What is the ideal angle for cutting the hair during a layered haircut?

In a layered haircut, the goal is to create dimension and movement within the hair by removing bulk and varying the lengths of the hair strands. The ideal angle for cutting hair during a layered haircut is 45 degrees. This angle allows the stylist to achieve soft layers that blend well, enhancing the natural fall of the hair. When cutting at a 45-degree angle, the stylist can create a shape that adds height and volume at the crown of the head while maintaining length throughout the lower sections. This technique is fundamental in modern hairstyling and is widely taught in barbering and cosmetology programs.

Other angles, such as 90 degrees, would create a more uniform, blunt cut rather than layers, and straight-across cuts would eliminate layering altogether, resulting in a more traditional, one-length haircut. The 60-degree angle is less common in layering techniques and may not yield the desired softness and movement typical of layered styles. Hence, cutting at a 45-degree angle remains the optimal choice for effectively achieving a layered haircut.