How To Cut A Mens Hairline (3 Different Ways)

Men have different preferences when it comes to having their hairline cut. There are generally 3 different ways to shape a neckline based on what kind of style they are going for, as well as how their hair grows in on the back of their neck.

Typically, I suggest choosing the option that grows out best based on how their hair grows on their hairline. This is going to give the most longevity out of their cut, as well as the most natural appearance.

If you choose a hairline style that is unnatural against the shape of their natural neckline, it will usually be extremely obvious when it grows out and need cut again within 2 weeks.

Below, I’ve linked my Youtube video demonstration on how to create each of these different shaped hairlines. This was my very first Youtube video that I ever created, so please excuse the poor quality! I made it in March of 2020 during the lockdown so women could cut their husbands hair at home.

1. The square hairline

The square hairline features prominent edges and sharp lines across the width of the neck. This is the harshest, most blunt looking neckline option. Because of the width, it can potentially slim down the appearance of an already wide neck, making it look a little thinner. Remember that hair can conceal. So the more hair kept back here, the more it will reduce the appearance of the neck.

To create this look, using trimmers follow the shape of the hairline behind the ear completely straight all the way down to the tip of the hairline. You’ll do this on either side, and then create a blunt and straight line connecting one side to the other.

Make sure that he sits very still and looks forward and slightly down while performing this part of the haircut.

2. The round hairline

The rounded hairline features curves and softer rounded edges. Since the sharp corners are cut off, this hairline shape can make a thin neck appear larger due to removing excess hair on the corners. This is a softer look than the square neckline listed above.

To create this look, you’ll begin by following the line down behind the ear using trimmers, but stopping before you get to the bottom of the neckline. You’ll then start in the center of the neckline in the back, bringing the line towards the edges and stopping before you get to the corner. Lastly, you’ll curve the trimmers to bring the two lines together, creating a rounded corner. Be sure to match the other side.

You’ll also want to make sure that your model sits still during this step with his head facing forward looking slightly down.

3. The tapered hairline

The tapered hairline is the softest, most natural looking hairline of them all. It grows out the best and will last much longer before needing to be cut again. That being said, it is a bit shorter than the other hairlines, and if the client likes to keep his hair longer, than this won’t necessarily be a good fit. I recommend not doing this hairline if the hair is kept longer than a #3 or #4.

To create this neckline, be sure to cut the hair in the back to the desired length; equal to or shorter than a #4 clipper guard. Use your trimmers to remove any excess hair that falls below the hairline. You’ll then switch to using clippers and open the blade on your clippers to create a 1/2 size guard. Notice we are using clippers for this look instead of trimmers like the last two neckline options. This is to create the faded appearance of the hairline.

With the clipper blades open to a 1/2, slowly begin tapering in the hairline using scooping movements. Make sure to not go further than 1 inch into the hairline. Use a comb to blend the hairline into the rest of the hair. Cut very small amounts of hair at a time to be sure you don’t take too much off.

If you need to, you can also use a #1 guard to help you blend the hairline into the rest of the hair. Watch my Youtube video above if you need help. For this hairline, I like to move my clients head around based on the area I’m currently working on. I will often turn his head at an angle to stretch the skin to get the cleanest cut.

Recommended tools to cut mens hair

***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! ***

My favorite brand for clippers and trimmers is Wahl. My Wahl tools have always been reliable and never let me down. Below I’ve linked both the clippers and the trimmers I used to create these hairlines in the Youtube video. They are both wireless making it easy and portable.

I’ll also list some high quality, but not overly expensive haircutting shears.

• Wahl Professional Magic Clippers
• Wahl Professional Sterlling Mag Trimmers
• JW Shear, Thinner, Texturizier Combo

Conclusion

There are 3 main ways that you can cut a mans hairline. You can choose based on personal preference, or the longevity of the hairline style.

The squared hairline has prominent edges and stark lines. This will reduce a wide neckline by concealing it with hair on the corners.

The rounded hairline has curved and softer edges. This can make a thin neck appear wider by exposing more of the neck on the corners.

And the tapered hairline is faded completely out. This hairline lasts the longest and grows out seamlessly. That being said, it’s not recommended on hair that is cut longer than a #4 clipper guard.

I highly recommend watching my Youtube video demonstration above if you’re going to attempt one of these necklines!

If you found this helpful, check out my mens hair and beard guide here.

Leave any questions you have for me in the comments, and be sure to subscribe below to make everyday a good hair day!