Utah Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Questions and Study Guide

To achieve layered haircuts, a cutting angle of 45 degrees is typically recommended. This angle allows the stylist to lift the hair while cutting, creating a graduation effect that results in layers. The 45-degree angle strikes a balance between removing bulk and still maintaining enough length for the layers to blend seamlessly.

When cutting at this angle, the stylist can effectively create various styles, from subtle layers that add volume and movement to more pronounced layers for dramatic effects. This technique accommodates different hair types and lengths and enables the stylist to control the heaviness or lightness of the layers, ultimately enhancing the overall shape and dimension of the haircut.

Other angles, such as 30 degrees, 60 degrees, and 90 degrees, serve different purposes in haircutting techniques but do not effectively create the layered effect associated with a 45-degree cut.