How to Easily Taper Cut Afro Hair at Home | 6 Steps

How to easily taper cut Afro hair at home | 6 steps. This will not be a challenge for you any longer if you follow closely these 6 steps I have broken down for you in this article. My typical canvas is clean dry combed hair. Dry cutting does best on clean or recently washed hair with no products in. With this canvas your clipper is going to love it and you are sure to get better results instantly. So without further delay lets go straight to our steps.

Discuss the Type of Cut You Are Going For

Let’s make something clear first. Before starting a cut we have to know the kind of look we are going for. Is it a super-duper short taper or a long one? Is it a fro hawk, even all round

Photos play a big role. Use photos to discuss in depth  with the person cutting your hair so that you are in the same page. You could choose from styling videos or photos. What makes you look and feel comfortable is what you want at the end of the day.

It’s common to hear client’s say, “I don’t like the way she cut my hair.’’ It might be because some barbers don’t pay attention. So it’s important to listen to the client and then emulate the styles she or he wants.

Have a Map Or Profile In Your Head

To break down any haircut, it’s important to pay more attention to this area (head map) when executing any hair cutting service other wise you may get lost. The map or profile depends majorly on which kind of hair cut you are going for since different section patterns lead to different styles.

Decide how short you want the sides and back to be. Tapered cuts typically involve using different clipper guard sizes, gradually increasing in length as you move upward.

Isolate The Tools You’ll need:

1. Clippers with guard attachments (various sizes)
2. Comb
3. Mirror (preferably a handheld and a larger wall-mounted mirror) Mirror. Position the larger mirror in front of you and the handheld mirror behind you. This setup will allow you to see the back of your head while using the clippers.
4. Scissors (for blending if desired)
5. Towel or barber cape (to protect your clothes)

Start with the longest guard

Attach the longest guard to your clippers and begin by trimming the sides and back of your head. Start from the bottom and work your way up, going against the direction of hair growth. Keep the clippers parallel to the scalp for an even cut.

Blend the lengths

Switch to a slightly shorter guard and work your way around the sides and back, blending the lengths between the different guards. Be cautious when transitioning from one guard to another, as this is crucial for achieving a gradual fade.

Trim the top

Use scissors or clippers without a guard to trim the hair on top of your head. Determine how much length you want to keep and carefully cut it evenly.

Finishing touches

1. Check and adjust. Take breaks to check your progress using both mirrors. Make any necessary adjustments or further blending to ensure an even and desired taper.
2. Clean up the hairline around your neck and ears using a smaller guard or no guard at all. You can also use a razor for a more precise finish, but be cautious when using sharp objects near the skin.
3. Clean up and style. Brush off any loose hair and clean up the area. Style your hair as desired using hair products suitable for your hair type.

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, it’s always best to seek the assistance of a professional barber or stylist.

The video below demonstrates how I tapered cut afro hair on a loved one at home who was transitioning to natural hair.

For any further knowledge or constructive criticism, your comments are welcome in the comments section below.