Delaware Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam

What is the proper angle to hold hair shears for creating layers?

1. 30 degrees

2. 45 degrees

3. 60 degrees

4. 90 degrees

The correct answer is: 45 degrees

Holding hair shears at a 45-degree angle is essential for creating layers because this angle allows for an effective blending of hair lengths. When cutting at 45 degrees, the stylist can achieve soft, graduated effects, which contribute to movement and shape in the hairstyle. This angle prevents the hair from appearing choppy or blunt, offering a more natural and seamless look as layers are built up. Utilizing a 45-degree angle also provides more control and precision during the cutting process. It encourages a technique that respects the natural fall of the hair, allowing for a gentle transition from longer to shorter lengths. This is particularly beneficial for adding volume or texture, making it a favored approach among many professionals in the field. Other angles, while they may have their uses, would not yield the same soft layering effect in hair design as effectively as the 45-degree angle.