If you want to trip your hair at home or are a professional hairdresser, you'll need to get a hair clipper. If you're a beginner you need to research the model of clippers you want to get and then slowly start learning how the wanted model works.
No matter if you go for cordless or corded hair clippers, here are some basic features you should consider checking.
Check the Motor
The hair-clipper motor is comparable to the engine of a car, as it works as a powerhouse. Choosing a powerful motor is a great idea since it gives an efficient clipper that has a longer lifespan, however, at a higher cost. There are three types of hair-clipper motors: magnetic, rotary, and pivot.
Pivot motors are ideal for cutting thick, heavy, and wet hair at a slower pace.
Magnetic motors, on the other hand, are associated with high-speed cutting clippers that are suitable for trimming voluminous hair without any fuss.
Lastly, rotary motors are the most versatile, durable, and powerful, capable of cutting both wet and dry hair at a reasonable speed.
Maneuverability
Some clippers come with cords, while others are cordless. The advantage of cordless clippers lies in their unrestricted maneuverability without the limitations of wires. On the other hand, choosing corded hair clippers has its perks since you can use them while charging, while their cordless counterparts need to be recharged once they run out of power. This may result in operational interruptions or delays.
If you need a clipper that's available at all times, always choose corded clippers. Cordless ones are easier to pack (although the corded ones aren't significantly larger) and allow you to take them even to areas of your home where there isn't a power outlet. You can also use them outdoors on your balcony or backyard.
Durability
When choosing a hair clipper, it's advisable to research the type of housing material the manufacturer uses. Certain clippers feature durable ABS housing that can endure both stress and heat. On the other hand, other clippers are constructed with inexpensive plastic that is prone to breakage upon impact. Additionally, plastic shells can become uncomfortably hot during prolonged use.
Choose Your Blades Wisely
Blade clippers are available in various sizes and materials. There are primarily two types of blade materials: ceramic and steel. Steel blades are known for their durability, although they tend to heat up quickly when used with high-speed motors. On the other hand, ceramic blades are more delicate but retain their sharpness for a longer period.
Also, ceramic blades are generally more expensive compared to their steel counterparts. However, they have the advantage of staying cool even when used with clippers that have the highest-speed motors. It's important to ensure that your clipper is equipped with the appropriate blade sizes for your needs. This is because certain haircuts may be unattainable without the correct blade size. For instance, a blade size 1 is considered ideal for achieving a buzz cut. Additionally, if you lead a busy lifestyle, it's recommended to opt for haircutters that feature self-sharpening blades.
Guided Combs
No matter if you're going to use the clippers for your needs or clients, it's good to have several guide combs. These attachments encompass cutting lengths ranging from 1.5 mm to 13 mm, allowing for precise tapering, removal, texturizing, and blending of hair as per individual preferences.
Consider Your Hair Clippig Skills
When purchasing a clipper for hair clipping, it's important to consider your level of experience and skill. Manufacturers often label their models as either "Professional" or "Beginner", indicating the level of expertise required to operate them. For those new to hair clipping, it's recommended to choose a clipper rated for beginners, as they are typically easier to use and operate.
A Few Tips to Use the Clippers
Familiarize yourself with your hair clippers; this includes turning them on and off, getting a sense of their weight in your hand, finding the most comfortable grip, and charging them if they are cordless. If your electric hair clippers have clip-on combs of different cutting lengths, select the one that suits your needs and attach it to the clippers. Additionally, if your model offers speed options, choose the setting that you feel most comfortable cutting at. Moving on to step two, make sure to prepare a designated area for the hair-cutting process.
Prepare a Space for Hair Cutting
Be sure that you have a convenient location for haircutting that's easy to clean, such as a bathroom, kitchen, or garden. If you choose to cut hair indoors, have a vacuum or sweeping brush nearby to collect any stray hairs and prevent them from being tracked throughout your home.
Wash and Dry Your Hair
Start by washing your hair as you typically do, with a shampoo and conditioner; if it's not washed, you risk obstructing your clippers with grease and residual hairstyling products. Keep in mind not to cut wet hair. Twel-dry your hair and, if necessary, comb it to eliminate any knots or tangles, especially if your hair is longer or thicker.
The Cutting
Begin by cutting the sides of your hair against the direction of growth, starting from the bottom and moving upwards. If necessary, go over the same area to ensure all hair is cut to the desired length. Next, move to the back of your head and continue cutting in an upward direction, checking for longer areas and using a mirror if needed. Finally, if you are not going for an all-over cut, use a comb to brush the hair on top of your head in small sections and cut along the line of the comb's teeth.
