What Are Disconnected Layers

As a hairstylist it is a big part of your job to stay on top of all the latest trends. Let's talk layers and even more importantly, disconnected layers.

So what exactly are disconnected layers? Disconnected layers are considered more of a freehand layering style than your usual structured layered haircut. They're different from your typical layering techniques in that the interior and exterior are , you guessed it, disconnected! The disconnected layers involve creating certain sections and/or layers in the hair that don't blend into each other. Instead of the blend, the layers are purposely disconnected, resulting in a more textured and defined look.

A great current example is the shag cut which is becoming very popular. It's a versatile haircut with lots of texture and movement. It's a great cut to maintain your length but still have a huge amount of texture and volume.

Which clients can have disconnected layers

Unlike your classic layers, which you can make work for most clients' hair types, disconnected layers are not for everyone.

Disconnected layers work wonders for thick hair. This disconnected hairstyle removes a lot of weight and adds texture without having to texturize hair too much. You can use a razor to give this haircut even more texture and more movement. Because the internal layer is disconnected from the cut it is shorter, meaning that you can have more volume then your usual long layered cut.

Those with different textured hair can have this style. It can be made to work for wavy hair, straight hair, even curly hair. We just don't recommend this cut for clients with thin hair. This disconnected haircut can make thin and fine hair look stringy and even thinner. Which is something fine haired clients DON'T want.

How to do a disconnected layered haircut

There are many different ways to do a disconnected haircut, and for many different reasons. Now of course we cant list them all but ideally, to do a disconnected haircut usually requires a bit of personal judgement. Theres no rhyme or reason to a disconnected haircut its more of a 'where you see fit' type haircut.

If you're stuck though a typical standard disconnected haircut involves your standard layering steps but instead of joining all the layers up you can leave them - yep you guessed it! DISCONNECTED!

Just remember if your client has hair on the more fine side of things, do not over texture! You can add some face framing layers to help shape the cut more, have fun with it!

Finishing your cut

The disconnected layered hair haircut is meant to be a bit more fun and wild. After adding your finishing touches it's time to show your client how to style this masterpiece. Texture sprays and creams will help them recreate their look when they get home.

You've given your client an amazing, fun and funky style! We hope this quick tutorial has inspired you to try something new today !