by When it comes to grooming, especially for men, hair clippers are an essential tool. However, many people overlook the importance of the lever on these devices. Understanding how to use hair clippers lever can be the difference between a great haircut and a complete disaster. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the functionality of the hair clippers lever, how to effectively use it, and grooming techniques that can enhance your hair-cutting experience.
Understanding the Hair Clippers Lever
The hair clippers lever is a crucial part of the equipment, often placed on the side of the clippers. Its main function is to adjust the length of the blade’s cut, allowing for precision in haircuts. This article will discuss how this lever works and its importance in achieving different hair lengths.
The Mechanism of the Lever
The lever adjusts the position of the clipper blade relative to the cutting guide. When the lever is up, it raises the blade, allowing for a longer cut. Conversely, when the lever is down, it lowers the blade, resulting in a shorter cut. This capability allows for gradual transitions and blending between different lengths, vital for creating seamless styles.
Why Use the Lever?
Using the hair clippers lever is pivotal for several reasons. Firstly, it helps you avoid the use of multiple guards, which can complicate the haircutting process. Secondly, it grants you fuller control over how much hair you want to cut away. This flexibility ensures that you can adapt to different hair growth patterns or preferences without having to stop and switch attachments frequently.
Techniques for Using the Hair Clippers Lever
1. Starting with Clean Hair
Before you even think about using the clippers, it’s essential to begin with clean hair. Clean hair allows for a smoother and more even cut. If the hair is dirty or greasy, the clippers may snag and tug, leading to an uneven haircut. Always wash and dry your hair before you begin cutting.
2. Preparing the Clippers
Once the hair is clean, it’s time to prepare your clippers. Ensure that they are charged if they are cordless or connected to power if they are corded. Next, check the blade for any dirt or hair and clean it if necessary. A well-maintained clipper will perform better and last longer.
3. Setting Up Your Workspace
An organized workspace can significantly enhance your cutting experience. Make sure you have a mirror, a cape to keep hair off your clothes, and a brush or comb handy to smooth out your hair before cutting. Additionally, keep a towel close by to clean up as needed.
4. Familiarizing Yourself with the Lever
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the hair clippers lever. Adjust it multiple times to gain confidence in how it operates. Practice moving it up and down to understand the effect it has on the blade’s position.
Practical Steps to Use Hair Clippers Lever
Step 1: Choose the Right Length Setting
To start, decide on the desired length for your haircut. If you’re unsure, begin by setting the lever to the longer cut position. This is a safe starting point, as you can always cut shorter, but if you cut too short at the beginning, there’s no going back.
Step 2: Begin Cutting with the Lever Up
Hold the clippers firmly and begin cutting your hair with the lever in the up position. Start from the back of your head and work your way towards the front. Use smooth, even strokes, and let the clippers do the work.
Step 3: Transitioning to Shorter Layers
As you progress, you may want to blend in shorter layers. Push the lever down slightly to reduce the cutting length. By transitioning the lever position during the cutting process, you can create a gradual fade between different lengths.
Step 4: Review and Adjust
Once you finish the initial pass over the hair, review the cut. Is there any unevenness? Are there areas that require blending? Use the lever to make appropriate adjustments, working carefully to refine your haircut.
Advanced Techniques for Mastering Hair Clippers Lever
Creating a Fade
A fade is a popular hairstyle where the hair gradually shortens from top to bottom. To create a seamless fade, you’ll need to use the hair clippers lever skillfully.
- Start with a Longer Guard: Begin with a longer guard on top.
- Use the Lever to Gradually Shorten: As you move down the sides and back of your head, adjust the lever downwards gradually. This helps create the fade effect.
- Use Clipper Over Comb Technique: You can combine the clipper lever use with the clipper over comb technique. This involves using a comb to lift sections of hair and cut with the clippers above the comb.
Blending and Texturizing
In addition to fading, the clippers lever allows for blending and texturizing techniques. Here’s how:
- Use the Lever for Small Adjustments: When cutting, make small adjustments with the lever to alter the length slightly as you go.
- Texturizing: You can also use the clipper’s blade with the lever up or down to create texture on the ends of the hair, helping to avoid blunt cuts.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Cutting Too Short
Many novice users tend to push the lever down too quickly, resulting in hair that is cut shorter than intended. To avoid this mistake, always start with the lever in the up position. You can always cut more later, but starting short can lead to an undesirable outcome.
2. Inconsistent Pressure
Applying inconsistent pressure while cutting can lead to an uneven haircut. It’s crucial to maintain even pressure throughout the cutting process. This will help the clippers glide smoothly through the hair, resulting in a more uniform cut.
3. Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Clippers require regular maintenance to perform well. Failing to clean blades can lead to tugging and snagging during cutting. Always clean the blades after use and oil them regularly.
The Importance of Practicing with the Lever
As with any skill, practice is vital when learning how to use hair clippers lever effectively. Encourage yourself to practice on different hair types and styles to become more adept at using the lever for your desired results. Over time, you will feel more comfortable adjusting the lever mid-cut, allowing for more complex styles.
Practicing on Friends or Family
Once you’ve honed your skills on yourself, consider practicing on friends or family members. This real-world experience will provide you with the confidence you need to manipulate the lever effectively while adapting to various hair types and styles.
When to Consider Professional Help
Knowing Your Limitations
Sometimes, despite best efforts, a haircut can go wrong. If you feel out of your depth, it’s wise to consult a professional barber to rectify your mistakes.
Specialized Styles
For intricate styles such as fades or designs, professional expertise may be preferred due to their experience and additional techniques.
Conclusion: Mastering the Use of Hair Clippers Lever
Learning how to use hair clippers lever is an essential skill for anyone interested in hair grooming. This lever allows for versatility, enabling you to create a range of styles, from a simple trim to intricate fades and blended cuts. By understanding how the lever works, preparing accordingly, and practicing your techniques, you can take your grooming game to the next level. Mastering hair clippers means mastering the lever, making your haircutting experience smoother and more enjoyable in the long run. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more comfortable you become with your clippers, the more confident you’ll be in your cutting abilities.
