “Hey! Did ya see the crack whore roots on Becky???”
7. Ombre
Pronunciation - Ohhm-bray. It is French for having colors or tones that shade into each other. Traditional American Ombre means that you have darker colors towards your scalp and gradually fade into lighter shades. Many women confuse this with Balayage. See below, you bleachy, rooty beauty!