Foundations of Layering Hair - 3 Different Elevations and How They Effect Weight Balance

Summary

In this tutorial, Andrew Carruthers demonstrates how different elevations in hair cutting influence the distribution of weight and shape. Using a mannequin head, he showcases three key techniques: vertical (high elevation), 90 degrees to the head shape (natural curvature), and horizontal (low elevation). Each method alters the density and silhouette of the final cut, helping stylists understand how elevation affects body, volume, and balance. Carruthers provides valuable insights for working with various hair types, from fine to thick, and encourages experimenting with these techniques for better control and more tailored results.

Takeaways

• 😀 Elevation in hair cutting dramatically affects the distribution of weight and the overall shape of the haircut.
• 😀 The tutorial demonstrates three different elevation techniques: high (vertical), medium (following the head shape), and low (horizontal) elevation.
• 😀 High elevation (90 degrees vertical) removes weight from the top, creating lightness at the surface while maintaining density at the perimeter.
• 😀 Medium elevation (90 degrees to the head shape) follows the natural curvature of the head, resulting in balanced layering and even weight distribution from top to bottom.
• 😀 Low elevation (90 degrees horizontal) can create more weight at the top while reducing bulk in the perimeter, useful for certain hair types and styles.
• 😀 Using proper sectioning is critical for comparison and precision; the back is divided into three similar sections while avoiding sides due to density differences.
• 😀 Finger angle during cutting also affects the shape and texture, and slight adjustments can significantly change the final result.
• 😀 Fine hair benefits from high elevation for lightness on top while preserving density at the perimeter, enhancing body and fullness.
• 😀 Thick or coarse hair may benefit from low or medium elevation to reduce excessive volume at the top while maintaining a balanced silhouette.
• 😀 Experimenting with a mannequin head allows stylists to visualize how different elevations and finger angles influence weight distribution and final style.
• 😀 Understanding elevation and weight distribution is essential for customizing haircuts to client needs and managing different hair textures effectively.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the demonstration in this video?

The demonstration aims to show how different hair elevation techniques affect the distribution of weight and shape in layered haircuts.

How many sections does Andrew Carruthers divide the mannequin head into, and why?

He divides the mannequin head into three sections in the back to allow a clear comparison of different elevations without interference from the changing density and hairline on the sides.

What type of elevation is used on the front right section, and what is its effect?

The front right section uses a very high elevation (90 degrees vertical), which removes weight from the top surface, softens the shape, and leaves density towards the perimeter.

How is the center section cut differently from the first section?

The center section follows the natural curvature of the head with 90-degree elevation to the head shape, creating a balanced layering pattern with even distribution of weight from top to bottom.

What does a 90-degree horizontal elevation do in the back left section?

Holding the hair parallel to the floor with 90-degree horizontal elevation creates a slightly graduated layer, keeping some weight at the top while removing density from the middle to the bottom of the section.

Why does Andrew emphasize clipping out previously cut hair before moving to the next section?

Clipping out previously cut hair prevents accidentally including it in the next section, which could distort the comparison and affect the accuracy of the layering demonstration.

How does finger angle influence the shape of a haircut according to the video?

The finger angle changes the layering effect and the distribution of weight, impacting the final shape and texture of the haircut in combination with elevation.

Which elevation technique is most suitable for fine hair wanting lightness at the top but density at the perimeter?

High elevation (90 degrees vertical) is ideal for fine hair because it creates lightness on the surface while maintaining density at the perimeter.

Which elevation technique benefits thick or curly hair that tends to puff up at the top?

Low elevation or a combination that follows the head shape is better for thick or curly hair, as it keeps some weight at the top and reduces excessive volume in the center.

What is the overall takeaway regarding hair elevation in layering?

Different elevations significantly affect hair weight distribution, texture, and the final silhouette, so stylists should choose elevation based on hair type, desired shape, and density needs.

Why is practicing on a mannequin head recommended?

Practicing on a mannequin allows stylists to experiment with different elevations and finger angles safely, helping them understand how these factors affect layering before working on clients.