In this simple how-to video, Traci Sakosits, North American Creative Director for Sassoon Academies, flawlessly demonstrates the Pareto Principle: The 80/20 Rule means that in any set of things a few (20%) are vital and many (80%) are considered trivial.
The principle – applied in the case of cutting hair the Sassoon way – is that the final 20% of work during the definition and finish phase will produce 80% of the result, giving the look its individuality and helping to train the eyes to see detail. Read on to discover how to achieve a technically on-point finish using Pareto’s 80/20 principle – plus learn how to implement a precise scissor over comb technique.
Steps 1-3 represent the bulk of the work, or 80%, while steps 4-8 (which are depicted in the video) represent the finishing work, or 20%.
Step 1: Establish the basic shape; this includes optimal length and internal proportions.
Step 2: Cross check for precision.
Step 3: Graduate the external length into the internal lengths, working through the fingers.
Step 4: Achieve precision when working scissor over comb.
- Scissor and comb move in unison.
- Work parallel to the hairline.
- Work in vertical channels from the hairline, up.
- Work both visually and technically.
- Once done, the hair should appear velvety in texture.
Step 5: Blow dry the hair with a Vess brush.
Step 6: Graduate and refine the lines to include the fringe. Graduation in the fringe area is achieved by following these simple techniques.
- Work over the head to achieve an even tension across the forehead.
- Draw a line with the tip of the scissor.
- The graduation on the edge of the hair creates a geometric look that settles onto the skin.
Step 7: The final definition is done with the smallest comb, to further graduate and fade the hairline.
Remember - the last 20% gives you 80% of the result – and a strong finished look is dependent upon your ability to pay attention to the details.
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