caring for hair, skin and nails as we age

Getting a haircut is sort of a collaborative effort between you and your barber. Sure, they do all of the cutting — but it is your job to tell them what you want. And sometimes, that's harder than you might think. Knowing the following terms can make it easier to communicate with your barber and clearly express what you are looking for in a haircut.

Thin

If you ask your barber to thin your hair in a certain area, they are going to do use thinning shears that cut some of the hairs shorter, resulting in thinner ends. This can take away some of the volume in an area that you feel is too fluffy or too full.

Graduated or Stacked

These two terms really mean the same thing. They refer to a style where the hair is cut progressively shorter as you go up the head. This results in a style that makes the hair look like it's stacked. You may want to use these terms if you're getting a slightly longer style and want it to have some texture.

Choppy

Do you want a style that looks like you have distinct layers? Then ask for a choppy cut. Your stylist will make distinct cuts through larger chunks of hair at a time, resulting in very obvious layers.

Taper

A taper is when the hair gradually goes from long to short. You may ask for a cut that tapers toward the front of your head, which means it gets shorter at the front. You can also ask for a cut that tapers down the sides and is left longer on the top.

Grade

You may use the term "grade" if you are getting a buzz cut, or if your barber will use the clippers on the side of your head. Grade just refers to how close of a buzz you're getting. The lower the number, the closer the cut. So, for example, a grade one buzz is shorter than a grade two buzz.

Weight Line

The weight line is the part of the haircut where the hair is the thickest and heaviest. You may tell your barber you want the weight line a little higher or a little lower, which will guide where they decide to taper your cut.

Try using these terms the next time you get a haircut. Your stylist will appreciate the clear communication. Contact a salon for more information regarding haircut services.