Fringes, or bangs as they’re often called, have made a huge comeback in recent years. From airy curtain bangs to wispy micro-fringes, there’s something undeniably fresh and stylish about framing your face with a fringe. But one particular type has been stealing the spotlight: the textured fringe.
A textured fringe adds softness, movement, and personality to a haircut. It works with straight, wavy, or curly hair, and unlike blunt bangs, it doesn’t demand the same kind of upkeep. But here’s the truth—while fringes look great, cutting them the right way is where most people (even budding hairstylists) get nervous. That’s why I reached out to hairstylists and leaned on years of behind-the-chair experiences to put together this guide. If you’ve ever wondered how to cut a textured fringe without making it look choppy or uneven, this is for you.
What Is a Textured Fringe?
Let’s start with the basics. A textured fringe is a softer, layered version of bangs. Instead of cutting the hair in one blunt, straight line, stylists use different techniques like point cutting, slide cutting, or razor cutting to remove weight and add movement. This creates a lived-in, natural look where pieces of hair fall slightly differently each time—almost like it’s perfectly imperfect.
Think of celebrities like Alexa Chung, Dakota Johnson, or Zendaya at certain red-carpet events. Their fringes never look stiff. Instead, the bangs blend seamlessly into the rest of their hairstyle, which is exactly the beauty of a textured fringe.
Why Choose a Textured Fringe?
Most people hesitate before cutting bangs because they fear regret. But textured fringes are much more forgiving than blunt bangs. Here’s why hairstylists recommend them:
- Low-maintenance: Because the ends are feathered, it grows out gracefully without looking too heavy or uneven.
- Face-framing: Works on almost any face shape because you can adjust length and texture.
- Styling flexibility: Looks equally good air-dried, blow-dried, or styled with hot tools.
- Adds movement: Great for hair that feels flat or heavy at the front.
One stylist told me, “Textured fringes are like makeup for your haircut—they highlight features without overpowering them.”
Tools You’ll Need
Before diving in, gather the right tools. A stylist wouldn’t step onto the salon floor without them, and you shouldn’t either.
- Sharp haircutting scissors (never kitchen scissors!)
- Sectioning clips
- Fine-tooth comb
- Spray bottle with water
- Hairdryer and round brush (optional)
- Razor (for advanced texturizing)
Step-by-Step Guide: How Hairstylists Cut a Textured Fringe
Here’s where we get practical. Cutting a textured fringe requires patience and precision, but with the right method, you can achieve salon-level results.
1. Start with Clean, Dry, or Slightly Damp Hair
Most stylists prefer to cut fringes on dry hair because hair shrinks as it dries. If you cut it wet, you might end up with a fringe that’s way shorter than planned.
- If you’re new, err on the side of caution: cut longer first. You can always go shorter later.
2. Section the Hair Properly
Take a triangle section at the front of the head. The point of the triangle should be at the highest point of your head (usually around the crown), and the base runs along your hairline above the eyebrows.
- The size of the triangle determines how thick your fringe will be. For a light, wispy fringe, keep it narrow. For a heavier one, widen the triangle.
3. Decide on the Length
Length is everything with a fringe.
- For a classic textured fringe, aim for just above the brows.
- For a longer curtain-style fringe, let it hit around cheekbone level.
- For a soft, wispy look, keep it grazing just below the brows.
4. Use Point Cutting for Texture
Instead of cutting straight across, stylists use a method called point cutting.
- Hold small sections of the fringe between your fingers.
- Point the scissors vertically and snip into the ends.
- This breaks up the line, creating softness and natural movement.
5. Blend into the Sides
A good fringe never looks disconnected. To avoid that “helmet” look:
- Take diagonal sections at the corners of the fringe and gently point cut downwards.
- This allows the fringe to melt into the layers of the rest of the haircut.
6. Check Balance and Adjust
Step back from the mirror. A textured fringe should look soft, even, and natural. Don’t obsess over perfection—the whole charm is in its lived-in vibe.
7. Add Extra Texture (Optional)
Advanced stylists sometimes use a razor for added feathering. If you’re a beginner, stick with scissors until you’re confident.
Hairstylists’ Pro Tips
- Cut longer than you think. You can always trim more later, but you can’t add length back.
- Work in good lighting. A shadowy bathroom isn’t the place to cut precision layers.
- Consider hair texture. Fine hair benefits from minimal thinning, while thick hair may need more texturizing.
- Maintenance trims are key. A textured fringe looks its best when refreshed every 4–6 weeks.
Styling a Textured Fringe
Cutting the fringe is only half the story—styling brings it to life. Here’s what stylists swear by:
- Blow-dry forward: Use a round brush to guide the hair down and slightly to the sides.
- Add texture spray or dry shampoo: This keeps the fringe airy and prevents it from clumping.
- Flat iron touch: A quick pass at the ends can help control stubborn strands.
- Hands over tools: Sometimes the best styling comes from scrunching and separating the fringe with your fingers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even pros sometimes get it wrong. Here are mistakes hairstylists say to watch out for:
- Cutting too much at once
- Forgetting to check hair shrinkage
- Making the fringe too thick for the client’s hair density
- Cutting straight across instead of point cutting
- Not blending the sides properly
How to Maintain a Textured Fringe
The beauty of a textured fringe is that it grows out naturally, but it still needs some care:
- Regular trims: Every 4–6 weeks to keep shape.
- Dry shampoo: Helps extend time between washes and adds volume.
- Avoid heavy products: Waxes and creams weigh it down. Stick to sprays or lightweight mousses.
Who Should Avoid a Textured Fringe?
Textured fringes are versatile, but they’re not for everyone.
- If you have extremely cowlick-prone hair, you might struggle to keep the fringe in place.
- If you dislike daily styling, a fringe may feel like a chore.
- If you have super curly hair, you’ll need a stylist skilled in curly cuts to make it work.
Hairstylist Anecdotes
One stylist I spoke with said, “I once had a client who wanted a blunt fringe, but after seeing how her hair grew, I suggested a textured one instead. She came back three months later and thanked me—it had grown out so seamlessly that she never had that awkward phase.”
Another shared, “The number one mistake I see from DIY fringe cuts? People pulling the hair too tight while cutting. That’s why it springs back way shorter than they expected.”
These little real-life lessons are what keep textured fringes from becoming hair disasters.
FAQs about Cutting a Textured Fringe
Q1. Can I cut a textured fringe at home, or should I see a stylist?
You can cut a textured fringe at home if you’re careful and use professional scissors, but hairstylists recommend visiting a salon. Because fringes frame your face, even a small mistake can be very noticeable.
Q2. How do I know if a textured fringe will suit my face shape?
Textured fringes are adaptable and can be customized to suit almost any face shape. Oval and heart-shaped faces suit most variations, while round faces often look better with longer, sweeping fringes that help elongate features.
Q3. How often should I trim a textured fringe?
A trim every 4–6 weeks is ideal to maintain the shape of your textured fringe. This prevents it from getting too heavy or falling into your eyes.
Q4. What’s the difference between blunt bangs and textured fringes?
Blunt bangs are cut straight across for a bold, dramatic look, while textured fringes are cut with techniques like point cutting to add softness and movement. Textured fringes also tend to grow out more gracefully.
Q5. Which products work best with a textured fringe?
Lightweight styling sprays, sea salt sprays, and dry shampoos work best with a textured fringe. Heavy products like waxes or gels should be avoided since they can make the fringe look flat or greasy.
