When it comes to hair care and styling, people with a diverse range of hair textures can have trouble finding the right hairstyling and shaper tools. Here at The Cut Buddy, we know first-hand that working with high-quality tools that are still user-friendly can make all the difference in your home haircut experience. Because of this, we felt like today would be a good time to share some of our top recommendations for basic hair-cutting and styling tools. Whether you're aiming for a classic fade, a stylish afro, or intricate braids, this guide will explore the best tools and popular styling techniques to help you achieve professional-looking results.
Top Styling Tool and Technique Pairings
With home haircutting, having the right hairstyling and shaper tools at your disposal can make all the difference in achieving your desired look. There are a wide range of options to choose from, and the tools you use will vary depending on your hair type and preferred style. For example, clippers and trimmers are useful for precise cuts and fades, while wide-toothed combs are great for taming curly hair. Boar bristle brushes help distribute natural oils and promote shine, while edge control products keep your hairline sharp and defined. With these tools, you can master popular techniques like the fade, afro, slick back, and defined edge-up, ensuring that your hairstyle reflects your personal style and individuality. Let’s take a closer look at some useful tools and the popular techniques that can be achieved with them:
1. Clippers and Trimmers
For many people, clippers and trimmers are essential tools for maintaining a well-groomed hairstyle. Whether you're opting for a sharp fade, a buzz cut, or simply trimming your beard, these tools offer precision and versatility. Look for clippers with adjustable blades to achieve various lengths and consider trimmers with multiple attachments for added flexibility. The Cut Buddy All-Inclusive Trimming and Clipper Kit is a great value, as it features our best-selling clippers, trimmer, and accessories.
Popular Technique: The Fade - This classic technique involves creating a seamless transition from shorter hair at the sides and back to longer hair on top. Clippers with different guard sizes allow you to achieve the desired fade effect. Experiment with different fade styles, such as low, medium, or high fade, to determine your preference.
2. Wide-toothed Combs
Wide-toothed combs are ideal for those with thick, curly, or textured hair. These combs help to detangle hair gently without causing damage or breakage. Look for combs made from materials like wood or hard rubber, as they minimize static and friction while gliding through your hair smoothly.
Popular Technique: The Afro - Embracing natural curls and texture is always a good idea! To maintain an afro hairstyle, use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up. This will help preserve the natural shape and prevent excessive frizz. Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your hair moisturized and defined.
3. Boar Bristle Brushes
Boar bristle brushes are excellent for people with wavy or coarser hair types. These brushes distribute natural oils from the scalp throughout the hair, leaving the hair shiny and limiting the appearance of frizz. The brush bristles also help to stimulate the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth.
Popular Technique: The Slick Back - Achieving a sleek, polished look is made easier with a boar bristle brush. Apply a small amount of pomade or hair gel to your hair, then use the brush to smooth and style it back. This technique works well for both short and longer hairstyles, providing a sophisticated and timeless appearance.
4. Edge Control Products
Edge control products are essential for maintaining sharp and defined hairlines and edges. They help to tame flyaways and provide a clean, polished finish. We recommend looking for edge-control gels or pomades specifically formulated for people of color because they often have ingredients that cater to the unique needs of our textured hair.
Popular Technique: The Defined Edge Up - Use an edge control product and a small brush or comb to create clean, precise lines along your hairline and edges. This technique adds sharpness and structure to any hairstyle, be it a buzz cut or a longer, textured look.
Cut Your Own Hair with Confidence
Hairstyling and shaping tools play a significant role in achieving a quality home haircut, and understanding your hair type and texture is crucial in selecting the right products for your styling needs. Clippers and trimmers, wide-toothed combs, boar bristle brushes, and edge control products are among the essential tools to consider. By combining these tools with popular techniques like the fade, afro, slick back, and defined edge-up, you can elevate your style and showcase your unique personality.
For more tips and in-depth instructions on home haircuts, check out our blog. Our Most Popular Hairstyles for Different Hair Types has suggestions for all hair types, including thick hair, thinning/bald hair, and textured or coarse hair.
But remember, hair care is not one-size-fits-all. Experiment, embrace your natural texture, and have fun exploring different styles until you find the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. And don’t forget to check out the complete collection of haircut and shaving products that we offer here at The Cut Buddy. Our tools and products are designed by haircare experts, so you know you’re getting the best of the best, guaranteed.