The Best Way To Cut A Neckline (Navigating Cowlicks)
Cutting a neckline might seem simple, but it can actually be tricky when dealing with cowlicks and irregular hair growth patterns. Many people opt for square or rounded necklines, but these shapes can end up fighting against the natural direction your hair grows in. So in this post, I’ll show you the best way to navigate cowlicks and create a neckline that grows out naturally, no matter the hair texture or pattern.
In the video above you can watch me demonstrate the tips mentioned in this post.
Why square and rounded necklines aren’t the best options
Square and rounded hairlines aren’t typically ideal for most heads of hair, unless the hair naturally grows in this shape. This is because when you cut a square or round shape into the neckline, you’re actually fighting the natural pattern of hair growth.
So as soon as this hair begins to grow out, it often looks terrible because it doesn’t blend into the rest of the cut. I often stand behind someone in line just starring at their growing out neckline because I badly want to fix it for them.
How to navigate cowlicks on the neckline
It’s not very common for a neckline to have hair that is all growing in the same direction. Most hairlines have cowlicks that cause the hair to grow in all different directions, which can become a problem for an even haircut.
It’s also not common that the hair grows evenly in one straight line across the neck. Most of the time the center of the neckline is higher than the left and right corners, and I commonly see W shapes in this area.
1. If the hair is short enough, taper it out
If you’re doing a clipper cut, then you’ll likely be able to taper the hairline completely out and blend it with the rest of the hair. This is ideal for anyone with a fade and it allows the hair to grow in much more naturally without needing cleaned up as frequently.
If you’re interested in learning how to taper a hairline, see my post here.
2. Follow the natural pattern of the neckline
If the hair is a scissor cut or isn’t quite a fade, you’ll want to follow the natural pattern of the neckline. This means pay attention to the direction that the hair is growing in.
Rather than combing the hair all straight down, take your comb and hold it in different directions based on the direction the hair is growing in.
You may need to cut some areas more while leaving other spots longer based on cowlicks and the way the hair is laying. Sometimes this requires some texturizing, point cutting, and customization.
3. Use thinning shears to weaken the cowlick
My favorite trick for weakening cowlicks is to use thinning shears. To do this, you’ll take your thinning shears right against the skin and cut into the cowlick. By removing some of the hairs, the cowlick will be weaker and easier to navigate.
Now this is a great method when working the neckline, but be very careful if you’re going to do this on the front hairline. While it will weaken the cowlick initially, the hairs may want to stand straight up when they begin to grow back in.
This is not usually an issue on the back neckline, but it could be problematic on the front of the hair.
4. Check the neckline dry
My last tip is to always check the neckline when it’s dry. Hair never lays the same way wet as it does dry, so you’ll need to finish your cut on dry hair.
Use your fingers to move the hair in all directions and check for anything that looks out of place or unblended.
Tools for cutting the perfect neckline on men
***Since I’m sharing the products that I love to use with you guys, this page includes affiliate links to these products. If you take action and purchase a product through clicking one of my links, I’ll make some commission money from it at no extra cost to you. This enables me to be able to continue giving you awesome hair tips, so thanks! ***
Conclusion
Creating the perfect neckline isn’t just about making a cut—it’s about working with your hair’s natural pattern so that it grows out well.
By following the natural shape of the hair, using the right tools, and checking your work on dry hair, you’ll be able to achieve a neckline that blends seamlessly and looks great as it grows out.
So, next time you’re cutting a neckline, keep these tips in mind to avoid common mistakes and ensure a flawless finish! And make sure to subscribe below if you want to make everyday a good hair day.
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