What technique is used to blend hair when cutting layers?

Point cutting is a technique specifically designed to blend hair when cutting layers. This method involves using the tips of the shears to cut into the ends of the hair at an angle, which softens the lines where different lengths meet. This is particularly effective in creating a seamless transition between layers, as it reduces bulk and creates a more textured look without altering the overall length significantly.

The technique allows for a more natural appearance, while ensuring that the layers blend smoothly into one another, which is crucial for styles that require depth and dimension. Point cutting also helps to minimize any harsh lines that may result from blunt cuts, allowing for a softer, more organic finish that enhances the overall style.

In contrast, clipper cutting is typically used for achieving uniform lengths or specific styles like fades and buzz cuts. Razor cutting can create a textured effect but is less about blending and more focused on the edge of the hair. Slide cutting is also a blending technique, but it generally involves sliding the shears along the hair shaft to remove weight and create softer edges. Each of these alternatives has its own place in haircutting, but point cutting specifically excels in achieving the blend desired in layered hairstyles.