The Art of Undercut Hair Design: Think You Can Cut It?

An undercut haircut is a bold personal statement. When someone is requesting this cut they are ready to be seen and want to feel all eyes on them.

There is no room for error with a cut like this – because everyone will be looking at it.

Consider Face Shape

Face shape should always be a factor when guiding a client toward the cut they desire – but with an undercut it is especially important.

Any face shape can pull off an undercut, but the length of the remaining hair will be important in the same way it is for any cut. A rounder face always looks great with longer hair – the length helps to thin the face and bring out features, while those with a more defined bone structure can always pull off a super short cut all around.

Hair Texture

Another important factor is the client’s hair texture. While you should never push someone away from this cut due to their type of hair – it’s good to keep in mind (and let your client know beforehand) that undercuts remove weight and body – meaning they tend to work best on thicker hair.

Consider Positioning

Depending on your clients work situation, they may desire a more or less subtle positioning for their undercut.

Someone working in an office may not want their undercut to be a constant source of attention, but for the girl in a band – she may not have to worry about uptight coworkers or bosses.

Having an undercut on the side of one’s head guarantees it will always be noticeable, but a client can control when it is and isn’t visible if it is cut at the back of the head by the nape of the neck.

How Deep Should It Go?

Again, this depends on how subtle or extreme your client wants to go.

Some clients will ask for this cut for the asymmetrical look it provides, while others will desire the fully shaved look. If they are unsure how drastic they want it to look, start with a 4 – 6mm cut, and let them decide if they want to go shorter.

If a client ends up nervous about how deep their cut went – remind them how quickly it will grow out. If they see the finished look and end up wishing it was shorter, it’s an easy fix you can make before they leave your seat.

Area Covered

If someone wants to try out the look without fully going for it, you can recommend them just shaving one side 2 or 3 inches, rather than the entire side of the head.

The latest trend has been to shave one side of the head to the top, but remember to remind your clients there are many other options available to them.

Are You Interested in Becoming a Barber?

Does barbering sound like something you’d be interested in? If yes, we at Evergreen School can help you achieve your dreams of becoming a barber. Our cosmetology program teaches and supports the fundamentals of successful barbering. Whether you want to work as a barber or own your own barber shop we will provide you with the education necessary to guarantee your success in the beauty industry.