Shear-Cut Shags: When to Use a Shear Versus a Razor

The shag haircut has taken on many iterations since its return to popularity the past few seasons. With shape, silhouette and finish being tailored to individual style, texture and color the tools used to get the look should also be chosen accordingly. When deciding between using a shear and a razor to get the iconic look, you might want to factor in a few very important details. If you missed the Facebook live, be sure to tune in HERE as Becka Bradshaw, Sam Villa Ambassador @beckabradshaw, highlights when and why to choose a shear versus a razor on Mannequin Monday.

“Shear-cut shags can look very similar, if not the same, as razor shags. Ultimately, it’s about mastery of the technique and understanding the hair type…I often use 3-4 shears in a single haircut to achieve the desired results,” explains Bradshaw.

Cutting Tips:

High-Lift Haircolor – Shear: - Use a Sam Villa Artist Series Shear and/or blending shear on high-lift hair color. It often has a compromised cuticle layer, so cutting with a shear allows the cuticle to remain intact, which strengthens hair strands by trimming away frayed and/or split ends.
Humid Environments/Seasons – Shear: In addition to anti-humidity products, shears make hair more invincible to humidity by keeping the cuticle intact. They cut a stronger blunter line, whereas razors bevel, removing some of the cuticle layer, which leaves hair more susceptible to humidity. When there’s a high concern for frizz, go for the shear.
Fine Hair – Razor: Use a Sam Villa Razor on fine hair or hair with an extremely compact cuticle. Fine and shiny hair can often benefit by the additional movement the bevelled edges of a razor create, adding needed texture and movement.
Natural Texture – Razor: Use a razor on natural texture to release and celebrate its character. Carving techniques with a guarded straight razor can often uncover waves and curls, as well as etch texture directly into the hair.

“Practicing texturizing shear techniques will benefit both you and your guests by allowing you to get similar results with different tools — so you will be able to confidently choose the best tools for every guest in every situation,” adds Bradshaw.