How to Cut Bangs at Home, According to Professional Hairstylists

So, you want to learn how to cut bangs. You’ve scoured the internet for all the reference photos, found the best bangs for your face shape, and now it’s time to DIY. But before you pick up the scissors, you’ll definitely want to read these guidelines first. Whether it’s a low-maintenance style like wispy bangs or something more trendy like curtain bangs, it’s no secret that fringe requires precision and upkeep. But don’t let these things intimidate you. According to professional hairstylists, cutting your own bangs can definitely be pulled off on your own.

“Totally, you can cut bangs at home” says John Frieda House of Frieda ambassador and celebrity hairstylist Laura Polko. “If you aren’t feeling that confident about it, maybe seek professional help, but if you are, then you can definitely do it yourself.”

If you’re a bangs newbie, hairstylist Jennifer Korab recommends getting your hair cut by a professional first. However, if you are unable to go in to the salon, it’s perfectly fine to try on your own. “If necessary you can cut your bangs at home,” she says. “I would recommend to start slowly, it’s better to cut less than to cut too much.”

Ready to get started? Ahead, everything you need to know on how to cut bangs.

Is it better to cut bangs wet or dry?

All hairstylists agree: Cut your bangs dry. Do not cut them wet, because water can create “shrinkage,” which will completely change the look of your bangs when dried.

“First, it is important for any kind of bangs to make sure you do not start with super wet hair,” says Polko. “If you cut your hair when it is wet, it will shrink up and you will get a much different look when you dry it.” Instead, Polko recommends blow drying hair before cutting, especially for wispy bangs and curtain bangs. “When it comes to bangs, every millimeter counts, and if you cut wet and then dry you will lose length and won’t be happy with the outcome. Especially if you have any texture to your hair.”

Korab agrees, adding that you’ll want to cut your hair in its natural state. You don’t wear your hair wet, so why would you cut them wet? “For cutting bangs at home, I recommend to cut them dry, this way you know where they will sit,” she says. “If you choose to cut them wet, keep in mind as the hair dries, it will shrink up.”

What scissors should I use to cut bangs?

Standard shears are best for cutting bangs. Ken Paves, brand ambassador of Hairdo, says you can easily find hair cutting scissors at any drug store or beauty supply store. “They are much sharper and have finer blades than office or kitchen shears so please be careful,” he says.

“Stay away from thinning shears; standard shears or hair cutting scissors are best when cutting bangs,” says Polko.

What is the easiest way to cut bangs?

The best method for cutting bangs depends on the kind of style you want. To start, you’ll want to determine how far back your bangs will be cut. Paves recommends putting a comb across the tip of your head, from back to front.